Women across Iran are increasingly turning to motorcycles as their mode of transportation, despite many being denied licenses. In doing so, they're challenging strict norms in the Islamic Republic.

Tehran

In Iran, more women are taking to riding motorbikes and scooters, despite facing significant social and regulatory barriers. While there is no explicit law prohibiting women from holding motorcycle licenses, authorities often reject their applications on religious grounds, citing concerns over modesty and traditional values.

Women like Farah Ahmadi and Zakhar Zaireh describe both the practical benefits and the personal joy of riding, but also acknowledge the risks and challenges, including potential hostility and legal consequences. Law enforcement officials have indicated that regulatory changes are required to allow more women to obtain licenses, as unlicensed riders currently risk fines and jail time. Many women view riding as a step towards greater freedom and equality.

Iranian women ride motorbikes in defiance of Islamic rules

These women are revved up and challenging established norms in Iran. They're just some of a growing number of women riding motor scooters, some without a license, in a country where authorities routinely reject their applications for one on religious grounds. Farah Ahmadi is one of them. FARAH AHMADI, Motorcyclist Translator, Iranian Journalist Translator Network The future of women riding motorcycles is like that of driving cars. Right now, women are really driving very well. I don't think riding motorcycles is a problem at all. We can do it completely legally. We can have our licenses. And just like driving cars or doing other activities, we can definitely do it. Ahmadi said some people in Iran have old-fashioned ideas and say women simply shouldn't ride. There is no official law banning women from holding licenses to ride motorcycles or scooters, but hard-liners argue that allowing women to ride violates Islamic codes of modesty and risks revealing one's figure. Ahmadi says she tones down her attire to better fit in while riding through Tehran. FARAH AHMADI, Motorcyclist Translator, Iranian Journalist Translator Network One of the challenges I have is that, when I style myself more in this way, it's because I want people to assume I am a man, which they often do. For example, when they pass by me, they'll say, excuse me, sir, where is such-and-such address? But one of my concerns is that if they realize I'm a woman, they might suddenly pass by me with hostility, do something that really throws me off balance, or something might even happen to me. For women like Zakhar Zaireh, riding on two wheels powered by an engine simply brings her joy. Its effect is also very uplifting and refreshing. Riding itself gives me a very good excitement during the day. Also, it really saves a lot of time, and this has truly had a significant impact on my life. Law enforcement officials have said that some regulations must change in order to issue licenses to more women. Currently, unlicensed riders face fines and possible jail terms. Many of the women who have taken to riding scooters and motorcycles say it's about the right to live in a freer society and equal rights with men.

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