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Empowering Women and Reopening Cinemas: 5 Crucial Reforms Introduced by Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince

Progressive Steps Forward: Highlighting Crown Prince MBS's Role in Modernizing Saudi Society

25 January 2024 · 19:26 UTC

1. Cinema Revival: Saudi Arabia reopened cinemas in 2018, showcasing "Black Panther" as the first film in 35 years, with plans to establish over 300 cinemas by 2030. 

2. Women Driving: The country lifted the world's only ban on women driving in June 2018, leading to thousands of women drivers and even some female mechanics and taxi drivers, despite backlash against women activists.

3. Women's Travel Freedom: As of 2019, Saudi women 21 and older can obtain a passport and travel without a male guardian's permission, easing the stringent guardianship system.

4. Open for Tourism: Aiming to diversify its economy, Saudi Arabia started welcoming tourists in 2019, previously limiting visas to pilgrimages and business. The Crown Prince also announced luxury resort developments. Nonetheless, strict dress codes remain enforced.

5. Gender Integration: Men and women are increasingly allowed to mix in public, with women joining men at football stadiums, concerts, and certain beaches. The once-rigid dress code has softened, and women are branching out into previously male-dominated roles in the workforce.