The groundbreaking law of Saudi Arabia allowing women to finally drive was revolutionary. From driving test to eye exams, the Saudi women were and still are being issued licenses to travel across the country by their own free will.
On the other hand, Saudi Arabia is also witnessing the re-opening of public cinemas across the country since 1980s. In addition to this, the government is also planning to allow women to visit the sport stadiums, something which was banned previously.
While the decades-long banning the women from driving was something out of the ordinary, wait till you hear all about the other things Saudi women are still not allowed to do, despite living in the modern 21st century.
1. Making Important Decisions Without the Permission of a Male Guardian
The women’s right activists in Saudi Arabia have their eyes set on another hurdle; dismantling the guardianship system in the country. All the Saudi women are required to have a wali (male guardian) who could be the husband, uncle, brother, father or son.
2. Interaction with Men
3. Not Allowed to Swim
4. To Compete in Sports
In 2012 London Olympics, Saudi female athletes made their first-ever appearance in a sporting event. The clerics denounced the female competitors as “prostitutes” later.
While allowing women to drive was one thing, the Saudi women still do not have it easy than the other parts of the world.
