By GHADAH SALEH | ARAB NEWS

ABHA: Saudi women have managed to overcome many hurdles that prevented them from taking up challenging jobs that hitherto were perceived as suitable only for men. Many women branched into new sectors and fields, proving that they are capable of doing such jobs. One of these key sectors is the travel and tourism field, in which many women are working nowadays.

Fatima Al-Ghamdi is one such woman who has been successful in the field. She works as supervisor of the women’s branch at a leading travel company in the Kingdom. Fatima joined Al-Tayar Travel and Tourism Company after earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Jeddah’s King Abdul Aziz University two years ago.

“Al-Tayar is the first company that opened a separate wing for women. The company offered job opportunities to graduates after starting a training program in sales, customer service, and accounting. The company was keen in arranging a separate office for women with all the required facilities in place,” she said adding that the company also conducts routine training courses that helps employees hone their skills.

Sara Abu Aisha, an economics major, works in the accounting department at Al-Tayar. She is of the view that it is essential to know the nature of people and their aptitude to work. “The travel and tourism sector is an ideal sector for Saudi women. However, because they are nascent in the field, it is essential to provide them with a comprehensive support system in the form of training and encouragement so they take up challenging positions in the sector,” she said.

According to Sara, work in the travel and tourism sector is very enjoyable. read here