Saudi Arabia outlines strategies to expand women’s roles at Global Industry Summit in Riyadh

The third day of GC21 in Riyadh included a panel on women’s leadership in industry, held during the conference’s Women Empowerment Day. The discussion, part of the Global Industry Summit 2025, examined how women’s inclusion can support long-term industrial development and national transformation plans.

Saudi Arabia outlined its approach to strengthening women’s roles in the sector. Assistant Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Planning and Development Dr. Abdullah bin Ali Alahmari said the country is working to widen opportunities for women in industrial fields and prepare workplaces for future needs. He reported that more than 100,000 women are currently employed in over 12,000 licensed factories.

Dr. Alahmari said efforts are underway to upgrade factory capacity and industrial infrastructure so companies can recruit and retain more female talent. He added that the ministry is coordinating with government entities, private-sector firms and international partners to align skills programs and support women entering technical and leadership tracks.

Panel participants said that countries that invest in women’s leadership, training and entrepreneurship strengthen their economic resilience and move more effectively toward industrial transformation goals. Several international industrial representatives joined the session, contributing observations on workforce development and inclusive growth strategies.