Empowering Women in Saudi Arabia’s Economic Development: A Vision for Equality and Inclusion

Saudi Arabia’s commitment to empowering women and promoting their participation in the country’s economic development was highlighted by Iman bint Habas Al-Mutairi, Deputy Minister of Commerce and CEO of the National Competitiveness Center. Her remarks were made during the “Equal and inclusive representation of women in decision-making systems” event, organized by the permanent mission of Saudi Arabia to the UN and international organizations in Geneva, in collaboration with the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.Taking place on the sidelines of the 53rd session of the UN Human Rights Council, the event was co-sponsored by the permanent missions of Denmark and Nigeria to the UN. Al-Mutairi addressed ambassadors and representatives of permanent missions in Geneva and the UN organizations, highlighting how Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 frames the economic transformation process.Vision 2030, directed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, prioritizes enhancing women’s participation in various fields at all levels across the Kingdom. Al-Mutairi emphasized the significant role Saudi women play in the country’s transformation and development, with their participation being a key goal of Vision 2030 to promote sustainable economic growth.During the panel session, Al-Mutairi was joined by Nicole Emeline, a member of CEDAW; Tine Morch Smith, the permanent representative of Norway to the UN in Geneva; Eghobamien-Mshelia Esther, vice chair of CEDAW; and UN Women representative Christine Arab. The session was moderated by Lama Ghazzawi, a member of the Saudi Human Rights Commission.Al-Mutairi highlighted the numerous initiatives implemented by the Kingdom to support women’s policies, resulting in more Saudi women occupying senior positions such as ministers, ambassadors, and members of the Shoura Council. In 2022, women held 41 percent of senior and mid-level jobs in the business sector, and over 9,000 Saudi women leaders were registered in Qiyadiyat, the national platform containing a database of Saudi women leaders.To further support women in the business environment, the Kingdom is committed to addressing challenges and enhancing success rates achieved so far. Initiatives include ensuring equal wages, implementing protection measures, providing childcare services, and launching the Wusool program, which covers 80 percent of transportation costs for working women.Earlier, Al-Mutairi met with Nicole Emeline in the presence of Abdulmohsen Majed bin Khothaila, the permanent representative of Saudi Arabia to the UN Office in Geneva. The meeting focused on exploring prospects for cooperation between the Kingdom and the CEDAW committee, emphasizing the significance of effective communication between the two parties. Discussions also centered on the developments and reforms achieved by human rights legislation in the Kingdom, along with Saudi Vision 2030 initiatives aimed at enhancing women’s participation in development.Saudi Arabia remains dedicated to promoting equal and inclusive representation of women, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the nation’s progress and future prosperity. Through continued efforts and initiatives, the Kingdom aims to empower women and provide them with equal opportunities in various spheres of the economy and society.