In Ancient Greek mythology there is a nation called Amazon made up entirely of female warriors where no males are allowed to reside. Surprisingly it is an idea that seems to have struck a chord with officials in Saudi Arabia writes Caroline Davies:

• Saudi Arabia is planning an industrial city where only females would be allowed to work.
• The Saudi Arabian Kingdom is famously conservative and strictly limits the rights of women.
  • Females, for example, are not allowed to drive.
• By creating a separate city for women, the Kingdom is hoping to create more opportunities for females, while maintaining the conservative principles that are deeply embedded within society.
• The first is to be built in Hofuf and is expected to create 5,000 jobs.
• Last year the government also announced that women would soon be able to vote in some local elections. The King is thought to be slowly working towards promoting equality.

To read more including other restrictions that Saudi women face, in which industries the Hofuf development will create jobs, the disparity between male and female employment in Saudi Arabia, why Saudi women are now allowed in lingerie shops, and what polls tells us about Saudi Arabian women, click here.

Source: The Guardian

Via: Marginal Revolution