Judicial System

Judicial System in Saudi Arabia
passing his judgments, to rely neither on his own personal
knowledge nor on assumptions contrary to his personal
knowledge.
In Saudi Arabia, there is no obstacle as to enacting a
law setting conditions for commenting on judicial rulings
in accordance with objective, scientific and legal controls
maintaining standing and independence of the judiciary,
and at the same time respecting freedom of opinion and
expression. This shall not be considered as tantamount to
restricting freedom of opinion and expression if meant to
preserve public interest. Otherwise, the judiciary or public
prosecution shall be given the right to prohibit publication
with respect to certain cases or rulings where public interest
requires that – this is the case in most countries.
In light of the foregoing, it is obvious the weakness of
the legal grounds of absolute prohibition of publication of
commentary on courts’ rulings or on matters pending before
courts, and generally speaking, permission is the norm while
prohibition or incrimination is permitted upon deviation
from exercising the freedom of opinion and expression and
constructive criticism and where commentary comprises
blaspheming, defamation, insult or libel.
Freedom of religion and freedom of opinion: Article (18)
of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights provides that,
“everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience
and religion; this right includes freedom to change his
religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community
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