Women pop bonnets to train in trade - 19th August 2022

Women in Saudi Arabia are taking up new trades as the economy opens up to female labour, a change brought about through a drive to diversify the economy. Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman's programme to move Saudi Arabia away from its traditional dependence on oil reserves demands significant structural changes be achieved by 2030.

Having seen their right to drive return back in 2018, women are now able to get their hands dirty as mechanics, popping the hood and servicing vehicles just like their male counterparts.

This latest milestone's opened a new chapter for Angham Jeddawi.

Angham Jeddawi: "My dream was to enter the automotive field, but for a Saudi woman this field was not available. So when the opportunity came, I applied straightaway and was accepted."

Energised by the opportunity to learn a trade, these women also play a role educating their customers, as many still think it curious to see a woman working on their cars. Ola Flimban's happy to share her journey.

Ola Flimban: "At the beginning, they were all surprised. Some customers came up to me and said: "You shocked us, you surprised us". They are surprised that girls work in this field, and ask us to explain how we fell in love with this field. That is the most common question."

Despite this growth in rights and opportunities for women, accessing these roles still demands most obtain the approval of their husband to merely apply. Ola herself has received only praise for her achievements from husband Rafat.

Rafat Flimban: "Now she has experience in different car types, how to change oil, how to check cars. She's even checking my car."

Younger generations are unphased by the change in personnel, with drivers like university student Mechaal, visiting this Jeddah garage, taking it all in their stride.

Mechaal: "If they are here, it must mean they are trained. And maybe they understand my car better than me. So it's normal."