“This is the first time women were allowed to sit in the stands of the university’s stadium to attend a public program with men,” said Yasmin Linjawi, one of the female organizers.

“Although it was different from watching a football match between Ittihad and Ahli, it was a hilarious experience.”

Linjawi did not hide her affiliation as a strong fan of Ittihad Club and wanted to support her team sitting in a stand.

She also expressed her anguish for women not allowed to enter stadiums to watch football matches.

She demanded strict regulations to prevent the harassment of women at stadiums. The operetta at the opening ceremony did not reach the desired level of expectation as it failed to evoke new ideas beyond the folklore dances associated with GCC member countries.

However, KAU students who presented the musical program received a warm reception from the audience, especially the female members.

Ali Daaboush, one of the producers of the operetta, acknowledged the shortcomings and said it was presented with a lot of restrictions.

Abdullah Mahraji, dean for student affairs, said the participation of a 15-member delegation from Princess Noura University in Riyadh was one of the distinguished features of the event.

The girls from the varsity did not participate in the parade but presented their innovations, artworks and scientific inventions.

The popular souk was one of the major attractions at the event as well as the open dialogue between students of the 28 participating universities. Private universities were not allowed to take part.