In the wake of Women’s International Day, the transformative impact of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 on women’s empowerment has taken center stage. Reforms initiated by Vision 2030 have elevated the narrative surrounding women from striving for equality to achieving distinction and recognition in various fields. Saudi women have transcended traditional boundaries, emerging as leaders, innovators, and trailblazers, setting the stage for future generations of female leaders in the Kingdom.No longer content with seeking equality or equal opportunities, Saudi women are now aiming to excel in ideology, accomplishments, and innovation across all sectors. These women have become ambassadors, directors, government spokespersons, and much more, amplifying their voices both nationally and internationally.In February 2021, women in Saudi Arabia achieved significant milestones in the armed forces, with women serving as sergeants leading teams of soldiers in various branches, including the Saudi Arabian Army, Royal Saudi Air Defense, Royal Saudi Navy, Royal Saudi Strategic Missile Force, and Armed Forces Medical Services.Vision 2030 has reshaped the goals of Saudi women, propelling them toward leadership, influence, and the transformation of the Kingdom’s future. These women are driving financial growth, advocating for social reforms, and paving the way for future generations of female leaders.Beyond career opportunities, Vision 2030 has also reshaped Saudi women’s social lives, empowering their voices and ensuring their rights. Legal reforms have granted divorced women the support they need, including the establishment of an alimony fund and the removal of the requirement for a guardian’s presence in judicial departments. These changes have ushered in a new era of empowerment for Saudi women.
The ascension of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2017 marked a turning point, as promises made were transformed into tangible achievements. Saudi women now participate in the workforce, drive freely on the roads, and enjoy increased independence, particularly following the relaxation of the guardianship law in recent years. They benefit from legal protections, such as the sexual harassment law, and receive unwavering support from the government in pursuing their ambitions and holding high-ranking positions.In July 2020, King Salman issued a royal decree appointing 13 women to serve on the Saudi Human Rights Commission, marking a significant milestone in gender equality and amplifying women’s voices in the Kingdom.Saudi women are making significant contributions to the diversification of the Kingdom’s economy, with a notable rise in female entrepreneurs, business owners, and CEOs over the past decade. Dr. Maliha Hashmi, an executive director in the NEOM megacity project’s health and wellbeing sector, emphasized that Vision 2030 has provided opportunities for women to redefine traditional roles and positively transform societal expectations.Under the visionary leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia has made remarkable strides in empowering its women. Beyond the well-known achievement of women driving on Saudi roads, these reforms have led to increased ownership of high-tech startups by women and the appointment of female diplomats within the GCC. This wave of empowerment has also seen the rise of leading female executives, such as Dr. Maliha Hashmi herself, who serves as a role model for young women aspiring to make a difference.Vision 2030 has not only opened doors for Saudi women but has also broadened their horizons globally.
Women from Saudi Arabia now travel the world independently, free from the requirement of a male guardian, thanks to a decree allowing women over the age of 21 to obtain their own passports and travel freely.Moreover, the right to drive, granted by Vision 2030, led to the emergence of the first professional female racing driver, Reema Al-Juffali. The reforms have also fostered equal opportunities in the field of science, propelling women scientists like Nouf Al-Numair into the spotlight for their pioneering work in gene mutation-based early disease detection.Saudi women’s achievements under the umbrella of empowerment are a testament to the transformative power of Vision 2030. These changes are not just limited to the economic and social spheres but have also garnered global recognition. The World Bank Group’s “Women, Business and the Law 2021” report named Saudi Arabia one of the top countries for economic inclusion and women’s reform for the second consecutive year.Noura Al-Dossary’s story serves as a powerful example of the impact of these changes. As an orphaned and divorced mother, she found support and opportunities in a variety of workplaces, ultimately achieving financial independence and personal growth. Her journey exemplifies the resilience and determination of Saudi women, whose success stories may not always make headlines but are nonetheless integral to Saudi society.
Vision 2030’s rapid transformation, driven by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s leadership, is not just a domestic endeavor but a global force for change. It has empowered Saudi women to take the reins of their own destinies, fostering an era of female leadership and innovation that will shape the Kingdom’s future for generations to come.
