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Saudi Arabia agrees to let women drive & attend football games [Update Post #25]

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Syed1

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An outspoken billionaire Saudi prince wants an “urgent” end to his country's ban on women driving, saying overturning the law was a matter of women's rights and economic necessity.

“Stop the debate: Time for women to drive,” Prince Alwaleed bin Talal said on his official Twitter account, [MENTION=62997]alwa[/MENTION]leed_Talal.

Alwaleed is an unusually outspoken member of the Saudi royal family who holds no political posts but chairs Kingdom Holding Co., which has interests including US banking giant Citigroup and the Euro Disney theme park.

He is a longtime advocate of women's rights in the kingdom, which has some of the world's tightest restrictions on women and is the only country where they are not allowed to drive.

In conjunction with his short tweet, Alwaleed's office issued an unusually long statement late Tuesday outlining his reasons for supporting an end to the ban.

"Preventing a woman from driving a car is today an issue of rights similar to the one that forbade her from receiving an education or having an independent identity," Alwaleed said.

"They are all unjust acts by a traditional society, far more restrictive than what is lawfully allowed by the precepts of religion."

He also detailed the "economic costs" of women having to rely on foreign private drivers or taxis, since public transit is not a viable alternative in the kingdom.

Using foreign drivers drains billions of dollars from the Saudi economy, Alwaleed said.

He calculated that families spend an average of 3,800 riyals ($1,000, 940 euros) a month on a driver, money which otherwise could help household incomes at a time when many are making do with less.

Even if their husbands can take time out to transport the women, that requires temporarily leaving the office and "undermines the productivity of the workforce," Alwaleed said.

"Having women drive has become an urgent social demand predicated upon current economic circumstances."

The prince said he is making his call on behalf of those with "limited means".

A slow expansion of women's rights began under the late king Abdullah, who in 2013 named them to the Shura Council which advises cabinet.

Abdullah also announced that women could for the first time vote and run in municipal elections, which were held last December.

These and other decisions in Saudi history were initially opposed by "certain elements" but soon became accepted, Alwaleed said, calling for "a similarly decisive" political act.

In April, Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said change cannot be forced, and "it is up to Saudi society."

In Alwaleed's view, however, "what cannot be allowed is to have one segment imposing its preferences on the rest of society."


http://www.dawn.com/news/1299619/time-for-women-to-drive-urges-saudi-prince
 
Let's all stand up and welcome Saudi to the 20th century... ooops I meant 21st century.
 
In ancient times Islam did not prohibit Women from riding horses.


Islam does not stop women from driving Cars neither directly nor indirectly.


Haven't read the article yet but hope they do not bring this thing next that a Mehrum has to accompany the lady driving the Car.
 
Well done to Waleed.

Although am afraid, he will get a lot of abuse from locals.
 
This is in response to the statement made by the Crown Prince (Mohammad bin Salman) recently that Saudi Arabia isn't ready for women drivers. Unfortunately when Waleed bin Talal's father went in to exile he lost the support of the Sauds. While he is the most successful Saudi in the world he has no say/pull in the affairs of the country. He does have his own Saudi female pilot though and apparently she's the only Saudi woman who can fly.
 
TalentSpotterPk said:
In ancient times Islam did not prohibit Women from riding horses.


Islam does not stop women from driving Cars neither directly nor indirectly.


Haven't read the article yet but hope they do not bring this thing next that a Mehrum has to accompany the lady driving the Car.
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I never did understand the reasoning behind restricting women drivers, but then it's probably not much different to the reasoning for wearing a burka. Both have probably lost all connection to the time they were associated with.
 
Cpt. Rishwat said:
I never did understand the reasoning behind restricting women drivers, but then it's probably not much different to the reasoning for wearing a burka. Both have probably lost all connection to the time they were associated with.
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The reason they give is that they will not be in their control anymore and freedom may propell them to do immoral things while they themselves do whatever. So keep them in check under the eyes. This is anti human aswell as anti Islamic behaviour.


Wrt Burqa I have to disagree. It should be allowed. If a women is willing to wear it she should not be stopped from wearing it. But, you cannot force any women to wear it not in any capacity. Furthermore in Countries with Non Muslim majority if the law does not permit a Muslim Women to wear " Naqaab " ie cover her facial features from others than though it is a sad thing for a practicing Islamic women and the family but the Muslims must comply with the Law of the land. They may raise their voice peacefully at right forums but should not take either Extreme Steps nor indulge in extremism.


State should not interfere in People's religion and personal life as to what they should wear and what they should not wear. It should be entirely upto the individuals as a matter of personal choice.
 
If Women don't drive in Saudi Arabia, who is doing the Groceries? So a man has to always drive them around?

That would suck totally. Such an inconvenience for women.
 
troodon said:
If Women don't drive in Saudi Arabia, who is doing the Groceries? So a man has to always drive them around?

That would suck totally. Such an inconvenience for women.
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Saudi is an odd place. Most Saudi families have drivers..usually one or two...if they can't afford one they usually have a son in the family who does the driving...it's the women in the rural areas that will benefit from this change in law. Plus Saudi culture is one where majority of women choose not to drive for various reasons. I'd say women driving in Saudi is still a decade away.
 
TalentSpotterPk said:
The reason they give is that they will not be in their control anymore and freedom may propell them to do immoral things while they themselves do whatever. So keep them in check under the eyes. This is anti human aswell as anti Islamic behaviour.


Wrt Burqa I have to disagree. It should be allowed. If a women is willing to wear it she should not be stopped from wearing it. But, you cannot force any women to wear it not in any capacity. Furthermore in Countries with Non Muslim majority if the law does not permit a Muslim Women to wear " Naqaab " ie cover her facial features from others than though it is a sad thing for a practicing Islamic women and the family but the Muslims must comply with the Law of the land. They may raise their voice peacefully at right forums but should not take either Extreme Steps nor indulge in extremism.


State should not interfere in People's religion and personal life as to what they should wear and what they should not wear. It should be entirely upto the individuals as a matter of personal choice.
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But the state does interfere with people's religion in reality, or at least it does in Saudi Arabia. That is the problem when you take words from a holy book and start making them into legislature which ironically probably didn't come about until centuries after the religion was born.
 
Cpt. Rishwat said:
But the state does interfere with people's religion in reality, or at least it does in Saudi Arabia. That is the problem when you take words from a holy book and start making them into legislature which ironically probably didn't come about until centuries after the religion was born.
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Yes it is an issue and this Mingling will never work in any Democratic system and even in Monarchies.
 
It is not gonna happen. The billionaire has probably been instructed to say such things. Now that he has his job is done, back to reality for the Saudi's.
 
the chickens are coming home to roost for the saudis, the sweet smell of desperation is a rare pleasure to behold.

theyre running out of money, thats the only real reason for this statement. he doenst give a crap about rights. theres nothing religious about the state at all - its disfigured, corpulent excess in termsof socialpsychology is so easily visible in the monstrosities they create.

if theres any justice, this is just the beginning...
 
There have been Saudi women who have gone abroad and driven in Europe so hopefully they can set up an example for all
 
And then there are expats; Desis and western Muslims who go to Saudi and say Saudi women are pampered and forbidden from driving for their own good.

In practical terms though, the biggest hurdle for them is the guardian requirement, and not the driving ban
 
Year - 2016 and we still have such laws.. Let's hope 2017 would be a year for change..
 
Time for Saudi Arabia to join us all in the 21st century. No place for such disgusting and sexist laws in modern day and age.
 
TalentSpotterPk said:
The reason they give is that they will not be in their control anymore and freedom may propell them to do immoral things while they themselves do whatever. So keep them in check under the eyes. This is anti human aswell as anti Islamic behaviour.


Wrt Burqa I have to disagree. It should be allowed. If a women is willing to wear it she should not be stopped from wearing it. But, you cannot force any women to wear it not in any capacity. Furthermore in Countries with Non Muslim majority if the law does not permit a Muslim Women to wear " Naqaab " ie cover her facial features from others than though it is a sad thing for a practicing Islamic women and the family but the Muslims must comply with the Law of the land. They may raise their voice peacefully at right forums but should not take either Extreme Steps nor indulge in extremism.


State should not interfere in People's religion and personal life as to what they should wear and what they should not wear. It should be entirely upto the individuals as a matter of personal choice.
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I don't know why the average Muslim will never understand these things, maybe they're too ignorant to open up their minds. The part where you mention that the law of the land should be followed should be taught to the children from the very beginning. If you argue with an average Muslim he'll say that non Muslims should follow Muslim no questions asked but God forbid the Muslims follow the laws of the non muslim country.
 
TalentSpotterPk said:
The reason they give is that they will not be in their control anymore and freedom may propell them to do immoral things while they themselves do whatever. So keep them in check under the eyes. This is anti human aswell as anti Islamic behaviour.


Wrt Burqa I have to disagree. It should be allowed. If a women is willing to wear it she should not be stopped from wearing it. But, you cannot force any women to wear it not in any capacity. Furthermore in Countries with Non Muslim majority if the law does not permit a Muslim Women to wear " Naqaab " ie cover her facial features from others than though it is a sad thing for a practicing Islamic women and the family but the Muslims must comply with the Law of the land. They may raise their voice peacefully at right forums but should not take either Extreme Steps nor indulge in extremism.


State should not interfere in People's religion and personal life as to what they should wear and what they should not wear. It should be entirely upto the individuals as a matter of personal choice.
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Burqas and especially covering of the face should be banned
 
Women in other gulf countries have no problems driving around or wearing what they want, Saudi Arabia should be taught to get a life.
 
Varun said:
Women in other gulf countries have no problems driving around or wearing what they want, Saudi Arabia should be taught to get a life.
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I wonder who will teach them on the thorny issue of women's rights? I am trying to think of which international ambassador would be best suited to this - Pakistani, Indian or British. What do you think?
 
Cpt. Rishwat said:
I wonder who will teach them on the thorny issue of women's rights? I am trying to think of which international ambassador would be best suited to this - Pakistani, Indian or British. What do you think?
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On second thoughts, we should leave them be. What's the world without a punching bag or two.
 
Varun said:
On second thoughts, we should leave them be. What's the world without a punching bag or two.
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Oh I think in your case I would agree. India and Pakistan could probably do with looking to get their own house in order in that regard.
 
Saudi Arabia Agrees to Let Women Drive

Saudi Arabia announced on Tuesday that it would allow women to drive, ending a longstanding policy that has become a global symbol of the repression of women in the ultraconservative kingdom.

The change, which will take effect in June of next year, was announced on state television and in a simultaneous media event in Washington. The decision highlights the damage that the no-driving policy has done to the kingdom’s international reputation and its hopes for a public relations benefit from the reform.

Saudi Arabia, the birthplace of Islam, is a Muslim monarchy ruled according to Shariah law. Saudi officials and clerics have provided numerous explanations for the ban over the years.

Some said that it was inappropriate in Saudi culture for women to drive, or that male drivers would not know how to handle women in cars next to them. Others argued that allowing women to drive would lead to promiscuity and the collapse of the Saudi family. One cleric claimed — with no evidence — that driving harmed women’s ovaries.

Rights groups have long campaigned for the ban to be overturned, and some women have been arrested and jailed for defying the prohibition and taking the wheel.

But the momentum to change the policy has picked up in recent years with the rise of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a 32-year-old son of the king who has laid out a far-reaching plan to overhaul the kingdom’s economy and society.

Beyond the effects it could have on Saudi Arabia’s image abroad, letting women drive could help the Saudi economy.

Low oil prices have limited the government jobs that many Saudis have long relied on, and the kingdom is trying to push more citizens, including women, into gainful employment. But some working Saudi women say hiring private drivers to get them to and from work eats up much of their pay, diminishing the incentive to work.

In recent years, many women have come to rely on ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem to gain some freedom of movement.

Despite the announcement, women will not be able to drive immediately. The kingdom has no infrastructure for women to learn to drive or to obtain drivers licenses. The police will need to be trained to interact with women in a way that they rarely do in a society where men and women who are not related rarely interact.

But many of the kingdom’s professionals and young people will welcome the change, viewing it as a step to making life in the country a bit more like life elsewhere.

https://www.nytimes.com/2017/09/26/world/middleeast/saudi-arabia-women-drive.html
 
Excellent news...(a good news from KSA after long time)

Though I do not like kings and princes but this crown prince is somewhat progressive for women issues.
 
How will the cop issue a ticket to a female driver without looking at the face of the female driver? Will there be female state troopers and sheriffs too?
 
Saudi Kings would like to modernise the country more. But the clerics have always been the obstacle hopefully they become irrelevant as Saudi moves forward.
 
Adil_94 said:
Saudi Kings would like to modernise the country more. But the clerics have always been the obstacle hopefully they become irrelevant as Saudi moves forward.
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He is paving the way for his son who is young and could not have done this himself
 
Adil_94 said:
Saudi Kings would like to modernise the country more. But the clerics have always been the obstacle hopefully they become irrelevant as Saudi moves forward.
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Saudi kings are the ultimate authority, if the clerics have too much power then it's because the dynasty must have encouraged it.
 
@Cpt.Rishwat yeah the kings have allowed the clerics to get too much power in terms of dominating the social agenda in Saudi. they do use the clerics to justify their own rule n monarchy so that is the monarchys fault too.

recently though theres been a lot more splits because people in saudi are demanding more rights n oil revenues are dropping. Harder to justify saudi autocracy when peoples economic benefits are decreasing.

the new crown prince also wants to modernise because of intl pressures too.

its a poisoned chalice now but they have to negotiate the move to a more open society without an all out civil war by completely culling the clerics.
reform will be done at a measured speed.
 
Cpt. Rishwat said:
Saudi kings are the ultimate authority, if the clerics have too much power then it's because the dynasty must have encouraged it.
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It's more of an alliance. The monarchy needs the clerics to legitimize their government, in return for which they get free rein and hundreds of billions of dollars (literally hundreds of billions) to propagate their ideology across the world. Saudi Arabia has spent roughly 13 times more in the last thirty years to that end than the Soviet Union, a civilizational power, did in the 70 odd years to 1991.
 
They have the camera phone type of this in their hands, they take a picture of the and I am guessing that the ticket is mailed out . its pretty cool
 
MRSN said:
Depends on his intentions..
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How do you know the intentions?

I read that Prophet PBUH never looked at the face of a stranger woman. If so, Quran clearly prohibits looking at a stranger woman. In Saudi Arabia case, since they follow Sharia law, they have to do something that Prophet himself never did.
 
DW44 said:
It's more of an alliance. The monarchy needs the clerics to legitimize their government, in return for which they get free rein and hundreds of billions of dollars (literally hundreds of billions) to propagate their ideology across the world. Saudi Arabia has spent roughly 13 times more in the last thirty years to that end than the Soviet Union, a civilizational power, did in the 70 odd years to 1991.
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It's a strange partnership then, but probably par for the course, it's not really a proper country so I guess they can make the rules up as they go along.
 
troodon said:
No stopping and looking at the culprits face then. They just send the ticket by mail?
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For most offenses.I am sure its different for accidents etc. If you read the article posted hey are fixing to hire a women police force to deal with women traffic related incidents . I am guessing they will be the ones checking under the burqa.
 
Cpt. Rishwat said:
It's a strange partnership then, but probably par for the course, it's not really a proper country so I guess they can make the rules up as they go along.
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How is it strange? It's textbook you scratch my back I'll scratch yours. The clergy has historically been very influential with Saudi's ultra conservative public and a monarchy legitimacy is questionable at the best of times so it logically follows that the clergy lend the monarchy their influence with the public in return for the monarchy giving the ideologically driven clergy funds to spread their ideology around the world.
 
DW44 said:
How is it strange? It's textbook you scratch my back I'll scratch yours. The clergy has historically been very influential with Saudi's ultra conservative public and a monarchy legitimacy is questionable at the best of times so it logically follows that the clergy lend the monarchy their influence with the public in return for the monarchy giving the ideologically driven clergy funds to spread their ideology around the world.
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I meant strange from the POV of most other countries, but like I said, it's not really a proper country anyway. By that I mean a normal population with normal infrastructure and economy. With an abnormal glut of oil wealth, the people don't have the same problems as would arise elsewhere, there's money to throw around on spreading ideology abroad presumably, and because everyone is rich and idle, not many can be bothered to complain.
 
You know who this is bad for ? Keralite-Indians, serving as the driver for rich Arab household was a very popular profession amongst south Indian muslim migrants.
 
One thing to note here is the law is ONLY for Saudi women and not all women in Saudi Arabia. Expat women will not be able to drive.

Also, from what I hear from people in Saudi is that only Saudi women over the age of 30 will be allowed and they will not be allowed to drive after 11pm.

While this is a step in the right direction, things will be a mess in the short-term. Anyone who has been to Riyadh recently can tell you how horrible the traffic is.
 
sshakir411 said:
One thing to note here is the law is ONLY for Saudi women and not all women in Saudi Arabia. Expat women will not be able to drive.
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What is the reasoning behind that? When you say ex-pat, do you mean women who come from abroad? It doesn't make any sense whatsoever. I thought it was a religious edict.
 
Cpt. Rishwat said:
What is the reasoning behind that? When you say ex-pat, do you mean women who come from abroad? It doesn't make any sense whatsoever. I thought it was a religious edict.
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yes, expats = expatriates, non-Saudis living and working in Saudi. I'm not sure what the reasoning is, I think the number of Saudi women wanting to drive will be less than foreign women.
 
Forget Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona, the biggest move in the world of football this month will come on Friday as women step inside a Saudi Arabian stadium to watch a professional game from the stands for the first time in the country’s history. Al-Ahli will be trying to close the gap at the top of the Saudi Premier League behind Al-Hilal with a win over Al-Batin but more attention will be paid to the make up of those in the crowd.

Until now, in the country ranked by the World Economic Forum in 2016 as 141th out of 144 on gender parity, women have been forced to watch the beautiful game on television. Those caught inside a stadium, as one woman was in December 2014, were arrested. The Saudi government announced last October that the long-standing ban was coming to an end, in at least in three stadiums to start with. Arenas in Riyadh, Jeddah and the eastern city of Dammam will have special sections for female fans.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who was elevated to his current position last July, has been easing restrictions on women. In June the driving ban is set to be lifted. After the 32-year-old allowed women into a Riyadh stadium last September to celebrate the country’s national day in a move that went well, the next step was obvious. It is set to be a significant one not least because there is genuine passion for the sport in all sections of Saudi Arabian society.

Ghadah Grrah could not watch her favourite team Al-Hilal even in the final of the 2014 Asian Champions League though female fans of Western Sydney Wanderers were allowed inside the King Fahd Stadium. Her wait, however, is finally coming to an end. “It can be hard to have to watch your team only on television especially when it is a big game or a final but now my wish is coming true,” the 22 year-old tells the Guardian.

The fact that it is a huge game against Al-Ittihad of Jeddah, national and continental rivals, just adds to the anticipation. “I don’t know how to describe my feelings to you,” she adds. “I have been waiting since I became a fan in 2010 and it is such a pleasure to go to a match for my favourite team in Saudi Arabia. I am very excited.”

Decision making by the Saudi Arabian Football Federation may be erratic but the government’s call to allow women into stadiums is anything but, according to the Jeddah-based journalist Aseel Bashraheel. “There are many female fans in Saudi Arabia,” she says. “Many of my female friends and family are huge football enthusiasts. I’ve been to my share of cafes in Jeddah on many game nights and I’ve witnessed all the ladies around me watching the games animatedly and cheering loudly with their husbands and kids. I’ve seen my aunt and uncle cheer for opposing teams and then bicker and tease each other when their teams win or lose.”

It is expected there will be an major influx of women for the opening games before a lull, with numbers hopefully gradually increasing over the months and years to come. “There will be a lot of women attending games as they have been waiting for this for many years,” says Khalin Ghadin of the Saudi Premier League, although the official acknowledges there has been some negative reaction on social media. “There was some criticism. Any decision brings criticism but most people support it.”

Bashraheel knows it will take time for more conservative elements in the country to be won over. “There were those who welcomed the decision and expressed their eagerness to attend a family-oriented football match. And then there were others who believed the decision goes against Saudi’s culture and tradition.” That culture may be not quite as immovable as previously thought. “Society is changing in Saudi Arabia but I also believe there’s always room for more change.”

For Grrah it is a good start and the Al-Hilal fan believes that Saudi soccer was never solely a male preserve anyway. “Saudi women have long been involved in the culture of football, this was never applicable to men only. If a woman is at the stadium with her husband, father or brother, the players will be more excited. We have been waiting for a long time and this is a new feeling for everyone. I think it will be a wonderful event.”

https://www.theguardian.com/footbal...rabia-women-professional-stadium-fan-al-hilal
 
I wonder how many male relatives need to be in the car with the fortunate lady for her to be behind the wheel??. Surely they will need some lessons followed by a test as well.
 
Yay... give or take 1000 years of social progress in one shot that must be some record for an Arabic country.
 
First women-only car showroom opens in Saudi Arabia

A Saudi private company on Thursday opened the first car showroom for women only just five months before a decision allowing females to drive takes effect.

The showroom was opened in a shopping mall in the western Red Sea port city of Jeddah to allow women the freedom to choose their own cars before they hit the road.

In a historic decision late last year, King Salman gave Saudi women the right to drive, abolishing an almost three-decade ban based on religious reasons.

The showroom offers a wide selection of vehicles from various makes and is staffed by women only. It also provides women with solutions to finance their purchase provided by leading banks and financial companies.

The company plans to open more automobiles showrooms for women in the oil-rich kingdom.

Source link:https://www.khaleejtimes.com/region/saudi-arabia/first-women-only-car-showroom-opens-in-saudi-arabia
 
from_da_lost_dim3nsion said:
For most offenses.I am sure its different for accidents etc. If you read the article posted hey are fixing to hire a women police force to deal with women traffic related incidents . I am guessing they will be the ones checking under the burqa.
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How do police know before hand if the traffic violator is a man or woman? Unless they know they cannot send a gender specific cop to issue the ticket.

If Saudi’s decide to send both cops and depending on the violator, the male or female cop looks at the violator and issues the ticket, it means both male and female cops need to be together working.

Saudis needs robots to issue tickets to traffic violators.
 
troodon said:
How do police know before hand if the traffic violator is a man or woman? Unless they know they cannot send a gender specific cop to issue the ticket.

If Saudi’s decide to send both cops and depending on the violator, the male or female cop looks at the violator and issues the ticket, it means both male and female cops need to be together working.

Saudis needs robots to issue tickets to traffic violators.
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I guess they stay in burqa till a lady officer arrives .Similar to what happens in India.
 
Saudi women score right to watch men's soccer in stadiums

JEDDAH: Women in black abayas and fluorescent orange vests stood at the gates at King Abdullah Stadium, welcoming people into the family section that, for the first time in Saudi Arabia, allowed women to attend a men's soccer match.

As the two teams al-Ahli and al-Batin faced each other in the city of Jeddah, women showed up to their first public sporting event in the Kingdom to support the sides with their spouses, children and friends.
The General Sports Authority announced in October that stadiums in Jeddah, Dammam and Riyadh will be set up to accommodate families starting in 2018.

"Honestly this decision should have happened a long time ago," said Muneera al-Ghamdi, an attendee. "But thank god that it came in the right time, and hopefully what's to come will be even more beautiful for women."

The decision to allow women to attend a mixed public sporting event is one of many changes the country has undergone in recent months, hailed as proof of a new progressive trend in the deeply conservative Muslim Kingdom.

On Thursday, Jeddah held Saudi Arabia's first car exhibition aimed at women, a few months after Saudi Arabia announced it would grant them the right to drive..
A soccer match on Saturday in the capital Riyadh will also be welcoming women fans.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, 32, has been hailed as the face of these changes.

Many young Saudis regard his recent ascent to power as proof their generation is taking a central place in running a country whose patriarchal traditions have for decades made power the province of the old and blocked women's progress.

"Today the percentage of those who participate in exercise and sports is only 13 percent," said Hayfaa al-Sabban, who heads a sport organisation.
"We aim god willing to raise it to 40 percent by 2030, through several events, and today's is one of these events."

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com...s-soccer-in-stadiums/articleshow/62482721.cms
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.
 
For years, Areej al-Ghamdi could only cheer her favourite football team from home, but everything changed on Friday when Saudi Arabia allowed women into the stadium for the first time.

The university student was among around 300 Saudi women who thronged Pearl stadium in the Red Sea city of Jeddah after the ultra-conservative kingdom eases decades-old rules. “I came with my father and my brother – we’re fans of Al-Ahli,” said Ghamdi of the Saudi Premier League club facing off against Al-Batin.

The young woman said she always used to cheer her home team from the comfort of her living room. “We love the club very much, and our home would often become an arena for supporters,” she said.

“This is the first time we’ll be cheering for real, not just in front of the television,” said Ghamdi, who wore a black abaya robe and a black scarf with a green Al-Ahli scarf round her neck. It is so much better here.”

The game began at 8:00 pm, but two hours before the historic kick-off enthusiasm was palpable as women supporters began arriving at the stadium. Among the first were a woman accompanied by a younger female and a girl.

A boy sat next to them in seats that had been reserved for women who come alone or with members of their families, namely male relatives. The women entered the stadium through a special gate, while male supporters filed in through a separate entrance.

Saleh al-Ziadi brought his three daughters to the game. “My daughters still don’t believe this is happening. They have not yet realised they will be cheering their favourite team inside the stadium,” he said.

Saudi Arabia, which has some of the world’s tightest restrictions on women, has long barred them from sports arenas through strict rules that keep the sexes apart in public. Glass panels were set up to separate men supporters from the women and family section of the stadium.

“This event proves that we are heading for a prosperous future. I am very proud to be a witness of this massive change,” Lamya Khaled Nasser, a 32-year-old fan from the Red Sea city, said. Ruwayda Ali Qassem, another Jeddah resident, spoke of a “historic day in the kingdom which culminates (in) ongoing fundamental changes”.

“I am proud and extremely happy for this development and for the kingdom’s moves to catch up with civilised measures adopted by many countries,” she said.

The women entering the venue waited in long queues to be searched by women security personnel who wore orange vests over their black abayas, while inside the stadium another team directed them to their seats.

Jeddah resident Noura Bakharji was among those who patiently waited for her turn, and for a reason. Bakharji said she always felt bitter when her brothers came home from stadiums to tell her about the excitement of watching football matches in person. “I always watched games on TV while my brothers went to the stadiums... I asked myself repeatedly ‘Why I can’t go?’” she told said. “Today, things have changed. It’s a day of happiness and joy.”

Under Saudi Arabia’s existing guardianship system, a male family member – normally the father, husband or brother – must grant permission for a woman’s study, travel and a host of other activities. Fatimah Baeshen, spokeswoman at the Saudi embassy in Washington “rooted for the ladies” in a message on Twitter.

“As we speak; Saudi women fans are entering soccer stadiums! This is more than women’s rights: today’s match between Al-Ahli and Al-Batin, and the ones to follow, are opportunities for families to come together and enjoy KSA’s national sport – soccer! I’m rooting for the ladies – enjoy!” Baeshen tweeted.

Friday’s match was the first in a series that will be open to women: a second is due to take place on Saturday and a third on January 18. And in June, as part of a reforms drive led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, authorities are lifting a ban that prohibited Saudi women from driving.

And the result of Friday’s game? A 5-0 defeat for Al-Batin – and a victory for women in Saudi Arabia.

https://scroll.in/bulletins/113/its-january-and-its-already-time-to-plan-your-next-holiday
 
Last edited by a moderator:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="de"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Saudi women hit the road as female driving ban ends <a href="https://t.co/oqs3cAPaId">https://t.co/oqs3cAPaId</a></p>— Sky News (@SkyNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/SkyNews/status/1010631260983775236?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">23. Juni 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
 
DeadBall said:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="de"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Saudi women hit the road as female driving ban ends <a href="https://t.co/oqs3cAPaId">https://t.co/oqs3cAPaId</a></p>— Sky News (@SkyNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/SkyNews/status/1010631260983775236?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">23. Juni 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Great new milestone in the history of the country. The woman in the video seems to be very well-spoken and confident. Good for her

Can't believe alot of people still oppose the idea of women driving. Truly barbaric comments from some people across the internet
 
From what I read, foreign women on their husbands visa are still not allowed to drive. Lets hope that changes too in the near future.
 
Saudi women take the wheel as longstanding driving ban ends


RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (AP) — Saudi women drove to work and ran errands on Sunday, relishing the freedom to move about without relying on men after the kingdom lifted the world's last remaining ban on women driving.

It's a historic moment for women who have been at the mercy of their husbands, fathers, brothers and drivers to move around. The ban had relegated women to the backseat, restricting when they could meet friends, where they could spend their time and how they could plan out their day.

"It feels beautiful. It was a dream for us so when it happens in reality, I am between belief and disbelief— between a feeling of joy and astonishment," said Mabkhoutah al-Mari as she pulled up to order a drive-thru coffee on her way to work.

The 27-year-old mother of two is a driving instructor for women and already had a driver's license from the U.S., where she'd spent time in Tennessee studying. But on this morning, she drove freely in her hometown of Riyadh for the first time. As she prepared to set off on the road, her older brother sent her off with a kiss on the forehead and a wave.

For most of her life al-Mari relied on drivers hired by her family, and she and her sisters had to coordinate drop-offs and pick-ups.

"Now, thanks to God, I can plan out my own schedule and my errands and my daughters' errands," al-Mari said.

Some women didn't wait until the morning to drive, jumping in their cars at the stroke of midnight and steering their way through the capital's still busy streets.

"I'm speechless. I'm so excited it's actually happening," said Hessah al-Ajaji, who drove her family's Lexus down Riyadh's Tahlia Street after midnight.

Al-Ajaji had a U.S. driver's license before obtaining a Saudi one and appeared comfortable at the wheel as she pulled up and parked. As for the male drivers on the road, "they were really supportive and cheering and smiling," she said.

For nearly three decades, outspoken Saudi women and men had called for women to have the right to drive as a symbol of other changes they said were needed in the deeply conservative kingdom.

While there was never explicitly a law against women driving in Saudi Arabia, a ban was enforced by police and licenses were not issued to women. The driving ban had been a stain on the country's reputation and hindered women's ability to contribute to the economy.

In 1990, during the first driving campaign by activists, women who drove in Riyadh lost their jobs and were barred from traveling abroad, even as women in other conservative Muslim countries drove freely.

Ultraconservatives in Saudi Arabia had long warned that allowing women to drive would lead to sin and expose women to harassment. Ahead of lifting the driving ban, the kingdom passed a law against sexual harassment with up to five years in prison for the most severe cases.

Three of the women who'd taken part in that 1990 protest and several others who campaigned years later for the right to drive were arrested last month, just weeks before the kingdom lifted its ban. Some have since been temporarily released.

The arrests have cast a pall on the social openings being pushed by 32-year-old Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who has attempted to brand himself a reformer.

Three of those still detained— Aziza al-Yousef, Loujain al-Hathloul and Eman al-Nafjan— are seen as icons of the women's rights movement in Saudi Arabia. They had also been calling for an end to guardianship laws that give male relatives final say over whether a woman can marry, obtain a passport or travel abroad.

The government has accused them of vague crimes, including working with "foreign entities" to harm the interests of the kingdom. Their arrest, however, appears to send a message that only the king and his powerful son and heir will decide the pace of change.

Although women can now drive in Saudi Arabia and don't need male permission to obtain a license, most will still need the support of a father or husband to drive.

As she drove through the streets of Riyadh, Ammal Farahat, a mother of two, said every effort or risk taken over the years has made a difference and led to Sunday's change.

"It's like they say the ocean is made of little drops of water and that's exactly how I feel today. It's the efforts of everyone, little drops of sweat," Farahat said.

With state-backed support for women driving, more Saudis are openly expressing their support for the decision, saying it is long overdue.

Not all women are driving at once, though. The overwhelming majority of women in Saudi Arabia still don't have licenses. Many haven't had a chance to take the gender-segregated driving courses that were first offered to women only three months ago. There's a waiting list of several months for the classes on offer in major cities. And the classes can be costly, running several hundred dollars.

Other women already own cars driven by chauffeurs and are in no rush to drive themselves. In many cases, women say they'll wait to see how the situation on the streets pans out and how male drivers react.

"I will get my driver's license, but I won't drive because I have a driver. I am going to leave it for an emergency. It is one of my rights and I will keep it in my purse," said 60-year-old Lulwa al-Fireiji.

While some still quietly oppose the change, there are men openly embracing it.

"I see that this decision will make women equal to men and this will show us that women are capable of doing anything a man can do," said Fawaz al-Harbi. "I am very supportive and in fact I have been waiting for this decision so that my mother, my sisters will drive."

https://www.yahoo.com/news/saudi-women-hit-roads-driving-ban-lifted-081754314.html
 
I don't know if this has been mentioned before but will the female drivers wear the full but for the eyesface covering (not sure of exact name) like the female pedestrians I saw on the streets of Medina (circa 2003)? Surely, just the novelty of female drivers is going to attract attention let alone exposed facial features. Maybe they still have to be covered whilst driving, seen that in the UK.
 
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