Liberalizing Women’s Rights in Saudi Arabia: Powered by the Kingdom’s Economic Will

Abstract

Since 2017, women’s rights have increased significantly in Saudi Arabia, from being allowed to drive cars to no longer having to wear head coverings. Saudi women now have greater mobility, not only to travel freely, but also to participate in the political, economic, and social rights spheres. The question remains: Why did the Kingdom wait so long to advance women’s rights? The central question to be addressed by this thesis is, “What factors led to the liberalization of women’s rights in Saudi Arabia?” To answer it, I will argue that the Kingdom’s primary motivation is to increase labor participation and diversify its economy, thereby making the country more prosperous and reducing its reliance on oil revenue. To accomplish this, the Kingdom turned to women, who make up nearly half of its population, to help revitalize the country and its economy. Saudi Arabia’s economic rationale for greater inclusion of women has led the Kingdom to grant privileges and opportunities to women by way of making them valuable contributors to the country’s economy. The initiatives and policies impacting women have benefited both Saudi women and the country.