The President of the United States touched down in Saudi Arabia over the weekend, with First Lady Melania Trump at his side.
The visit marks the start of Trump’s first international tour since taking office, with all eyes on Melania as she stepped off the plane.
Many were surprised to see that the First Lady, who wore a black pantsuit with patent stilettos and a wide golden belt, entered the country with her head uncovered – especially given that two years ago Trump criticised Michelle Obama for doing exactly that.
“Many people are saying it was wonderful that Mrs. Obama refused to wear a scarf in Saudi Arabia, but they were insulted. We have enuf enemies,” Trump tweeted at the time, including short-hand spelling for “enough.”
According to Islamic custom, women in Saudi Arabia – including visitors – are ordinarily required to cover their hair, however, high-level visitors are exempt from the strict dress code.
British Prime Minister Teresa May, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, then-First Lady Michelle Obama and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton all chose not to wear hijabs or headscarves during their visits to the country.
It seems Melania was following the lead of these high-profile women with her outfit choice, which, though didn’t include a headscarf, met the standards for acceptably modest attire.
Ivanka Trump, who was visiting alongside her father and stepmother, also stepped out in a conservative outfit, sans headscarf.
