The Basic Law of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia does not guarantee gender equality. To the contrary, gender inequality is built into Saudi Arabia’s governmental and social structures, and is integral to the country’s statesupported interpretation of Islam, which is derived from a literal reading of the Koran and Sunna.1 In issuing religious opinions, state-funded ulema (religious scholars) generally avoid consideration of judicial precedent and evolving social contexts, so that their offi cial posture resists pressure for change, especially when it comes to controlling women’s behavior.