Saudi Personal Status Law draws a clear legal distinction between mahr (dowry) and engagement gifts. Under Article 3, anything given by either party during the engagement period is treated as a gift by default — unless the giver explicitly states it is mahr, or local custom (urf) treats such items as part of the mahr.
The mahr is a specific financial entitlement that belongs exclusively to the wife as part of the marriage contract itself (Article 6 frames marriage as a contract establishing rights and duties between spouses). If the groom transfers money or property to his fiancée before the wedding contract is signed and labels it as mahr, Article 5 protects his right — or his heirs' right — to recover it if the engagement is broken off or if he dies before the marriage takes place. Recovery is in kind if the asset still exists, or by equivalent value or the value at the time of receipt if it does not.
Practical takeaway for expats: If you are giving items of significant value before your wedding and you intend them to be part of the mahr rather than a gift, say so explicitly — and put it in writing. Conversely, if you are receiving such items, understand that mahr may be recoverable by the giver if the marriage does not proceed. When in doubt, consult a Saudi-licensed lawyer to structure pre-wedding financial arrangements clearly.
This is general legal information, not legal advice. For advice on your specific situation, consult a lawyer licensed in Saudi Arabia.