Prime Minister Saad Hariri led the welcome in Lebanon for King Salman’s decree allowing Saudi women to drive.
“Congratulations to all Saudis, way ahead for more progress and modernity,” he tweeted.
Iqbal Doughan, president of the Lebanese Women Council, said the decision was “excellent and promising for the Kingdom in terms of women’s empowerment.
“This move shows that there are young leaders in the kingdom who are on the same wavelength as the global trend, in terms of women’s status; we encourage this move and congratulate Saudis.”
Doughan pointed out that Saudi women were well-educated and already involved in public affairs. “I congratulate my Saudi friends on this achievement ... this is the result of their serious and open-minded leadership mentality.”
Fahmia Sharafuddin, a university professor and women’s rights advocate, said the decision was “a very important one that preserves more the privacy of women.” She had many Saudi friends and was happy for them, she said. “This is a first step toward seeing Saudi women as independent entities capable of protecting themselves… it is a very important step.”
The Arab Women’s Council, led by Lina Al-Daghlawi Moukarzel, congratulated Saudi women. “The Saudi leadership confirmed through this royal decree the empowerment and support of Saudi and Arab women for an active participation in building communities,” Moukarzel said.