Saudi businesswomen recently expressed their concern to Arab News regarding the role of women in the country’s economy, indicating that females should break all the barriers in that regard and the government should stand up with them.

Saudi female entrepreneurs claim that it is not only their right to enter the real estate auction market, but the sector also needs their input and investments. They stressed that there’s a need to increase investments in the real estate sector and raise the traditional competition in ways that respect the Saudi society’s traditions and norms.

Real estate investor and businesswoman Thoraya Kurdi says that women face many challenges in business, particularly because they are patronized and exploited by men. “We are also battling the overly protective families and male instincts to possess women,” she explained.

She stressed they need to establish a specialized training center under the umbrella of a governmental body to direct businessmen and women to real estate investment in the proper ways. “We need to protect the money and reserves of our fellow citizens so they don’t seek investments abroad,” Kurdi explained.

Kurdi takes pride that a Saudi woman, Kalamty Al-Dilijan, struggled to open up the first woman real estate office located in the Eastern Province, challenging many difficulties. “It’s important to thank businessmen and real estate investors who support women and their input in all fields, particularly publicly vocalizing women’s right to attend public real estate auctions,” she added.

Kurdi’s attempts to take part in many real estate auctions around the Kingdom where shunned by the lack of a mahram (legal guardian).

Kalamty Al-Dilijan, owner of the first real state office in the Eastern Province, has never been to an auction. “I hope they allocate a specific venue for women, connected to the men’s room throughout the closed circle where they can take part at the event and place their bids.”

In turn, businesswomen Muna Nkhelain believes that Saudi society needs a better education and knowledge when it comes to real estate auctions and to open the opportunity for women to exercise their right to participate in these events. “Advertising these auctions in local newspapers and sending private invitations to businesswomen will allow for a greater female participation,” Nkhelain said.