History was made last night as 10 women in Saudi Arabia received their driving license.
The Kingdom first made a move to allow women to drive last year, but it’s not till June 24 this year when the ban will officially be lifted and female residents can take to the road not only in cars, but also trucks and motorcycles.
According to the National, the women were issued local driving licences in Riyadh on Monday in exchange for the foreign licences they already held. Next week, an additional 2,000 women will join the ranks of licensed drivers in Saudi Arabia. One of the lucky 10 was University assistant professor Tahani Aldosemani who said in a ministry statement:
“Driving for women is not just about driving a car; it enhances strength of character, self-confidence, and decision-making skills. It also instils a sense of responsibility for yourself, your vehicle, the road, and the people around you, not to mention the economic and social dimensions of driving.”
Allowing women behind the wheel is part of the Vision 2030 initiative led by the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman who is determined to make Saudi a more modern, tourist-friendly destination. The post-oil economy plan also aims to increase the number of women in the nation’s workforce among other initiatives.
READ MORE
On Our Radar: Herfah by Naeema
What To Expect From Fashion Forward Pop Up In Saudi Arabia
