Another step towards gender equality; Saudi Arabia now allows women to joins army

Saudi Arabia has been touted as one of the most regressive and conservative regimes in the world, especially when it comes to women. But off-late, under the new ruler, King Salman and his son Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, the kingdom has undertaken a slew of reforms which have been hailed as steps in the right direction.

Now, the country has for the first time allowed its women to join the army as soldiers.

According to a statement by Saudi’s General Security division, women living in Riyadh, Makkah, al-Qassim, and al Madina can apply for the rank of soldier. The roles do not involve combat, but will instead give women the opportunity to work in security.

Women aged between 25-35 and having a high-school diploma are eligible to apply. Women married to non-Saudi nationals cannot apply for the job.

Saudi women have until Thursday to submit their applications as part of the process that includes personal interviews and tests.

This is the latest decision by the Saudi kingdom as part of its vision 2030 launched by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman.

Earlier, Saudi had allowed women to watch football games inside stadiums and permitted women to drive which will come into effect from June this year. Recently the kingdom had also allowed women to start their own business, without the approval of a male relative.