The Great Divide Separating genders for school and other activities is not uncommon outside the western hemisphere. Sometimes it’s mandatory, sometimes it’s optional. Most often it’s based on religious preferences.
School building in United Arab Emirates with separate play areas. photo by Lauren Richards 2011
Boys playing on “their side” of the playground photo by Lauren Richards 2011
The women’s prayer room at the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, UAE. photo by Lauren Richards 2011
A screen covers the open door to the women’s prayer room photo by Lauren Richards 2011
In Malaysia, the public trains have separate coaches available for women only. It’s not mandatory that women use them, but they are popular. photo by Lauren Richards 2010