RIYADH: Authorities in Saudi Arabia have said that the country will allow women into sports stadiums for the first time from next year, in a landmark move of opening up three previously male-only venues to families. Known for some of the tightest restrictions on women, Saudi has for long barred women from sports arenas by strict rules on segregation of the sexes in public. The announcement is part of crown prince Mohammed bin Salman's ambitious reforms of shaking up the ultra-conservative kingdom.
General Sports Authority said on Twitter, “Starting the preparation of three stadiums in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam to be ready to accommodate families from early 2018.” It added that restaurants, cafes, and video screens would be set up inside the venues. The announcement implies that women in the nation would be allowed for the first time to attend sporting events inside stadiums alongside men. Rules in the country are rigid to the point that its guardianship system demands a male family member, normally the father, husband or brother, must grant permission for a woman's study, travel, and other activities.
However, the kingdom is seemingly relaxing some norms as part of its sweeping “Vision 2030” plan for economic and social reforms as it prepares for a post-oil era. Just last month, a royal decree said women should be allowed to drive. Last week, in a rare public appearance, prince Mohammed pledged a “moderate” Saudi Arabia. He promised his kingdom will return to “what we were before- a country of moderate Islam that is tolerant of all religions and to the world.”
