Riyadh — Saudi Arabia has become the last country in the world to allow women to drive. Tuesday’s move sparked euphoria and disbelief among activists in the ultra-conservative kingdom, where social restrictions are being loosened. The longstanding driving ban was seen internationally as a symbol of repression of women in the Gulf kingdom, and its repeal comes after years of resistance from female activists. The surprise announcement, which risks riling religious conservatives, is part of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious reform push, aimed at adapting to a post-oil era and improving a global reputation battered by its human rights record. "King Salman bin Abdulaziz al-Saud has issued a decree authorising the issuance of drivers’ licences for women in the kingdom," Saudi state TV said. "The decree will take effect in June 2018." Saudi Arabia would use the "preparatory period" until then to expand licensing facilities and develop the infrastructure to accommodate millions of new drivers, it sa...
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