(MENAFN- Muscat Daily) Muscat- The decision by the ROP to increase fines on women who drive wearing 'face veil' [niqab] has been welcomed. Muscat Daily spoke to some women who said the move seeks to ensure safety of motorists.
In Oman, unlike some neighbouring countries, driving while wearing face veil or niqab is illegal. Recently, ROP increased the fine on anyone covering their face while driving to RO50. The offence will also earn the driver three black points from March 1.
Earlier last week, Brig Gen Mohammed Awadh al Rawas, Director General of Traffic, had announced that the fine for covering one's face while driving has been increased. 'The law prohibits women from driving while wearing a veil,' he said.
The increase in fine is part of the amendments of the executive regulations of the Traffic Law, which includes the amendment of 13 traffic violations. Women drivers in Oman feel the increase in fine will not have a significant impact on them. 'I support the ban on driving with face veil and we are with ROP. This is for our safety and we trust our government when it comes to rules. Not many women in my area will be affected,' Yusra al Ghailani, head of Omani Women's Association in Sur, said. Rabaa al Jabri, head of Omani Women's Association in Samail, agreed.
'It is important for a driver to be identifiable while driving for safety reasons. Very few women use face veil in Samail so it won't make much of a difference.'
In Dhofar, women cover their faces as a custom. However, not many there drive. 'I am for ROP's decision to impose a fine on driving with face veil. This is for our own safety,' said a woman from Dalkout, who wished to remain anonymous.
Many women in Muscat governorate opine that face veil is neither a requirement to be a Muslim nor a symbol of respect. 'Face veil is not a requirement to become a Muslim and does not mean a woman would be respected only if she puts a veil on. I support ROP's decision to fine women drivers who cover their faces while driving. The rule has been brought about to ensure safety,' said Aziza al Habsi, CEO, Arabian Woman Media Company.
In another announcement, ROP has allowed Omani women to drive taxis from March 1. However, most women were reluctant to comment on the issue saying this was a personal choice.
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