I think we also need to ask ourselves whether the obesity problem spreading out (no pun) in the Gulf is to do with a lack of available exercise options. It may be part of the reason, but is it a substantial part?

Is it really fair to say that the reason many women here are above their ideal weight is because they lack access to women's only gyms?

Or would it be fairer to say that gym attendance, even under socially agreeable conditions, just isn't something they are into?

I am starting to see why in Saudi this sort of development was ridiculed by Saudi women as a "Let them get fat" campaign.

Are these laws perversely aimed at discouraging women from attending the gym?