RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has passed a law which prohibits domestic violence and other forms of abuse against women for the first time in the Kingdom’s history, a human rights official said on Thursday.
The law, approved by the country’s cabinet on August 26, prohibits physical or sexual violence both at home or within the work place.
Moreover, the law also provides treatment and shelter for victims of abuse and holds law enforcement agencies accountable for investigating and prosecuting allegations of abuse.
Under the law, those found guilty of committing psychological or physical abuse could face prison sentences of up to one year and up to 50,000 riyals (8,582.31 pounds) in fines.