Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, criminal penalties are based on Shariah, and same-sex sexual activity is prohibited with a maximum punishment of death. People suspected of homosexuality, as well as trans women, have been arrested, detained, tortured, and prosecuted based on morality-related grounds, such as “cross-dressing,” “offenses against Islam,” “attacks against public morals,” and “encouraging or promoting homosexuality.” There have been several known executions for same-sex intimacy, but most of these cases involve additional criminal charges, such as terrorism, child abuse, rape, or murder, and it is often unclear whether “sodomy” is used as an aggravating factor or arbitrarily added by authorities. In 2019, the state security agency published a video categorizing feminism and homosexuality as “extremist ideas” and criminal acts punishable by prison and flogging.

Freedom of expression, assembly, and association is heavily restricted in the country. Saudi Arabia censors materials that it considers to be contrary to religious values or public morals, and has arrested persons publishing queer-affirming content. In 2025, a film was banned in Saudi Arabia because it featured a gay actor. The country prohibits rainbow-colored toys, clothing, and other items, claiming that they send a “poisoned message” to children. Outright has not identified any LGBTIQ organization operating in the country.

Saudi Arabia has at times attempted to project a queer-friendly image. In May 2023, it updated its official tourist website to state that it welcomed LGBT travelers. In 2024, the head of Saudi Arabia’s 2034 World Cup bid unit also announced that “the LGBTQ community” would be “hosted with open arms and open hearts” as long as they “respected the law of privacy.” No assurances in writing have been provided.