Saudi fatwa bans use of phone while driving

A Saudi Islamic scholar issued a fatwa (religious edict) banning the use of mobile phones while driving, saying this is a great sin in Islam as it may cause disasters.

Ahmed Al Husseini Al Shahri, Imam (preacher) at a mosque in the Western Saudi Red Sea port of Jeddah, said motorists commit a big sin by speaking, texting or filming through the mobile phone while they are driving.

“This act is a big sin in Islam because it detracts the brain, heart and eye and could cause disasters,” he told worshippers at the mosque.

“Using mobile phones while driving amounts to disobeying God the Almighty who prohibits acts that will cause harm.”