Saudi TV presenter flees kingdom amid probe into 'indecent clothes'

A Saudi TV presenter has left the kingdom, shortly after the broadcasting authority said it will launch an investigation into her dress code violations in the conservative kingdom.

The General Commission for Audiovisual Media announced the investigation after a video circulated on social media showing Shereen al-Rifaie filming a report on Saudi women driving in the kingdom.

In the clip, she is wearing clothing that violate regulations in the kingdom: a loose scarf with a white abaya, a traditional dress, which was open, showing her trousers and blouse beneath it.

The commission said the investigation will proceed despite al-Rifaie leaving the country. She works for the Al-Aan TV station from the United Arab Emirates.

The video caused a social media uproar as users launched the hashtag "a naked woman driving in Riyadh" in Arabic.

She dismissed the accusations, telling the Saudi news website Ajel: "I was wearing decent clothes and God will reveal the truth of what has been said about me."

Saudi Arabia is known for its strict interpretation of Islam. Women must cover their hair and wear long loose clothes.    (dpa)