mo4ch:>So much for reform & tolerance: Saudis open to ridicule over Christmas tree ban memo | Mo4ch News

Saudi Arabia faced ridicule online after it reminded the international community of its strict ban on Christmas tree imports and celebrations ahead of the holiday season, despite its much-touted liberal reforms and social changes.The Kingdom’s customs authority has warned citizens and guests that Christmas trees are still banned from entering the ultra-conservative state. Moreover, all state institutions, companies, hotels and restaurants are mandated by the Committee for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice to avoid any possible manifestations of the holiday spirit.Also on rt.comSaudi woman banned from marrying her beau because he ‘played musical instrument’Many Twitter users found such an approach amusing and puzzling, especially as the Kingdom attempts to amend its image through a series of liberal reforms under the patronage of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.“Where is the tolerance that the state is discussing with the international community?” @FawziahAlamri wondered…