Saudi Arabia finally allows unmarried couples to rent hotel rooms

The unmarried couples will be able to rent hotel rooms in Saudi Arabia together, under a new visa regime proclaimed by the conservative kingdom. Women will also be allowed to stay alone.

So far, couples had to testify that they were married before entering hotel rooms.

This government move is due to Saudi Arabia's effort to expand its tourism industry.

Couples so far were obliged to file documents that prove they are married, but these rules have been changed for foreigners.

New visa rules require that tourist women not be fully covered, but are still expected to be covered modestly.

With a long reputation as one of the most severe countries in the world, Saudi Arabia is trying to soften its image in the eyes of tourists and foreign investors, Kosovas broadcasts.