FROM POLICY TO PROGRESS: HOW VISION 2030 IS SHAPING WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT IN SAUDI ARABIA​

This study explores the transformation of women’s empowerment in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the nation’s Vision 2030 as a key determinant. It analyzes how government initiatives have evolved from policy frameworks to tangible progress in social and economic domains.  Using a quantitative approach, a five-point Likert scale questionnaire covering six constructs – Policy Support (PS), Personal Empowerment (PE), Economic Empowerment (EE), Social and Cultural Empowerment (SC), Leadership Empowerment (LED), and Economic Development (ED) – was administered.  Out of a targeted 180 participants, 141 valid responses were obtained. For the results of the questionnaire SPSS was used as research tool and along with trend analysis some regression model and analysis of variance ANOVA were used. The findings confirm that Vision 2030 has made a considerable difference to strengthening women’s participation across multiple sectors and that empowerment policies have socio-economic effects.  The research recommends future studies utilizing more advanced statistical tools and comprehensive datasets to deepen understanding and assist policymakers in further refining women empowerment strategies.