The Labor Ministry has warned owners of abaya and lingerie shops that punitive action would be taken against those failing to create suitable working conditions for Saudi women.
The ministry has appointed 45 female inspectors to check the shops.
“Shop owners are not allowed to employ men and women together,” said Abdullah Abuthnain, deputy minister for inspections and developing work atmosphere.
“We have set new conditions in order to create a secure work atmosphere for Saudi women,” he said.
He said the ministry would carry out regular raids to ensure that the shops were sticking to new rules.
Businesses found violating ministry directives may lose their commercial license.
They will be denied access to the ministry’s computer network, he said. The shops also may face closure.
He disclosed plans to restrict more jobs to Saudi women on a gradual basis.
Women inspectors to raid Abaya shops
