Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 represents one of the most ambitious socio-economic transformation plans in the Middle East, aimed at diversifying the economy, reducing dependence on oil, and creating a more vibrant society.
One of the core pillars of Vision 2030 is women’s empowerment, where legal reforms have been at the heart of enabling women to become more integral members of society, participate in the workforce, and assert their presence in various sectors.
For decades, Saudi women faced some of the most restrictive policies in the world. However, the legal reforms introduced in line with Vision 2030 have brought about a significant shift in how women are perceived and the opportunities they are offered. This article takes a closer look at the notable legal reforms that have empowered women in Saudi Arabia, marking a new chapter for gender equality in the Kingdom.
The Right To Drive
One of the most publicised reforms was the lifting of the driving ban on women in 2018. With Vision 2030, the Saudi government recognised that enabling women to drive was not only an issue of gender equality but also an economic necessity. The reform has opened up a range of opportunities for women, particularly in terms of employment. Women are now able to commute independently to work, access education, and participate in public life without relying on male relatives or expensive private drivers.
The economic benefits have been profound. Women can now contribute more effectively to the workforce, particularly in sectors such as retail, services, and logistics, where mobility is crucial. Ridesharing companies like Uber and Careem have also hired female drivers, further normalising women’s presence in public spaces and fostering greater economic independence.
Easing Guardianship Laws
A major aspect of the empowerment of Saudi women has been the easing of the male guardianship system, which previously required women to obtain permission from a male guardian for most of their major life decisions.
In 2019, several significant reforms were enacted to ease these restrictions. Saudi women aged 21 and older can now apply for a passport and travel abroad without the need for a guardian’s approval. This reform marked a fundamental shift in acknowledging women’s rights to autonomy and freedom of movement.
This change not only impacts women on an individual level but also paves the way for broader societal changes. By granting women the freedom to travel, the government has signalled its commitment to gender equality and has empowered women to explore educational and employment opportunities abroad. Women can now attend international conferences, pursue higher education, and engage in global business ventures without any undue restrictions.
Another groundbreaking reform was allowing women to practice law and become legal professionals. Historically, Saudi women were barred from becoming lawyers or representing clients in court.
However, the changes introduced under Vision 2030 have enabled women to obtain law degrees, be licensed as lawyers, and represent clients in legal proceedings. Today, Saudi women are working as public prosecutors, judges, and legal consultants, actively participating in shaping the legal landscape of the country.
This move not only provides more career opportunities for women but also ensures that women’s perspectives are represented in the justice system. Female lawyers and judges can play a crucial role in advocating for the rights of women, especially in personal status cases related to marriage, divorce, and child custody, where a nuanced understanding of women’s experiences is essential.
Family Reforms And Public Life
Vision 2030 has also brought about reforms in family laws to empower women in their personal lives. Changes to marriage and divorce laws have granted women more rights in family matters. Women can now register the birth of their children, act as the legal guardians of minors, and make decisions regarding their children’s education and healthcare. These reforms have provided women with greater authority within the family structure, challenging the traditional notion of male dominance in household decision-making.
Additionally, women can now initiate divorce and are entitled to custody of their children under certain conditions without needing the approval of their husbands. This represents a significant step forward in safeguarding women’s rights within marriage and ensuring that they have legal recourse in cases of domestic abuse or marital discord. Specialised courts and legal aid services have also been set up to assist women in navigating these legal processes, ensuring that they are treated fairly and justly.
The inclusion of women in public life and politics is another crucial area where legal reforms have made a significant impact. The Kingdom has taken steps to increase female representation in decision-making bodies. In 2013, King Abdullah appointed 30 women to the Shura Council, the consultative assembly of Saudi Arabia, marking the first time women had been included in such a body. Vision 2030 has built upon this milestone, encouraging greater female participation in municipal councils and other government bodies.
Women are now serving in prominent diplomatic roles as well. For instance, Princess Reema bint Bandar became the first female ambassador of Saudi Arabia, representing the Kingdom in the United States. This move reflects a broader commitment to empowering women in leadership positions and allowing them to play an influential role in shaping Saudi Arabia’s future.
Entrepreneurship And Work Place Reforms
Vision 2030 has also placed a strong emphasis on promoting female entrepreneurship. Legal reforms have facilitated women’s access to finance, enabling them to start and run their businesses without needing a male co-signer. The government has launched numerous initiatives to support women entrepreneurs, including grants, training programmes, and networking opportunities.
Women-owned businesses are thriving in sectors such as retail, technology, and fashion, contributing to the Kingdom’s economic growth. The increased support for female entrepreneurship aligns with the broader goal of Vision 2030 to create a diverse and dynamic economy where everyone, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to succeed.
Legal reforms have also targeted the workplace, aiming to increase female labour force participation as part of Vision 2030’s objectives. The government has set specific targets to boost female employment in the workforce from 22% to over 30%, a target that has already been exceeded, with female participation reaching 35.8% by 2024.
Key legal changes have included the removal of restrictions that limited the types of jobs women could pursue. Women are now allowed to work in sectors such as law, aviation, hospitality, and even the military, which were previously closed off to them.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development introduced regulations to ensure safer and more equitable working conditions for women. Companies are now required to provide women with appropriate workplace environments, including maternity leave policies, anti-discrimination laws, and equal pay mandates.
Moreover, the introduction of flexible working hours and remote work options has enabled more women to balance their careers with family responsibilities, thereby encouraging higher levels of participation in the workforce.
A New Narrative
The legal reforms introduced as part of Vision 2030 have also led to significant social and cultural shifts in Saudi Arabia. The easing of restrictions on women attending public events, concerts, and sports matches has been part of the broader effort to create an inclusive society. Women are now visible participants in cultural and entertainment activities, contributing to the vibrancy of Saudi society.
These changes are not merely about the enactment of new laws; they are about reshaping societal attitudes toward women. Vision 2030 aims to create a culture where women are seen as equal partners in the nation’s progress, and legal reforms are a crucial step toward achieving this goal.
The journey toward full gender equality is ongoing, but the progress made so far under Vision 2030 is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to building a more inclusive and prosperous future for all its citizens.