What Saudi Women Needed to Achieve a Leadership Position

Abstract

Throughout the years, Saudi Arabia has faced widespread gender gaps, discrimination, and inequality; however, due to 2030 visions, government reforms, and law changes, there has been an improvement in women's rights which has led to a significant increase in women's employment. Saudi women today are better educated, more informed, and more financially independent than ever, which has ushered in a rising process of women's empowerment. From interviews with eight Saudi women leaders, this paper discusses Saudi women’s leadership experiences and the various possibilities for improving women’s leadership experiences, such as social support, societal changes in cultural practices, and improving Islamic principles regarding women’s roles. Also discussed within the paper are recommendations including how education, training, Islamic religion, and self-belief would help Saudi women overcome some barriers to leadership opportunities.