Voting starts in first Saudi poll open to women—AFP

In this Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2015 photo, a journalist makes her way in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Outside the Saudi capital of Riyadh, in one of the country’s most conservative provinces, Jowhara al-Wably is making history by running as a female candidate in upcoming elections. Saturday’s vote for municipal council seats marks two milestones for Saudi women: It is the first time women are allowed to vote in a government election and the first time women can run as candidates. AP Photo

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia—Voting began on Saturday in Saudi Arabia’s first elections open to female voters and candidates.

READ: Saudi women face off against men for first time in elections

Male voters began to enter a polling center in central Riyadh at about 8:00 a.m. (0500 GMT), an AFP reporter at the scene said.

Men and women vote separately in the kingdom, where the sexes are strictly segregated, but the vote for local councilors is a tentative step towards easing restrictions that are among the world’s tightest on women.

READ: Saudi women candidates begin first election campaign

Fewer than 10 men had arrived to cast early ballots at the center visited by AFP.

After checking their names on sheets of paper hanging on the wall and verifying their eligibility with elections staff, each voter made his choice on a ballet paper which they dropped into a transparent box.

Polls close at 5:00 p.m.