A survey conducted by PwC Middle East reveals that women re-entering the workforce in Saudi Arabia face significant obstacles, such as having their job applications dismissed due to career gaps.

The “Navigating the Path Back: Women Returners in KSA” survey discovered that 52% of Saudi women experience resume rejections due to career gaps. Also, over 83% of Saudi women view returnship programs, which provide a structured pathway for re-entry, including training and tailored support, as crucial for their successful reintegration into the workforce.

The report explores the challenges women in Saudi Arabia face when returning to work after a career break. More than half (55%) of the women surveyed in Saudi Arabia had taken career breaks, higher than the 44% of their peers in the MENA region. However, only 40% of Saudi women were likely to return to work after a break, lower than the regional average of 43%.

Similarly, the survey found that the desire for financial independence was a key incentive for women returning to the workforce in Saudi Arabia (42%) compared to their peers in the MENA region (38%).

While many women are ambitious and aspire to return to work following breaks, more than half (60%) believe taking a break from work can negatively impact their careers.

“Saudi Arabia’s female workforce has more than doubled to 36% between 2017 and 2023, and maintaining this trajectory is essential to fulfilling the goals of the National Transformation agenda,” said Riyadh Al Najjar, chairman of the board and Saudi country senior partner at PwC Middle East.

Norma Taki, Middle East inclusion and diversity leader, transaction services partner, and consumer markets leader at PwC Middle East, added, “Saudi businesses must create a culture where women feel secure in taking breaks when necessary and where they are encouraged to make positive, impactful contributions without stigma upon their return.”

Findings also show women returning to the workforce after a career break could contribute $385 billion to the MENA region.