Women in Saudi Arabia can now travel as they wish, thanks to a new law enforced by the government. Saudi women are now free to travel abroad without approval from their male guardian. As per the new law, women above 21 years of age are eligible to apply for a passport without authorization from a male guardian. The new move is also an initiative towards gender equality.
Until recently, Saudi women have had to obtain permission from their male guardian to travel abroad. The guardian can be a father, husband or any other male relative. The rule applied in case she wanted to apply for a passport or leave the country.What’s It?
However, according to the new law, Saudi women can now travel abroad and also apply for passports without consent from a male guardian. In addition, the Kingdom of Saudi has also granted permission for women to register their marriage, child birth or divorce.
Reema Bandar Al Saud, Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to the US said: “”I am elated to confirm that KSA will be enacting amendments to its labor and civil laws that are designed to elevate the status of Saudi women within our society, including granting them the right to apply for passports and travel independently.”
Furthermore, the country has also made amendments on the employment sector, expanding work opportunities for women. Under the new law, all citizens have the right to employment, irrespective of gender, age, or caste.
What Else?
Last year, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed Bin Salman, lifted the ban on driving for women in Saudi Arabia. The end of the driving ban permits more flexibility for Saudi women to join the workforce. The uplifting of the ban gets Saudi Arabia in line with the rest of the world.
Furthermore, Uber and Careem are helping Saudi women with jobs. As part of this, Uber has initiated a “Greenlight Hub” that permits women to register and become trained drivers.