Historic day for Saudi as ban on women driving ends

Women will hit the roads in Saudi Arabia today with the lifting of the world’s last ban on female drivers. The move, ordered last September by King Salman, is part of sweeping reforms aimed at transforming the economy of the world’s top oil exporter. 

“We are ready, and it will totally change our life,” said Samira Al Ghamdi, a 47-year-old psychologist from Jeddah, one of the first Saudi women to be issued with a driving licence. “I am thrilled!” Sarah Alwassia, 35, a nutritionist in Jeddah, was quoted by Arab News. “I learnt how to drive 18 years ago in the States where I got my driving licence. I can’t believe that the day to drive in my own home town has come.” Alwassia obtained her first American licence when she was 18 years old in 2000, and had it exchanged for a Saudi licence on June 6 in Jeddah. She explained that she is a mother, and this change provided comfort for her and her family. 

Sahar Nasief, 64, a retired lecturer from the European languages and Literature Department at King Abdulaziz University, said: “Nothing could describe my feelings. I can’t wait to get on the road.” Nasief received a very special gift from Ford for this occasion. “They gave me a 2018 Expedition to drive for three days, a Mustang California Special,” she told Arab News. Nasief obtained her Saudi licence on June 7. She also holds a British licence and two American licenses. “Now, I have my national licence too,” she said.  She also said the lifting of the ban provided a sense of relief. “I feel that I can practice one of my rights, and I don’t have to live at the mercy of my driver anymore.”