Saudi GazetteSaudi women have seen drastic changes occur in their lives regarding rights and their place in the workforce. The significance of their role in society and contribution to development and economic growth is unquestionable. “I have nothing to fear and I believe I am capable of anything and it's all thanks to our beloved guardian. None of this would have been possible without him,” said Ghalia Edrees, an interior designer and owner of Al-Ghalia Interiors.“I have immense gratitude and appreciation for our King's support. He has truly given us the confidence to believe in ourselves and our ability to do whatever we want,” said columnist Ameera Kashgari, who believes there is still much to be done but concedes that King Abdullah has given Saudi women more rights and opportunities in seven years than they have seen in a lifetime.“Our recognition in the workforce has helped us gain the confidence we needed to make a name for ourselves in virtually every field,” added Kashgari.One of the most important laws passed in favor of women was the Royal decree that banned men from selling lingerie in stores throughout the Kingdom. A similar law is set to come into force for the sale of cosmetics and perfumes.“I have always wanted to employ women in my shop because my customers constantly complained about the salesmen I had. Now I have employed women and everyone is more comfortable and my shops are making more money,” said Salma Al-Ghamdi, an owner of a lingerie shop.Princess Hailah, head of the women's branch of the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the care the King is showing is instilling a sense of pride and honor in every citizen. “Women specifically cannot be more thankful, no words can truly describe how we feel.” Development, whether economic, social or industrial, has been the defining theme of King Abdullah's rule. Even the industrial sector has recognized the importance of women in the workplace and has, for the first time, employed women in factories. Olfat Kabbani, deputy chairman of the Industrial Committee at the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, believes social responsibility is the essence of development and the King's emphasis on women has enhanced the community's sense of social responsibility.“I am confident things will fall into place in the next decade and women will be key participants in each and every field,” said women's rights activist and professor of women's history at King Saud University Hatoon Al-Fassi. __
