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Advancing women’s equality in Saudi Arabia

Workforce Participation

​By Mansour Baker, SHRM-CP     |     Posted 03 December 2019

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Introduction
Saudi Arabia has so much to offer. The country has the largest economy in the Arab world and the Middle East, and its strategic location connects Asia, Europe and Africa. It also sits on the Asia-to-Europe trade route, which is responsible for 12 percent of global container trade. Saudi Arabia is a member of the G20 and assumed the 2020 G20 Presidency as of 01 December 2019.

The G20 countries have committed to reduce the gender gap by 25%

G20 Women’s Empowerment

​The G20 countries have committed to reduce the gender gap by 25% in labor participation by 2025, which would bring more than 100 million women into the labor workforce.
 
The gender gap in Saudi Arabia is 45.7% between men and women, the highest in the G20 member countries.

G20 Gap Indicators

Source: ​OEDC Labor Force Participation rate by gender, 2018

Saudi Arabia Women Equality - Workforce Participation

​Saudi Arabia have made progress toward gender equality in some areas (health and education), but inequality remains high. The proportion of seats held by Saudi women in the Consultative Assembly are 30 (20%) of 150 members. The current workforce participation rate of 23.2% (Q2 2019) is low in comparison with the world average rate of 48.5%.

As Saudi Arabia aligns itself to global standards under Vision 2030 we may see more women not only joining the workforce, but taking on leadership roles. The goal is to increase women’s participation in the workforce to 30% in line with Vision 2030. Women account for more than 42 percent of the Saudi population. 

To achieve greater gender equality, all key stakeholders need a systematic approach

Targeted Areas

Four Targeted Areas

To achieve greater gender equality, all key stakeholders need a systematic approach on a range of programs by companies, communities, and government. 

There is no off-the-shelf solution. We need to adapt several targeted areas to drive impact.

Invest in Human Resources
Invest in human resources to improve skills, experience, and knowledge of Saudi women. Raising women’s skills for the future of work.

Create Career & Economic Opportunities
Women need career opportunities if to realize their full potential and pathways into leadership roles. Putting in place a positive supporting environment to unlock opportunities for women-owned businesses.

Leverage Technology
Technology has spread throughout Saudi Arabia and may open doors to women, helping to overcome current challenges. Technology priorities to create women-friendly products to raise awareness and empower businesses.

Culture & Attitudes
Efforts are needed to change the culture and widespread attitudes about women’s role in the workforce. Even if women are unable to undertake full-time jobs, flexible work practices and government policies should be in-place to encourage employment and participation that drive progress towards gender equality.

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