New Face Of Saudi Arabia: Veil-Free To Gender Equality

There are new faces that are starting to dare to be shown by the people of Saudi Arabia, especially in the capital Riyadh. As recently circulated, a number of media display photos to videos of some Arab women who no longer wear the veil and even free to move without the typical Abaya.

These conditions indirectly prove that the city is no longer burdened with segregation rules and strict social practices. [Also read: Saudi Arabia allows women to perform Hajj and Umrah without a Mahram]

Free veils and abayas for Arab women
The Saudi government has officially relaxed rules related to the dress code of Arab women who were once synonymous with the veil and Abaya, a kind of long traditional clothing often worn by women in the Persian Gulf region, which was once even mandatory in Saudi Arabia.

The decision to free women from the mandatory rules of the veil and hijab has actually been enforced for a long time, precisely since September 23, 2022, as a momentum for the 92nd National Day commemoration.

This step was taken by the Minister of Defense of Saudi Arabia, Prince Khalid bin Salman, referring to the telegram of the Minister of Da'wah No. 66/5226/1441 H. In the circular signed by Crown Prince Khalid bin Salman, there are also four legal provisions that must be carried out throughout Arab society, namely containing orders related to the protection and respect for women so that their rights, especially gender equality, are maintained.

Since this rule was made official, it appears that at King Khalid International Airport, men and women are now standing in the same row at customs. In fact, it is clear that most women no longer wear the veil and some of them also do not wear abayas.

Saudi Arabia's New Vision For Gender Equality
Indeed, the” opening " of Riyadh as well as the suspension of many physical and social rules significantly changed the daily lives of local residents. Other countries also view Saudi Arabia is now more flexible to the Times.

This is due to the vision of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2016, who launched several transformative projects and initiatives to drive the success of a country. Thus, the new face of Saudi Arabia is part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.

In essence, the purpose of the new policy is inseparable from modern views that seek to eliminate gender discrimination in the hope of being able to balance the balance and harmony of women and want to realize programs so that Arab women can also contribute to the progress of the country.

Women Are Able To Work
Mixing of men and women is becoming more common and the religious police are nowhere to be seen. Today women will be more involved in working life.

The Government of Saudi Arabia has also issued a labor regulation called Nitaqat. The directive requires Saudi companies to employ a limited number of local people, including women, in their workforce.

As is well known, in the past ten years, most workplaces were dominated by men. Looking at the modern revolution today, it is necessary to have a healthy mix of women and men in the workforce.

There is more diversity and inclusion is expected to maximize the new vision with the aim of the country's progress. Now all Arab communities really feel part of the change.

Saudi Arabia's investment in restoring cultural heritage and urban infrastructure has more than doubled since the launch of Vision 2030.