Saudi Arabia’s vision 2030 has placed a strong emphasis on women empowerment, making it a key reform plan and goal. Over the years, the contribution of women to the global workforce has seen significant growth, leading to a focus on creating more job opportunities for women in Saudi Arabia. Bunyan Academy, located in KING Abdullah Economic city, contributes to the development of the hospitality and tourism industry, fostering collaboration with EHL to deliver cutting-edge human capital development solutions through the VET by EHL program.
Together, Red Sea Global and Bunyan Academy have reached a noteworthy achievement in this ongoing partnership within the hospitality industry, which is the emergence of the first Saudi female butlers. In a recent interview, we had the privilege of gaining insights from these trailblazing individuals who mark a significant milestone in the evolution of gender roles in the Saudi workforce.
Enabling and empowering Saudi women in every sector, utilizing their skills and potential for the progress and economic prosperity of the nation, is a fundamental aspect of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. With the goal of increasing women's engagement in the workforce to 30% by 2030, Saudi Arabia is committed to providing opportunities and support for women to thrive professionally.
Women Empowerment in Saudi Arabia's hospitality industry
Just five years ago, women in Saudi Arabia faced significant barriers when it came to working in hospitality companies, as many Saudi families frowned upon this sector. Women had to go to great lengths to persuade their families to allow them to study or work in hospitality and tourism. Family support and trust played a vital role in women's decision to join this industry, and from the family's perspective, education, and healthcare were considered the top choices for women's work.
The Saudi government is actively working towards empowering women to take on leadership positions in both public and private sectors. In a bid to promote gender equality, the government has made it mandatory for companies in the tourism and hospitality sector to hire women in all departments. As a result, Saudi women now make up 22% of the total workforce in this sector (Ministry of Tourism, 2020).
Today, women in Saudi Arabia are making their mark in the field of hospitality management after participating in rigorous training programs.
The Ministry of Tourism and multiple Giga Projects, with the partnerships of several local and international institutions and universities, have been funding initiatives designed to meet the needs of the Kingdom’s burgeoning hospitality labor market. And many of those participating in a range of training programs have gained invaluable practical experience in the industry while learning relevant hospitality and management skills.
The first Saudi female butler trained at Bunyan Academy
The advancement of women's empowerment in Saudi Arabia is evident through the growing array of job opportunities for women across various sectors. As part of this commitment, Red Sea Global (RSG) is on a journey to establish itself as a pioneer in vocational training, with a focus on transforming lives and challenging stereotypes. They have followed a holistic approach to talent development starting from program design (tailored educational programs, never seen before, backed up with global accreditations), to strategic partner selection, talent oversight, and securing job placements post-graduation, employing a comprehensive approach that ensures Saudi talents are not only trained but also thrive in their future roles at the Red Sea Project and its destinations.
Specifically, Bunyan Academy, located in KING Abdullah Economic city, contributes to the development of the hospitality and tourism industry, fostering collaboration with EHL to deliver cutting-edge human capital development solutions through the VET by EHL program.
Together, Red Sea Global and Bunyan Academy have reached a noteworthy achievement in this ongoing partnership within the hospitality industry, which is the emergence of the first Saudi female butlers. In a recent interview, we had the privilege of gaining insights from these trailblazing individuals who mark a significant milestone in the evolution of gender roles in the Saudi workforce.