Saudi Women Soldiers Stand In Guard During Haj In Mecca For The First Time

Mecca Women Soldiers: In a first, more than 12 female soldiers have become part of the security services, guarding pilgrims during the Mecca Haj at the birthplace of Islam, since April this year, according to media reports. One of the women soldiers said, "To serve the worshippers is a very noble and honourable task"

One of the Mecca women soldiers, Mona, decided to join the first group of the military and the first group of Saudi women soldiers in order to work in Islam's holiest sites where they would help to protect the haj, an annual pilgrimage.

The said soldiers reportedly dress in a military khaki uniform, loose trousers with a hip-length jacket, and a black beret over a veil covering the hair.

According to reports, Mona who spends her shifts roaming in the Grand Mosque in Mecca said that she was following the steps of her late father to complete his journey. Declining to give her family name, Mona added that she believes, to serve the worshippers is a very noble and honourable task.

Women Empowerment In Saudi Arab

As part of Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman's recent reforms, Saudi Arabia is reported to have seen changes in terms of economics, the reversal of some conservative practices and social issues. This has brought ease in foreign investments in the country.

One such reform plan, Vision 2030 has lifted the ban on driving for women, granted women more control over family matters and allowed adult women to travel without permission from guardians, according to reports.

Mecca And Madina Restricted For Foreigners

Saudi, for the second consecutive year, restricted abroad pilgrims from attending the haj owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing only its citizens and residents to offer prayer at the same.

Read: Women in Arab countries find themselves torn between opportunity and tradition