Daijiworld Media Network – Riyadh

Riyadh, May 30: Hundreds of Saudi women are being held in abusive conditions in state-run care homes known as Dar al-Reaya, according to a Guardian investigation. These facilities, meant to "rehabilitate" women rejected by their families for alleged disobedience or moral misconduct, have been described as “hellish” by former detainees.

Testimonies reveal women face weekly floggings, forced religious teachings, sedation, virginity tests, and total isolation. Activist Sarah al-Yahia, now in exile, said women are often sent to these homes for simply resisting abuse. “If you're abused or pregnant by a family member, you’re the one punished to protect the family’s honour,” she said.

One woman said she was flogged for missing prayers and accused of lesbianism for being alone with another woman. Another, Amina (name changed), who fled domestic violence, said her conditions of safety were ignored after release, forcing her into exile.

Saudi officials deny mistreatment, saying women can leave freely and abuse claims are investigated.

While Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has introduced reforms like allowing women to drive and travel without male consent, rights groups say punitive control persists. Activists like Fatima al-Shwarabi and Manahel al-Otaibi have been imprisoned for supporting women’s rights online.

Despite high-profile reforms, these testimonies highlight the harsh realities many Saudi women still face under a deeply patriarchal system.