Princess Nourah University is anticipated to open the first women driving school in the country, after the ban on women driving was lifted. The women’s university is coordinating with the relevant authorities after the important decision being taken by King Salman Bin Abdul Aziz allowing women to drive.
The state issued a decree last week stating that women will be allowed to drive “in accordance with the Islamic laws”. The royal decree mandates formation of a committee with influential personalities to give recommendations within 30 days. The law would then be implemented by 23rd of June 2018 according to the Islamic calendar.
Talking about the university opening first women driving school, it was found in the capital Riyadh in 1970 and currently enlists 60,000 women students.
Activists and university students rejoice and celebrate after winning the long fought battle, facing tough punishments and severe restrictions leading to their arrests.
The economy is expected to boost because around $1,000/month is spent on hiring drivers, which would now be used for household supplies, “Having women drive has become an urgent social demand predicated upon current economic circumstances,” said the prince.
Appreciation and optimism are pouring within the country and across the globe as Saudi Arabia was the only country where women were not allowed to drive. These ambitious reforms aim to boost female employment and loosen the tight restrictions along with gender inequality. Further positive changes are expected with the Vision 2030 social and economic reform.