A new world of opportunity has opened for Saudi Arabian women and they are taking full advantage. The Kingdom’s goal to transform the Arab world’s largest economy along with their strategy to localize more than 50 percent of its military spending by 2030 has created job opportunities for Saudi women that previously did not exist. In true fashion, Saudi women are embracing these opportunities and showing the world just how strong, intelligent and capable they are. 

Many Saudi base defense companies have increased their hiring of women and have implemented policies to maintain the representation of females within their workforce. State-owned, Saudi Military Industries (SAMI), the country’s premier defense firm comprises a more than 22 percent female workforce and plans to maintain the representation of female employees at a minimum of 20 percent. The Kingdom mandate that foreign defense firms working within Saudi Arabia must spend their capacity building and talent development dollars domestically means that Saudi Arabian women looking to enter the defense sector have a variety of choices amongst employers and positions.

A notable joint venture that will bring even more jobs and opportunities is the joint venture between SAMI and Boeing related to helicopter maintenance, repair and overhaul support. This joint venture was discussed at the 2022 World Defense show and will provide further aviation support for the Saudi Armed Forces. Boeing and SAMI have had a strategic partnership for several decades. Partnerships like this will help SAMI to accomplish its core objective of nationalizing 50 percent of the Kingdom’s defense spending. 

Beyond opportunities, recent legislation has also worked to create equal ground for women as they enter the country’s workforce. Many companies have implemented policies requiring equal pay and promotion opportunities for female employees. Companies have also opened international opportunities to Saudi women and are looking to base raises and advancement on performance rather than gender or nationality.

These advancements allow the women of Saudi to step into roles where they can use their natural gifting to work on behalf of their country, something only previously dreamed of. 

As Saudi Arabia continues working towards growth, empowerment and independence, utilizing the talented workforce that is our nation’s women will further the nation’s goals and strength of our country as a whole.

The Saudi Arabia government continues to make strides towards female inclusivity and empowerment. Through the World Defense Show, an international gathering amongst those in the world of defense & security, the Saudi government has worked to further women in defense by highlighting their vital role. Through the Women in Defense program featured at the 2022 show, women working in the world of defense were able to learn from, collaborate with and encourage other women in the field. Through an impressive list of keynote speakers and participants the voices of women involved in the defense field were amplified and their rightful place in the defense industry, further solidified. 

The Saudi Government has continued to position itself as a world leader in the defense realm, The World Defense Show just one of the major undertakings by our government to display the strength and capabilities of our nation. As our government continues to make advancements through international relationships, domestic prosperity and individual rights, it’s incredible to watch as the women of our nation are being utilized and honored for their intelligence, strength and skill.