THE SOCIAL AND CULTURAL FACTORS INFLUENCING WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP: KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA

Abstract

The study aimed to explore the social and cultural factors influencing women's empowerment in entrepreneurship in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in light of Vision 2030. A survey was utilized as a tool for statistical analysis and was distributed among male and female entrepreneurs in Riyadh. The study found that educational and training services significantly impact the empowerment of Saudi women in entrepreneurship, followed closely by income improvement and women's sense of importance and status. Additionally, cultural factors and media also play crucial roles in empowering women in entrepreneurship. Legal challenges, customs, and traditions were identified as factors influencing women's empowerment in entrepreneurship. The study recommends enhancing dedicated educational and training services for women entrepreneurs, focusing on skill development, business management, and financial literacy. It also suggests implementing policies and initiatives to improve income opportunities for Saudi women in entrepreneurship, such as access to funding, business networks, and mentoring programs. Furthermore, it advocates for promoting the status and role of women in achieving social development and entrepreneurship through awareness campaigns and gender awareness programs, recognizing women's contributions. Leveraging media platforms to portray successful women entrepreneurs as role models and promoting inclusivity in entrepreneurship is also encouraged. Finally, fostering open dialogue and challenging customs and traditions that hinder women's empowerment in entrepreneurship is essential, aiming to create a more supportive environment for Saudi women