For the first time in more than 50 years, women will be able to drive legally in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia has issued its first driving licences to 10 women, as the kingdom prepares to lift the world’s only ban on female drivers.
They took a brief driving exam and eye test before being issued with the licences at the traffic department in the capital, Riyadh. The issuance of the licences means that for the first time in more than 50 years, women will be able to drive legally in Saudi Arabia. Expectations are that next week an additional 2,000 women will join the ranks of licenced drivers in the Kingdom.
The historic decision in September 2017 by King Salman bin Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia to allow women to drive starting June 24 has been praised around the world. The decision is in line with the Vision 2030 blueprint for the future, spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Women’s empowerment is an important element in Vision 2030 and the future of Saudi Arabia.
The prince has also attempted to appeal to young Saudis by opening the country to more entertainment, allowing music concerts and bringing the first commercial movie theatre to Saudi Arabia this year.
