Female driving instructor teaches women to drive in Basra - in pictures

Noura Al Ali says her driving lessons are empowering

Noura Al Ali, centre, is a female driving instructor in Basra, Iraq. She teaches women to drive, which until recently was an unusual vocation in a city with conservative cultural and religious values. All photos by Reuters

Noura, 29, instructs her pupil in driving theory. 'I established the driving centre seven years ago,' she says. 'I only managed to prove myself in the past year in terms of societal and family challenges.'

Noura instructs a pupil behind the wheel. She says women drivers are becoming more accepted in Basra society.

'It's really nice that society started accepting these things (women driving) and supporting it unlike in the past,' says Noura.

'In previous years women were not as well informed, women did not have enough space,' she says. 'Now, following my interaction with women, I see that the situation is getting better.'

'Driving gives a woman a stable and strong personality and makes her fear nothing and does not make her rely on anyone in life,' says Noura.

As well as teaching women to drive, Noura's classes provides a space where they can openly discuss challenges related to rights and freedoms

Noura and her brother on their way to the Driving Training Centre in Basra.

More from The National:

Lebanon captured in stunning new perspective thanks to drone photographer

Remains of Egypt's former queen-consort moved to nearby royal tombs

Joy for Abu Dhabi schoolboy able to walk for first time