The Economy of Saudi Arabia
Women, Youth and Social Change
Reforms since 2016 let women drive and join the workforce, and female participation has risen sharply.
Social change supports the economy.
Driving
Women were allowed to drive in 2018.
Work
Female labour force participation has risen from around 20 per cent to more than 30 per cent.
Entertainment
Cinemas and concerts, once banned, are now open.
Impact
More workers and consumers help growth.
A first job
A young Saudi woman starts a career in retail or tourism that was hard to access a decade ago.
Ignoring social change when studying the economy
Society shapes labour supply.
Key takeaways
- Women can drive.
- Participation is up.
- Entertainment reopened.
- Growth benefits.
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