Nationality for children of non-Saudi fathers under Shoura study

By Mariam Al-Sagheer RIYADH — The Shoura Council is considering a proposal to grant nationality to children of a Saudi mother and a non-Saudi father, according to Shoura member Latifah Al-Shalan. “We must review some of the old laws. The nationality law has been amended a few times even though it has been in place for 60 years. Things have changed since then. The country has developed,” said Al-Shalan. She said that the Shoura must look into the problems faced by the children of Saudi mothers and non-Saudi fathers. Those who joined Al-Shalan in this study are Ata Al-Subaiti, Haya Al-Minai, Wafa Taibah and Thurayah Ubaid. “We have consulted legal experts who have given references to Islamic laws and principles of justice, equality and protection of human rights,” said Al-Shalan. She said the study focuses on granting nationality to only the children of Saudi mothers, not to non-Saudi husbands. “More and more Saudi women are marrying foreigners. This is a worrying trend. We must protect our social fabric. Saudi women should have the right to grant their children Saudi nationality,” said Al-Shalan. Currently obtaining Saudi nationality is based on a point system.