The woman, who works in a hospital in the Assir region, appears to have been complaining about a work-related issue in the 10-second video during which she made the offensive hand gesture.

The video went viral on social media platforms, prompting authorities to take action.

The nurse was subsequently suspended by the General Directorate of Health Affairs in the Assir governorate in line with the kingdom's disciplinary code, local news site Sabaq reported.

The woman, who wore the niqab in the video and whose identity remained hidden, is expected to face further investigation over the clip.

The move in the highly conservative kingdom left many on social media divided over whether the nurse deserves to be suspended or if the issue was too trivial.

The video

[Translation: Saudi health authority suspends female nurse in a Assir hospital and refers her for investigation over a video which dishonours the profession.]

A private moment

[Translation: The clip is clearly taken from her private Snapchat account and published by someone on her friends list. This is why you cant trust anyone, even your own relatives! Not every reaction can be filmed and shared on these platforms!]



A state of anger

[Translation: I think they should forgive her because she was clearly angry and I am sure she will apologise]

The right move

[Translation: The health ministry's decision to suspend an ill-mannered nurse is right. They should terminate her contract too!]