Saudi Arabia is witnessing pivotal transformations spurred by the significant rise in women’s economic participation. This dynamic shift is forging fresh opportunities for women and steering a new trajectory for the country’s healthcare sector. As more women assume various roles in the workforce, they have begun to hold substantial sway over financial decisions within their households, thereby challenging and reshaping established gender norms in the kingdom. Interestingly, over 91 percent of employed women in Saudi Arabia are now significant contributors to their families’ financial well-being.

This transformation hints at a future where women’s financial autonomy intertwines deeply with the societal fabric, initiating vital discussions surrounding women’s economic participation and the resultant impacts on family welfare and, by extension, the nation as a whole.

On October 18, empowerME Initiative hosted a workshop that catalyzed a nuanced dialogue that investigated the shifting roles of women within Saudi society, with a deep dive into the ripple effects this phenomenon had on the healthcare sector in particular. It highlighted the opportunities and challenges faced by the Saudi Arabian healthcare system—a sector that, despite considerable governmental investments, was still grappling with issues such as staffing shortages and limited access to mental health services.

By focusing on bridging gender disparities in the workforce and encouraging substantial legal and policy reforms, we sought to unveil the significant potential women hold to lead positive change—not only in the healthcare sector but also in the economy in general. Join the debate as we explored the pathways to fostering a society where women’s economic participation became a cornerstone in building a healthier and more prosperous Saudi Arabia.

Opening remarks

Dana Alajlani
Co-Chairwoman
The American Chamber of Commerce in Saudi Arabia

Featuring

Samar Nassar
Managing Director for Healthcare Services and Technologies 
Saudi Arabia Ministry of Investment

Fatimah Alhamlan
Consultant and Women’s Health Advocate
King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre

Basim Albeladi
Founder & CEO
Labayh

Naseem Almulla
Customer Excellence Director
Council of Health Insurance

Moderated by

Noor Osama Nugali
Acting Deputy Editor-in-Chief
Arab News

Follow the conversation on social media with @ACMideast and using #ACempowerME

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