Bandar bin Mohammed Al-Aiban

:: The National Society for Human Rights (NSHR) and the Human Rights Commission (HRC) have welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision to allow women to drive.

“I must say that this royal decree is a historical one by all means and a real milestone on the Kingdom’s path toward improving women’s rights,” the chairman of the NSHR, Mufleh Rabiean Al-Qahtani, said.

“Our wise leaders issued their decree to make transportation means available for absolutely everyone, and it’s now the executive authorities’ job to carry out this order in a way that employs and promotes its economic and social advantages,” Al-Qahtani added.

Moreover, Al-Qahtani pointed out that “it is important to implement this decree in accordance with Islamic law and in a way which ensures the prevention of negative consequences.”

For his part, the president of the HRC, Bandar bin Mohammed Al-Aiban, said: “The royal decree will implement the provisions of traffic regulations, including the issuance of driving licenses for men and women alike, which will further women’s contribution to the development process and ensure they receive their full rights.”

Al-Aiban stated that he highly appreciated the issued royal decree, especially the part which stated: “Because the government is the guardian of Shariah standards and considers maintaining them on top of its priorities in all matters, it will do what it takes to sustain society’s safety and security.”

He explained that the efforts of the country’s leadership will continue to protect and improve all aspects of human rights, among which is women’s right to drive cars and fully participate in their country’s progress.

Al-Aiban congratulated Saudi women on their achievements and the progress they have made in many areas, and on the attention and care they receive from King Salman.