Because now, we can: The impact of the Saudi Vision 2030 on power, opportunity and the advancement of Saudi women in Academic Sector

Abstract

Saudi Arabia, as the guardian of the two Mosques, represents the centre of Islam, meaning that the country that must demonstrate the greatest respect for religion and customs. In other words, it is the leader among Arab countries. Due to this socio-cultural perception, Saudi Arabia not only shares many religious and cultural customs with other nations in the MENA region but also enforces Sharia law more strictly than others. As the strictest country from a religious and cultural perspective, Saudi Arabia has recently experienced a whirlwind of socio-cultural changes which have mobilized Saudi society. Following the launch in 2016 of Vision 2030, the country became a unique and ideal setting to study the changes implemented by the new decree, especially those related to Saudi women and their empowerment process. This study was conducted amid this series of social and cultural shifts, along with legal amendments to various laws to support women’s empowerment.