Saudi Women Getting Keys to Car May Boost Toyota, Hurt Uber
- Toyota, Hyundai lead market opening up to half of population
- Uber may see demand drop from royal order on female drivers
Saudi Arabia Lifts Ban on Women Drivers
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The ultraconservative kingdom of Saudi Arabia has issued an order allowing women to drive, ending a long-standing policy that’s cast an unflattering light on the country’s treatment of women. It’s also a royal opportunity for global automakers eager to make further inroads into the Middle East’s biggest economy.
Saudi Arabia’s move to open up its auto market to about half of its 32 million total population will have a profound impact on vehicle demand, driving habits and even immigration patterns in a country where low-wage immigrants from Bangladesh and the Philippines often work as hired drivers.