US first lady ignores Trump criticism, shuns headscarf upon arrival in Saudi Arabia

US first lady, Melania Trump has ignored president Donald Trump’s past admonition, by not wearing a head scarf when the first couple arrived in Saudi Arabia on the opening leg of his first international tour since taking office in January.

Recall that two years ago, Trump, then a citizen criticised then-first lady Michelle Obama’s decision to go bareheaded on a January 2015 visit with her husband and former president of the US, Barrack Obama.

“Many people are saying it was wonderful that Mrs. Obama refused to wear a scarf in Saudi Arabia, but they were insulted. We have enuf enemies,” Trump tweeted at the time, including a shorthand spelling for “enough.”

2015: President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama stand with new Saudi King Salman bin Abdul Aziz they arrive on Air Force One at King Khalid International Airport, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Picture: Carolyn Kaster) Source:AP

Under the kingdom’s strict dress code for women, Saudi women and most female visitors are required to wear a loose, black robe known as an abaya, in public. Most women in Saudi Arabia also cover their hair and face with a veil known as the niqab.

Trump’s daughter, Ivanka, a senior White House adviser who is also accompanying her father, also left her head uncovered.

White House senior adviser Jared Kushner, right, walks with Ivanka Trump at the Royal Court Palace. Picture: Evan Vucci Source:AP