Saudi Arabia to ban unlicensed art exhibitions

, Jan 13:

will impose a ban on holding arts and photography exhibitions, without permission from the interior and culture ministries, a media report said.

"The decision was made to prevent violations at those exhibitions, including paintings that have sexual connotations or abuse against religious and political figures," reported Xinhua, citing Saud Al Shikhi of the Mecca branch of the Culture Ministry in a local daily.

He said that the items will be reviewed and approved by senior artists, before being displayed.

Saudi Arabia is one of the few countries around the world that implement Islamic regulations (Shari'a) in almost all walks of life, including penalties.

IANS