Saudi women to be allowed access to sports stadiums from next year

Saudi Arabia will allow women into three sports stadiums for the first time from next year, authorities have said, in a landmark move that would open up the previously male-only venues to families.


The kingdom, which has some of the world's tightest restrictions on women, has long barred women from sports arenas by strict rules on segregation of the sexes in public.

The announcement is in line with powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's ambitious reform drive shaking up the ultra-conservative kingdom, including the decision to allow women to drive from next June.

"Starting the preparation of three stadiums in Riyadh, Jeddah and Damman to be ready to accommodate families from early 2018," the General Sports Authority said on Twitter.
 [rte.ie]
 30/10/17