Saudi Women Now Allowed a Copy Of Their Marriage Contract

For the first time in history, brides in Saudi Arabia will be given copies of their marriage contracts.

The privilege has been one reserved only for grooms in the past and the move represents a small step towards improving women’s rights in the Gulf kingdom.

Justice Minister Waleed Al Samaani has instructed courts to issue two copies of the marriage contract so wives will also receive one.

The decision will be particularly helpful to women who face problems proving their marriages actually took place.

Many women who have married in secret have faced uphill legal battles after the relationships sour and their husbands deny the weddings took place.

It adds the new rule will also be useful for women who risk being deprived of inheritance and wealth after the death of their husbands.