Saudi Arabian religious authorities have opened the door to women riding bicycles — but only in certain areas and only if dressed in full head-to-toe abaya garb.
They also have to be accompanied by a male, The Associated Press reports.
Women are not allowed to drive any vehicle under Saudi’s hardline Islamic interpretation. What triggered the lifting of the ban on bicycle-riding is still unclear.
One other caveat of the new policy: Women can’t use bikes for transportation. They may ride them “only for entertainment,” and they should avoid areas populated by men in order “to avoid harassment,” AP says.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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