Esraa Albuti becomes first woman to obtain driving license in Saudi Arabia
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Esraa Albuti: First Woman to Obtain Driving License in Saudi Arabia
Introduction
Ending a longstanding policy in the conservative Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, authorities officially began issuing driving licenses to women three weeks prior to lifting the driving ban on June 24th, 2018. Among the first women to receive a Saudi driving license is Esraa Albuti, who holds valid licenses from the U.S., U.K., Lebanon, and Canada.
Licensing Process for Women
According to an official statement released by the government, the women underwent a brief test and an eye examination before being issued licenses at the General Department of Traffic in the capital city, Riyadh.
- Women across the country have been preparing to drive on June 24th by taking multiple driving classes at female-only college campuses.
- Others are training to become drivers for companies such as Uber.
Challenges Faced by Women in Saudi Arabia
While the Kingdom faces steep economic challenges and has a growing young population that has access to the world through the internet, Saudi women have long complained about the difficulties of relying on male drivers, taxis, or family members for transportation to work and daily errands.
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