Saudi Interior Ministry Says No Problem in Women Patrols

traffic
traffic
TT

Saudi Interior Ministry Says No Problem in Women Patrols

traffic
traffic

The Saudi Interior Ministry has affirmed that there is no problem in having women patrols on the external roads, following the recruitment of women in security control centers.

Women are also permitted to drive motorcycles, trucks and cars once the decree becomes applicable in June next year.

The ministry noted that the Saudi woman can replace her Gulf license with a Saudi one, and will be exempted from the driving test.

As part of a memo to explain the traffic rules in the kingdom for men and women, the ministry stressed that when women start driving vehicles nothing will stop them from working in security control centers and checkpoints.

This would take place after processes of training, qualifying and developing capabilities. Awareness-raising campaigns were launched, targeting women interested in driving, also agreements were signed with a number of parties willing to open schools for teaching driving, mentioned the ministry.

“Women visiting Saudi Arabia can drive with an international license, recognized for one year since the date of entry to the kingdom or the expiry date (depending on which date is sooner),” stated the Ministry of Interior.

It also underlined the royal decree banning harassment so that the Saudi woman can practice her legitimate rights, knowing that she can always notify the emergency or security centers about any harassment. 

Since the issuance of the royal decree allowing women to drive, the Directorate-General of Traffic has been part of a committee, which was formed for this purpose.

All regulatory and administrative requirements were prepared to enable the Traffic of performing essential roles once women start driving.



Saudi Arabia Bids Farewell to Last Pilgrims from Madinah Airport

7,700 flights through six airports transported foreign pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Hajj (SPA)
7,700 flights through six airports transported foreign pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Hajj (SPA)
TT

Saudi Arabia Bids Farewell to Last Pilgrims from Madinah Airport

7,700 flights through six airports transported foreign pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Hajj (SPA)
7,700 flights through six airports transported foreign pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Hajj (SPA)

The last group of pilgrims from this year’s Hajj season departed Saudi Arabia on Sunday aboard a Saudia flight from Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah.

The flight carried 320 pilgrims to Kertajati, Indonesia, after they completed their Hajj rituals. Saudia, the Kingdom’s flag carrier, hosted a farewell ceremony, concluding its 74-day Hajj operations.

The first flight for this year’s Hajj season arrived in Madinah on May 9 from India with 283 pilgrims.

They were welcomed by the Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and the Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah.

Saudi Arabia facilitated 7,700 flights through six airports and provided over 27,000 buses to ease pilgrim transportation. The Haramain High-Speed Railway operated more than 5,000 trips during the season.

Over 1.8 million pilgrims participated in the last Hajj season. Health Minister Fahad Al-Jalajel confirmed there were no health issues or outbreaks.

The organization of Hajj was praised by leaders of Arab and Islamic countries.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi commended the excellent organization and services provided to millions of pilgrims.

Bahraini King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa praised the meticulous organization and services.

Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah appreciated the modern smart services and technologies.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed highlighted the success of Saudi Arabia’s Hajj management.