Driving ban for women lifted in Saudi Arabia

The General Department of Traffic in Saudi Arabia has announced that women will be allowed to drive in the country as from June 24.

“All the requirements for women in the Kingdom to start driving have been established,” announced the Director of the department Mohammed Al Bassami.

A royal decree issued in September last year removed the prohibition of women driving cars. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is understood to be the main force behind the reform.

The decades-long ban on women from driving was the only case in the world. Many women are known to have acquired driving licenses from other countries who will now have to apply for a local license through a special process.

In response, there has been a marked increase in driving schools across Saudi Arabia.

Women have long petitioned the government to lift the ban, including taking to the wheel in protest.

Sources: ANSA, Al Arabiya