Saudi Women in Gig Work Environment: Perceptions, Practices, and Experiences

Proceedings of The 6th International Conference on Applied Research in Management, Business and Economics

Year: 2023

DOI:

[PDF]

Saudi Women in Gig Work Environment: Perceptions, Practices, and Experiences

Faris Khalil Alsaedi

 

 

ABSTRACT: 

This study explores how females in Saudi Arabia perceive gig work, mainly ride services such as Uber. A review of the existing literature identified pull factors (factors motivating individuals to embrace gig work) and push factors (factors demotivating individuals to embrace gig work). Most importantly, the current literature draws on the western context. National culture and individual preferences are profoundly influenced by historical and geographical context. To the best of the author’s knowledge, no systematic research has yet assessed the dynamics of gender concerning gig work in a religiously conservative society such as Saudi Arabia. The perspectives, experiences, and incentives of Saudi women with regard to online gig work could differ dramatically from those of Western women. Understanding the experiences of Saudi women in gig work is necessary if gig work is to encourage more Saudi women to enter the workforce to help achieve Saudi vision 2030. Therefore, this study will employ a qualitative methodology, using a single case study, to develop a greater understanding of social environments by assessing experiences and perceptions toward gig work among Saudi women.

keywords: gig work, women in gig economy, gender discrimination, Saudi Arabia