US Edition Saudi Arabia has banned the importation of female dolls and teddy bears, giving merchants three months to dispose of such stock, said a state-controlled newspaper yesterday.
Prince Nayef, the interior minister, ordered the ban which was relayed around the country by the national Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said Al-Riyadh.
The daily gave no reason for the ban, which could not be confirmed with government officials.
The edict singled out stuffed-animal toys and female dolls, but it was not clear whether male dolls were included. The order also prohibited importation of crucifixes and models of Buddha, said the newspaper. The ban came as Saudi Arabia seemed to be moving toward moderation and some reform.
The kingdom was heavily criticised after September 11 because 15 of the 19 hijackers were Saudis. Critics said its conservative interpretation of Islam had helped produce militants. The government later gave directives to mosque preachers, amended religious books and promised local elections - a first for a country that has no parliament.