The Empowerment of Women in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Workforce

Beata Polok

Mariana Dussin

 

Abstract: This note examines the current legal reforms that are now enabling women to participate in previously excluded labour markets. It links these reforms to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims at reducing the country’s dependence on oil, promoting economic diversification through measures, including, among other things, creating employment opportunities for both Saudi men and women. The note concludes by discussing the positive impact of these reforms on society and religion at large in terms of empowerment and increased participation by women in the labour force, while emphasising the need for Saudi Arabia to balance its cultural heritage as it navigates this period of transformation.