Saudi Allows Women To Hold Passport; Find Out What They Still Cannot Do

Riyadh: The Saudi Arabia Government on Thursday cleared a proposal, which will allow women to hold a passport and those above the age of 21 to travel abroad without the consent of male members.

CNN quoted a government statement saying the move was part of the Kingdom’s efforts to promote women’s rights and empowerment, equal to men.

At present, a woman is allowed to hold a passport only after she gets a consent from a male member of the family. The authorities issue a page against her name, which is attached to the passport of the male member, thus making it impossible for her to travel abroad alone.

The new policy will come into effect this month onwards, CNN said.

Other reform measures to empower women:

In 2015, women were allowed to cast ballots in municipal elections. This led to 17 women being elected.

In 2017, women were allowed to drive. The first driving license was issued in 2018.

What they still can’t do:

Open a bank account.

They cannot decide their attire as dressing for beauty is illegal.

Interact with men in public.

In case of medical treatment, even a surgery, they require the consent of a male member.

Divorced women are allowed to have custody of their children till they attain the age of seven (boys) and nine (girls).