Saudi Arabia cracks down on women-only businesses

Abu Dhabi: Female inspection teams from the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development have carried out more than 1,000 visits in six months to women-only businesses to ensure owners adhere to work regulations.

Private schools, workshops and sports clubs were also visited, in addition to some small women’s projects across the capital Riyadh.

Inspectors recorded 100 violations, most of them related to employment of foreign workers in jobs restricted to Saudis and employment of men in jobs restricted to Saudi women, in addition to violations of the absence of work and medical insurance contracts.

The ministry said the work of female inspectors is not limited to issuing tickets, but also extends to professional counseling for female employees in the private sector and answering their inquiries related to rights and duties.

It stressed the inspection campaigns will continue throughout the year to follow up on commitment to the rules and organisation of the labour market.