A growing number of women in Saudi Arabia are joining the workforce despite challenges in the traditional society, which is centered on families remaining true to their cultural heritage. However, Monera Ali Abdullah Al Nowiser, a female Saudi national, with the full support of her family, has managed to establish a successful and progressive career at Radisson Blu Hotel, Jeddah.
She joined the Radisson Blu Hotel, Jeddah in 2011 as a Meetings and Events Coordinator and proved to be a valuable team player, passionate about the hospitality industry. She was soon promoted to Assistant Meetings and Events Manager continuing to develop her leadership skills and knowledge of the industry, perfectly at home with making logical-based decisions to ensure optimum and most efficient results for the hotel.
“I grew up as a self-confident woman believing in my own capabilities and in the strength of women in general. Whenever I imagined my future, I could not see myself living the usual life of most of the Saudi ladies. I was different. I wanted to lead and be in charge of something big that would make me proud,” said Monera Ali Abdullah Al Nowiser.
Monera believes that, while the barriers for women lie in the country’s traditions and culture, the country is seeing significant changes. Most recently the Kingdom appointed 30 women to the consultative Shoura Council and the Ministry of Justice is now allowing women to practice as lawyers in court and, more importantly, they are now allowed to open up their own law firms. Progressively, the Kingdom is moving forward in women’s rights and their essential role in the development of the economy.
“Monera’s appointment to a managerial position is a combination of the drive from her and the support from Cluster General Manager, Shakeel Al Hamid, and we are incredibly proud of this achievement,” said Mark Willis Area Vice President Middle East and Turkey. “She is a positive role model for our Women in Leadership programme which has been created to build on our heritage of growing from within and overcoming the barriers that may be blocking women from developing into senior leadership positions.”
“The biggest challenge here in Saudi Arabia is the balance between work and home life. It is predominantly the women’s role to stay at home. Whenever a woman succeeds in handling this work-family balance, we need to be proud of ourselves and showcase it,” said Monera. I genuinely believe that nothing is impossible and anyone can overcome the challenges and one day I hope to become the first female General Manager of a hotel in Saudi Arabia. I hope my actions will inspire and empower other ladies.”
