THE BUSINESS CHIEF INTERVIEW

here is no doubting the transformation sweeping Saudi Arabia . Powered by Vision 2030 , the Kingdom is undergoing massive change at every level .

It is a transformation impacting not only the economy as it ushers in a new era of diversification and growth – attracting foreign investment , and creating opportunities across multiple sectors – but culture and society too . And this is especially true for women .

“ Socially and culturally , Vision 2030 has been instrumental in promoting gender equality and empowering women in the workplace ,” says Reema Aref , one of the Kingdom ’ s first female lawyers and a Partner and Law Leader at EY Saudi Arabia .

“ Reforms such as allowing women to drive , travel without a male guardian ’ s permission , and participate in various sectors have been particularly significant . Moreover , the implementation of the anti-harassment law has provided essential protection for women in the workplace , fostering a safer and more inclusive environment .”

For Reema – who specialises in corporate and commercial law including Tax law and whose role is to provide innovative and impactful legal solutions to business clients – it is an especially exciting time .

The country ’ s commitment to gender diversity and inclusion has created a fertile ground for women to thrive in both the legal and business profession , and as more women break barriers and take on leadership roles , there is what Reema describes as a “ palpable sense of positive change and progress in the air ”.

“ It fills me with hope and inspiration to witness the tremendous possibilities that lie ahead ,” she tells Business Chief .

To understand just how impactful transformation has been , you need to look back 10 years when there were just 10 licensed female lawyers in the Kingdom . A decade on , and there are 1,000 , with women now representing 12 % of Saudi licensed lawyers .

A trained lawyer with more than a decade of legal experience , Reema is part of the movement that has inspired such change ; and as the first EY Law Partner & Leader in Saudi , she has been at the forefront of driving positive change for women both in the legal field and in leadership more generally .

“ Pursuing a career in law was not an easy choice , especially as a woman where opportunities for female lawyers were scarce at that time , but I was determined to make a difference … to make a positive impact on society and to advocate for fairness and equality .”

In the years since , the former legal corporate investigator for Saudi Aramco has witnessed the transformation of the workplace , where more women are breaking barriers and stepping into leadership roles with confidence and competence .

“ Women are now leading important initiatives , making critical decisions , and

20 November 2023