Saudi Arabia’s First Female Biker Rides a Harley
Trailblazing Saudi woman isn’t waiting for laws to change before she learns how to ride her Harley!
Here in the U.S., we’re afforded certain freedoms that we often take for granted. But in many other countries across the world, life is much different. Especially if you’re a woman, and most certainly if you live in places like Saudi Arabia. Until 2015, women weren’t allowed to vote. And after finally overcoming that obstacle, they’ve now been granted the right to drive as well, beginning in June of 2018. Which, of course, means that we’re about to see an influx of Harley riding Saudi women.
The first, Maryam Ahmed Al-Moalem, recently prepared for the upcoming historical occasion by participating in motorcycle training classes at a Harley training center in Bahrain. Rather than waiting until June to learn to ride (and risk being arrested), Moalem chose to get a head start on the process by obtaining her training and motorcycle license in neighboring Bahrain. The avid enthusiast is already a member of both the Jeddah Chapter of Saudi Arabia and the Harley Owners Group.
“I was just looking for the time that we will be allowed to ride a bike,” Moalem explained to Reuters. “When I was a small kid, I saw some of my neighbors riding a bike and I wished to have this one day; riding a bike myself and riding my own bike. To be honest, I was hesitant with what people will say about the sport itself, because it was restricted (allowed only for) men. But after riding the bike I got many positive comments from people around me, especially friends. My family is encouraging me to do whatever I feel is comfortable and (whatever) I am passionate about.”
In a country ripe with female bikers, it’s hard to imagine this kind of repression still existing in the world. But ladies like Moalem are fighting to make these long overdue changes a reality. One Harley at a time!
Photos: Reuters Pictures Facebook
