Ideation Center Insight Dr. Mona AlMunajjed Women’s Employment in Saudi Arabia A Major Challenge Document Preview: Ideation Center Insight Dr. Mona AlMunajjedWomen’s Employment in Saudi ArabiaA...

Ideation Center Insight Dr. Mona AlMunajjed Women’s Employment in Saudi Arabia A Major ChallengeContact Information Abu Dhabi Richard Shediac Partner +971-2-699-2400 [email protected] Dubai Karim Sabbagh Partner +971-4-390-0260 [email protected] Riyadh Ghassan Barrage Partner +966-1-211-0300 [email protected] Dr. Mona AlMunajjed Senior Advisor, Ideation Center +966-1-211-0300 [email protected] 2 Booz & CompanyFrom international legislative commitments to NGOs EXECUTIVE dedicated to women’s welfare, Saudi Arabia’s policies and SUMMARY programs are promising steps on the road to women’s full participation in its labor market. However, women still make up less than 15 percent of the national workforce; this represents an enormous source of untapped potential for the Kingdom, whose labor force currently relies heavily on expatriates. Legislative, social, educational, and occupa- tional constraints prevent women from fully participating in the Saudi labor market. Overcoming these constraints will be essential if the Kingdom is to create a dynamic market economy. The introduction of sweeping reforms to the national educational system is a major step in preparing Saudi women for competitive jobs. Labor market reforms and labor law reforms—including legislation promoting gender equality and family-friendly mechanisms—should be seriously considered. In addition, Saudi Arabia should seek to create a supportive environment that encourages the design of programs to emphasize the positive role of Saudi women in the labor market and introduce women to senior employment positions. Booz & Company 1