The participation of women in the male-centred Arab Spring drew considerable attention, given most of the societies involved adhere to a largely patriarchal power structure. In Saudi Arabia, many men and women, inspired by the uprisings in neighbouring Arab countries, attempted to negotiate power and space to change existing political and social norms (including gender norms). However, it is particularly notable that women’s movements comprised most of the Saudi protests during the Arab Spring (though not without resistance). Reforms led by King Abdullah have realized some of these demands, but not all. This article focuses on some female activists’ efforts to gain freedom of movement by analysing the campaign to lift the ban on women driving. This article is epistemologically based on Judith Butler’s performative agency. Butler’s theory presumes that gender is performed, and that this performance constantly renews a set of relations and practices. However, performative power may be exercised in multiple directions. Some women may aspire to equality with men, but, as Deniz Kandiyoti points out, women may also bargaining with patriarchy in that they may strategically operate within the constraints of patriarchal society to maximize security and optimize life options. This study, therefore, also pays attention to the theoretical frameworks of Deniz Kandiyoti’s patriarchal bargaining. This study attempts to illuminate women’s agency, strategy, and accommodation by examining a series of driving campaigns inspired by the Arab Spring. Importantly, it also gives voice to the silent majority by analysing the reactions of Saudi women who did not participate in the protests.