There is strong support for increasing the number of Saudi women in the workforce with Saudi Arabia. The government has developed several initiatives with the goal of putting more Saudi women to work in both the public and the private sectors, and glass ceilings have been cracked open to grant qualified and capable women high level positions that were previously held for men. However, a number of women who have entered the workforce have opted to abandon it and take the risk to start their own enterprises. Here are some of the reasons the women (who asked to remain anonymous) have given for taking this step.
“I got tired of having to work when my children were on a break. It meant that I had to leave them with someone else, even when they were ill. So I decided to do something that allowed me more flexible hours. I started baking at home and selling cakes and cookies via social media and at bazaars. I don’t make as much money as I used to, but I used to spend a lot on childcare and transportation, so it kind of evens out.”
“I worked for an architectural firm. I was frustrated by the fact that my designs and suggestions were always met with ‘not bad for a woman’, so the second time a man took credit for my work, I resigned. Now I’m working on several freelance projects, and I love the control I have over things.”
“I had a job in retail, and had to work shifts. It was stressful, even though I live at home with my parents, to be gone such long hours, and to arrange the transportation, especially at night. My brother is in the US studying, so he started bringing me clothes and bags when he comes, and I sell them on social media. I make about the same as I did as a retail clerk, and work fewer hours.”
“I have a degree in Interior Design. My first job was for furniture and accessories shop in Jeddah, where I helped people to choose wall treatments, furnishings and accessories for their homes. The pay was low, the hours were long, and I was bored. A friend asked me to help her auntie redecorate a suite in her house, and they loved what I did with it so much, they started to recommend me to friends. I still work long hours, but the pay is better and I love what I am doing.”
