Saudi Arabia denies it had imported Santa costume

Saudi Arabia has denied media reports about importing Christmas trees and Santa's costumes.

The Saudi Arabia's Tax and Customs Administration announced that the importation of Christmas trees is prohibited or any other religious sign other than Islam.

The announcement came in response to a Twitter user's question if the import of Christmas trees is now allowed in the kingdom.

Foreign media reported earlier that Santa's Christmas trees, decorations and clothing are now being sold into stores in Saudi Arabia.

Foreign Christians working in Saudi Arabia, mainly from Lebanon and the Philippines, have been taught to celebrate closed - door Christmas.

This country has experienced rapid social, cultural and economic changes in recent years initiated by Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Anatolia reports.