The results of a survey of Saudis on women's issues, published by Gallup on Dec. 21, 2007, indicated that the majority of Saudi men were in support of women's rights. The poll found that 55 percent of men and 66 percent of women were in support of women's driving, 75 percent of men and 82 percent of women supported the right of women to work in any job they like outside the home, and 83 percent of both sexes supported the right of women to keep their own income for themselves. Commenting on the financial independence aspect, the report said it was surprising that Saudi men would support the rights of women on this issue, even though it is against their own personal interests. The poll also found that 66 percent of men and 79 percent of women supported gender equality in legal rights. The report said the concept of total equality means that women would have to relinquish some of their rights. In this case, they would have to share their income with men or give them some of their assets in case of divorce. Finally, the poll found that 66 percent of women and 52 percent of men believe that women should occupy leading positions in government establishments.
