Widely perceived as a Hindu spiritual practice, yoga was not officially permitted for decades in Saudi Arabia, the cradle of Islam where all non-Muslim worship is banned. But last November the kingdom finally recognised yoga as a sport, despite the risk of hardline opposition.

Saudi poet Hissa Hilal created a whirlwind in 2010 with her poems criticizing religious fanaticism. The documentary The Poetess follows her life after the uproar, in a Saudi Arabia undergoing great change.

Left to right: Urvashi Butalia, Ellen Harrington, Rokhaya Diallo, Karin Helmstaedt and Joumana Haddad

The #MeToo movement has been lauded as a catalyst for change. But what effects has it really had for women worldwide? A DW Arts.21 special brought international activists together at the Global Media Forum to find out.

For the first time in 35 years, Saudis can go to the movies again in their country, part of a drive to modernize the arch-conservative desert kingdom. Saudi blogger Dahlia Rahaimy told DW how important the reforms are.

Thanks to the courage of a few, Saudi Arabian women are now managing companies and will soon be allowed to drive cars. The documentary “A Silent Revolution” showcases Saudi Arabia’s female movers and shakers. Elizabeth Grenier talked to director Danya Alhamrani and producer Dania Nassief

The Quran calls for women to dress modestly, though interpretations as to what that means vary. Here an overview of the most common types of clothing worn by Muslim women.

Saudi Arabia has announced it will allow women to get a driver’s license without permission of a legal guardian. Learn about some other milestones women in the Islamic kingdom have reached through the years. – By Carla Bleiker