Vision 2030’s transformative shift for women at heart of major global conference in New York

Special Vision 2030’s transformative shift for women at heart of major global conference in New York
Left-Right: Prof. Einas Al-Eisa, Dr. Maimoonah Al-Khalil, Prof. Hanan Al-Ahmadi, and Princess Lamia bint Majid. (Supplied)
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Updated 12 March 2025
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Vision 2030’s transformative shift for women at heart of major global conference in New York

Vision 2030’s transformative shift for women at heart of major global conference in New York
  • Prominent Saudi women share experiences, insights at UN Commission on the Status of Women side event
  • Kingdom at forefront of a social revolution shaping women’s futures in the region and globally, panel says

NEW YORK: The 69th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women in New York provided a remarkable platform to highlight Saudi Arabia’s dramatic strides toward gender equality and women’s empowerment.

A high-level side event, titled “From Vision to Reality: Saudi Arabia’s Story of Women’s Empowerment,” captured the country’s transformative journey over the past decade, offering an inspiring account of progress, challenges, and aspirations.

The panel featured a diverse group of women leaders who have been at the forefront of the Kingdom’s reforms and initiatives in advancing women’s rights across various sectors.

These prominent figures shared insights from their personal experiences, reflected on the pivotal changes in the socio-political landscape, and celebrated the milestones achieved by Saudi women under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Saudi Vision 2030, a national blueprint for future development.

One of the key voices in the conversation, Prof. Hanan Al-Ahmadi, assistant speaker of the Shoura Council, shed light on the legislative efforts and structural changes that have empowered women within the political sphere.

The council, Saudi Arabia’s legislative body, has played a pivotal role in shaping policies that directly impact women’s participation in public life.

Al-Ahmadi detailed how women have gained ground in the council, which now includes 30 female members, a 20 percent representation mandated by legislation. With this increased presence, the council has advanced over 200 resolutions focused on women’s empowerment, covering a wide array of areas from healthcare to employment.

This legislative change is part of a broader effort to empower women in leadership roles across all sectors. As Al-Ahmadi pointed out, Saudi Arabia now boasts female ambassadors, vice ministers, and high-ranking leaders across various governmental agencies — a testament to the country’s commitment to merit-based appointments where qualifications, rather than gender, are the foremost consideration.

“The number might not be as we wish. However, we focus on competency and qualification,” said Al-Ahmadi.

She added: “We don’t want women’s presence in leadership to be a mere symbolic presence. Women in leadership must have impact. So, I think that’s the focus in Saudi Arabia, and that’s why we have so many distinguished leaders . And the sky is the limit.”

Princess Lamia bint Majid, secretary general of Alwaleed Philanthropies, illustrated how philanthropy has played a crucial role in advancing women’s empowerment both within Saudi Arabia and across the globe.

The foundation, which operates in over 180 countries, has focused on initiatives aimed at empowering women through education, legal rights awareness, and economic opportunity.

Princess Lamia’s personal pride lies in the foundation’s Wa’iya project, which launched in 2013 to raise legal awareness among Saudi women about their rights. Through this initiative, over 12,000 women have been reached, with 2,200 female lawyers empowered to provide pro-bono legal services.

In addition, the foundation’s “Craftswomanship” project — Princess Lamia’s “own baby,” as she called it — has trained more than 3,500 women artisans, linking them to global markets and providing them with sustainable livelihoods.

“Those are ladies who are really preserving our culture, taking care of our history and tradition, and the funny thing is, they don’t understand the importance of the work they do on the community and on our vision and perspective,” said Princess Lamia.

“And when the Vision 2030 came, our visionary Prince Mohammed bin Salman, highlighted the importance of this culture and how this can be the most powerful soft power around the world. So we didn’t think twice, and we took this initiative.”

These projects reflect a broader movement within Saudi Arabia to embrace women’s contributions to culture and society, said Princess Lamia, a shift that has been supported by Vision 2030’s emphasis on economic diversification and inclusive growth.

Education has long been an area of strength for women in Saudi Arabia, and Prof. Einas Al-Eisa, president of Princess Noura bint Abdul Rahman University, the largest women’s university in the world, provided a compelling overview of how education has become a key driver for female empowerment.

Historically, Saudi women have outpaced men academically, with higher enrollment rates in schools and universities. However, despite these achievements, women faced significant barriers in transitioning from education to the workforce.

The arrival of Vision 2030 brought a dramatic shift in this regard, offering women greater opportunities in sectors traditionally dominated by men. As Al-Eisa explained, Vision 2030’s focus on women’s active participation in the workforce, alongside reforms such as childcare support and flexible working conditions, has made it possible for women to enter diverse industries like healthcare, ICT, and energy. Notably, women’s representation in Saudi Arabia’s ICT sector rose from a mere 7 percent to 35 percent, and the country is now home to women leading engineering schools and co-ed institutions.

Dr. Maimoonah Al-Khalil, secretary general of the Family Affairs Council, reflected on the data-driven approach of Saudi Vision 2030, which is constantly evaluating progress in real time to ensure that women’s empowerment is moving forward at an accelerated pace.

With women’s labor force participation soaring from 17 percent to 36 percent since 2016, and the unemployment rate for women dropping from 34 percent to 13.6 percent, Saudi Arabia is surpassing its targets ahead of the 2030 deadline.

The percentage of women in leadership roles, particularly in STEM fields, has also seen significant growth, underscoring the depth of the societal transformation underway.

Al-Khalil highlighted that these reforms, which are deeply rooted in Saudi Arabia’s values and culture, have led to a thriving and diverse economy in which women are contributing not only in education and healthcare but also as entrepreneurs, freelancers, and leaders in new, high-tech industries.

Reflecting on the broader socio-cultural changes occurring in the Kingdom, Al-Eisa shared her personal journey as a woman in Saudi Arabia before the reforms. She spoke candidly about the struggles women faced in achieving their goals in the past, when efforts often felt like they were in vain.

However, with the introduction of Vision 2030, this sentiment has dramatically shifted. “The trust in women has yielded magnificent results,” she said, stressing that the key to success lies not just in hard work but in having the support and trust of the system and society at large.

The reforms implemented under Vision 2030 are not only seen as significant within the Kingdom, but are also making waves globally.

Saudi Arabia’s growing political and economic engagement, including the appointment of women as ambassadors and ministers, is creating a ripple effect that is inspiring other nations in the region and beyond to follow suit.

The Kingdom is at the forefront of a cultural and social revolution that is shaping the future of women in the country, the panelists concluded.

From education and healthcare to politics, business, and beyond, women are increasingly occupying spaces once thought to be out of reach. Yet, as Al-Khalil noted, the work is far from over.

“The sky is the limit,” she said, reflecting the ambitious spirit of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing journey toward equality, empowerment, and progress.

Panelists said that transformative strides made by Saudi women over the past decade serve as a powerful example of what can be achieved when political will, societal transformation, and a commitment to education and economic inclusion align.

With Vision 2030 continuing to guide the country’s future, Saudi Arabia’s story of women’s empowerment is far from finished — it is only just beginning.


Saudi project restores historic Al-Hosn Al-Asfal Mosque in Asir

Saudi project restores historic Al-Hosn Al-Asfal Mosque in Asir
Updated 11 sec ago
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Saudi project restores historic Al-Hosn Al-Asfal Mosque in Asir

Saudi project restores historic Al-Hosn Al-Asfal Mosque in Asir
  • The second phase of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historic Mosques aims to protect Islamic heritage

RIYADH: The historic Al-Hosn Al-Asfal Mosque in the Asir region has been restored as part of a national project, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The second phase of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historic Mosques aims to protect Islamic heritage and highlight traditional architectural styles.

Built in 1760, Al-Hosn Al-Asfal Mosque was renovated to preserve its original design and geometric shape while restoring its sustainable features.

These include a rainwater collection system that stores water in the mosque’s reservoir and is used for ablutions, the SPA reported.

The mosque, designed in the Sarat style, covers 134 sq. meters and can accommodate up to 32 worshippers.

A notable feature is the Al-Manzala room, traditionally used to host travelers. Its construction features stone walls, which reflect the upper mountain villages’ urban fabric.

Adorned with white plaster, the mosque stands out from neighboring buildings. The Sarat style’s urban patterns are influenced by climate, topography and culture.

It is one of 30 mosques in 13 regions in phase two, including six in Riyadh, five in Makkah, four in Madinah, three in Asir, and two each in the Eastern Province, Jouf, and Jazan. The Northern Borders, Tabuk, Baha, Najran, Hail and Qassim each have one mosque in the scheme.

Phase two follows phase one, completed in 2018, which restored 30 mosques in 10 regions. Saudi companies and heritage restoration experts are leading the development efforts, according to the SPA.


Saudi charity drives support for mosque projects, Umrah trips and Zakat Al-Fitr

Saudi charity drives support for mosque projects, Umrah trips and Zakat Al-Fitr
Updated 35 min 26 sec ago
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Saudi charity drives support for mosque projects, Umrah trips and Zakat Al-Fitr

Saudi charity drives support for mosque projects, Umrah trips and Zakat Al-Fitr

RIYADH: The fifth National Campaign for Charitable Work, hosted on the Ehsan platform during Ramadan, continues to attract significant donations, focusing on mosque enhancements and worship services.

The campaign has funded more than 3,000 Umrah trips, built five mosques, maintained 46, and provided essential resources to 12, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

Donations can be made via ehsan.sa or the donor service center at 8001247000, the SPA added.

Ehsan has also begun accepting Zakat Al-Fitr donations digitally to ensure prompt distribution to eligible recipients across the Kingdom.

This follows the approved charitable methods of Ehsan’s Shariah Committee, chaired by Royal Court Adviser Sheikh Abdullah Al-Mutlaq, a member of the Council of Senior Scholars.

Donors can pay Zakat Al-Fitr via the Ehsan app or website, specifying the administrative region and the number of recipients. This is done in coordination with relevant authorities across all regions.

As part of the fifth National Campaign for Charitable Work, Zakat Al-Fitr distribution aims to empower the community during this season of giving and fulfill religious obligations, according to the SPA.

Supporting charitable initiatives, King Salman donated SR40 million ($10.6 million), while Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman contributed SR30 million for the fifth campaign. So far, total donations have exceeded SR1 billion.

This achievement reflects Saudi society’s commitment to unity, solidarity, and compassion during Ramadan. Contributions have come from individuals, companies, institutions, and philanthropists.

The 2024 campaign has raised more than SR1.8 billion through 15 million transactions, reinforcing the Kingdom’s leadership in charitable work and sustainable development.


Saudi project clears 552 Houthi mines in Yemen

Saudi project clears 552 Houthi mines in Yemen
Updated 37 min 45 sec ago
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Saudi project clears 552 Houthi mines in Yemen

Saudi project clears 552 Houthi mines in Yemen

RIYADH: Members of Saudi Arabia’s Project Masam removed 552 explosive devices from various regions of Yemen last week.

The total included 513 unexploded ordnances, 35 anti-tank mines and four explosive devices, according to a recent report.

Ousama Al-Gosaibi, the initiative’s managing director, said a total of 485,501 mines had been cleared since its inception in 2018.

The explosives were planted indiscriminately and posed a threat to civilians, including children, women and the elderly.

The demining operations took place in Marib, Aden, Jouf, Shabwa, Taiz, Hodeidah, Lahij, Sanaa, Al-Bayda, Al-Dhale and Saada.

The initiative trains local demining engineers and provides them with modern equipment. It also offers support to Yemenis injured by the devices.

Teams are tasked with clearing villages, roads and schools to facilitate safe movement for civilians and the delivery of humanitarian aid.


More than 400 foreign trucks face fines in KSA

More than 400 foreign trucks face fines in KSA
Updated 41 min 11 sec ago
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More than 400 foreign trucks face fines in KSA

More than 400 foreign trucks face fines in KSA

RIYADH: The Transport General Authority fined more than 400 foreign trucks in several regions of the Kingdom between March 16 and 21 for regulatory offenses.

The actions were part of the authority’s field campaigns on land transport activities aimed at enhancing compliance with regulations and laws, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

The authority reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy, which imposes a SR10,000 ($2,666) fine and a 15-day impoundment for first-time offenders.

Repeat offenses incur escalating penalties: SR20,000 and 30 days for the second offense, SR40,000 and 60 days for the third, SR80,000 and 60 days for the fourth, and SR160,000 and 60 days for the fifth. Persistent offenders risk having their vehicles confiscated.

These nationwide campaigns enhance transport oversight, ensure fair competition, and support the national carrier, according to the SPA.

The authority has established four key regulations for foreign truck operations: obtaining an electronic transport document via “bayan.logisti.sa,” limiting transport to return journeys, complying with local carrier rules, and settling offenses before entry or exit.


From sahoor drums to online apps: Ramadan through the eyes of 3 generations of a Pakistani family

Mahmood Ahmed Hashmi (second right) and his family at iftar during Ramadan in Islamabad, Pakistan. (Screengrab/AN)
Mahmood Ahmed Hashmi (second right) and his family at iftar during Ramadan in Islamabad, Pakistan. (Screengrab/AN)
Updated 22 March 2025
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From sahoor drums to online apps: Ramadan through the eyes of 3 generations of a Pakistani family

Mahmood Ahmed Hashmi (second right) and his family at iftar during Ramadan in Islamabad, Pakistan. (Screengrab/AN)
  • Digital age has significantly altered how holy month is observed, offering spiritual engagement through apps, social media, and online platforms
  • Mobile apps have become indispensable tools for Muslims worldwide during Ramadan, whether to check prayer timings or order food

ISLAMABAD: The clatter of plates, spoons, and forks filled the air as Mahmood Ahmed Hashmi, 67, broke his fast earlier this week at his home in Islamabad, seated with his three sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren around a large, colorful tablecloth spread on the floor.

Ramadan traditions and practices evolve across generations, influenced by changing demographics, lifestyles, media and digital apps, while retaining the core spiritual elements of fasting, prayer, and charity.

As in other parts of the world, the digital age has also significantly altered how Ramadan is observed by Pakistani families, offering new avenues for spiritual engagement, community connection, and resource access through apps, social media, and online platforms.

FASTFACT

Digital age has significantly altered how holy month is observed, offering spiritual engagement through apps, social media, and online platforms.

Hashmi, a retired civil servant, detailed how Ramadan has changed through the generations of his family, beginning with the tradition of Ramadan drummers walking through the streets, beating drums to wake people for the pre-dawn meal (sahoor) before fasting began for the day. Once a typical feature of the holy month, the tradition’s usefulness has been eclipsed by TV, mobile phones, and alarm clocks.

“In those days, the elders used to come out in the neighborhood to wake up people for sahoor,” Hashmi told Arab News at iftar. “They used to do some drumming and other things so that people could get up, but now you have everything in your cell phone.”

Mobile apps have become indispensable tools for Muslims around the world during Ramadan, offering features such as prayer time reminders, Qur’anic recitations, and fasting trackers, ensuring accurate timing and accessibility.

While many people used to visit neighborhood or community religious gatherings earlier, now platforms such as YouTube and TikTok host Islamic scholars and influencers who share daily Ramadan reflections, Qur’anic tafseer (exegesis), and tips for spiritual growth, making Islamic education more accessible, especially for younger Muslims.

Social media platforms have also become main avenues for sharing Ramadan greetings, exchanging recipes, and discussing spiritual reflections.

Handwritten Eid cards, once widely exchanged among friends and relatives ahead of the post-Ramadan Eid Al-Fitr festival, are now a rarity in the age of digital greeting cards shared on Whatsapp and other messaging platforms, Hashmi lamented.

“How good the feeling used to be to get Eid cards from your loved ones,” he said. “Your near and loved ones used to wait for them. People used to display them in their drawing rooms or bedrooms. Now a picture (card) will come (on mobile phone).”

Iftar and sahoor meals would also be made entirely at home, or with snacks and food bought from neighborhood eateries, and would be consumed as a family, while food was now increasingly ordered from online apps as per individual choices, Hashmi added.

While the retired official regrets the decline in many of the Ramadan customs of his youth, his son Miraj Mustafa Hashmi, a professor at the National University of Sciences and Technology, said digital innovations such as mobile apps have streamlined everyday rituals, while still nurturing cherished Ramadan traditions.

“Apps like FoodPanda have replaced traditional market trips for iftar (items),” Miraj said, explaining that this was beneficial for people who did not have the luxury of time due to jobs and other responsibilities.

“It is a digital era, things are going on like that and people are comfortable in it. I think it is a very positive change … because people like us have to stay in the office all day and work … Obviously, we want to go to the market but the pressure of work and the load is there.”

Digital platforms and apps have also made it easier for people to donate to charity and support those in need, a core aspect of the holy month, Miraj said.

For his 10-year-old son Ibrahim, a student who began fasting at the age of 7, Ramadan is about being able to order his favorite dishes online and checking the internet for iftar and sahoor timings.

“I love having noodles, pizza, macaroni, samosas, pakoras, and jalebis for iftar,” Ibrahim said.

But was there anything Miraj missed about the way Ramadan used to be observed?

Relatives and friends used to meet each other more often at Ramadan events when they did not have the luxury to connect through video calls, he said.  

“When I think of my childhood, we used to go to social events, we used to go shopping with our grandparents, we used to do all these activities.

“If we see, our parents spent a very tough life due to limited facilities, but they made it a little easier (for us) and our children are living a much easier life and technology is helpful.”