Saudi Arabia allows women to travel without male 'guardian' approval

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia will allow women to obtain passports and travel abroad without approval from a male "guardian", the government said Thursday, ending a longstanding restriction that drew heavy international criticism."A passport will be granted to any Saudi national who submits an application," said a government ruling published in the official gazette Umm Al Qura.The regulation will be applicable to women over the age of 21, the pro-government Okaz newspaper and other local media reported, citing senior authorities.Women in the kingdom have long required permission from their male "guardians" -- husband, father and other male relatives -- to marry, renew their passports or exit the country.

from The News International - World https://ift.tt/2SZK5mg