This will likely be an evolving post and one which I hope will receive input and contributions from readers. I was recently asked if I could make a list of what Saudi women can and cannot do due to the culture, social, law and religious traditions of the Kingdom.
For starters, they cannot:
- Drive (culture, social and legal)
- Sponsor a non-Saudi husband for residency (iqama) in the Kingdom (legal)
- Visit a graveyard (although there is debate on this topic) (culture and religious)
- Attend Friday prayers in a mosque unless there is a women section (there is also debate on this topic) (culture and religious)
- Be alone with an unrelated man who is not a “sanctioned” relative (father, grandfather, brother, uncle, husband) (culture, social and legal)
- Travel alone without approval of the male mahrem (culture, social and legal)
What can they do?
- Work
- Have their own bank accounts
- Have their own businesses
- Own properties
- Own businesses
- Make investments
- Have their own driver
- Own a car
As I said when starting this post, I started some of the issues and now turn it over for readers to add their comments. I realize this can be a heated topic on which there will likely be diverse views and opinions and ask everyone that we ensure to discuss the issue in a non-confrontational and adult manner which will further understanding of the differing views shared.
Filed under: Dress, gender, Saudi Arabia, Saudi culture, women driving, Women Issues | 100 Comments »
