Government reforms under Vision 2030 drive record-high participation of women in business.

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — Saudi Arabia has emerged as a global leader in female entrepreneurship, ranking second among 51 economies, according to the latest Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) 2024/2025 report. With 23.2% of Saudi women engaged in early-stage business activity, the Kingdom outperforms the United States and nearly triples the rate of Germany, cementing its status as a powerhouse for women-led enterprises.

Among high-income nations, Saudi Arabia now boasts one of the highest proportions of female entrepreneurs, surpassing several advanced economies. In contrast, the US records 18.8%, while Germany lags at 7.6%. The report highlights that women in the Kingdom have increasing access to investment networks and support systems, enabling them to thrive in traditionally male-dominated sectors.

This remarkable shift aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a national strategy aimed at economic diversification and greater women’s participation in the workforce. Since the initiative’s launch, women’s labour force participation has surged from 17% in 2016 to 35.8% in 2024, exceeding the original 30% target set for the decade.

Reforms such as amendments to the Civil Status Law, which grant women greater autonomy in business and personal affairs, have played a critical role in this transformation. Additionally, institutions like the Babson Global Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership (BGCEL) at MBSC have strengthened education, mentorship, and funding opportunities for aspiring female entrepreneurs.

The private sector has also embraced these changes, with multinational firms and local businesses integrating policies that empower women in leadership and innovation. Many women-led startups in Saudi Arabia are now at the forefront of sustainability-driven business models, prioritising social impact and environmental responsibility.

While challenges such as cultural perceptions and leadership representation remain, Saudi Arabia’s rapid progress signals a fundamental shift in gender dynamics, positioning the Kingdom as a leading force in female entrepreneurship within the global economy.

Source: Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM)