Introduction
Governments develop superior programs and policies that have the potential to influence economic performance or development. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has been on the frontline to promote laws and initiatives that continue to transform the lives of many citizens. The region’s growth has increased steadily within the past two decades. This is a clear indication that most of the policies implemented in most of the member states are effective and sustainable. This paper describes the lessons and ideas that can be learned from different GCC states in an attempt to formulate effective policies.
Saudi Women Driving and Impact on the Cars Market
Policy Analysis
One of the outstanding policies that have attracted the attention of many countries focuses on the empowerment of Saudi Arabian women and allowing them to drive (Al-Sharif 12). This announcement is seen as a new beginning for the state since the existing laws make it impossible for females in the state to achieve their potential. For many years, Saudi Arabia has been described as a country whose leadership style oppresses women and makes it hard for them to lead quality lives. In this conservative state, the new policy is expected to transform the lives of many individuals.
According to this new policy that was stated in a royal decree, women were to begin driving from June 2018. The move is expected to improve the country’s international relations and reputation. After many years, the country’s top leaders have finally acknowledged the fact that women should be empowered and guided in an attempt to achieve their potential (Alamri 19). However, some skeptics have indicated that the policy might have detrimental effects. For example, they have argued that many women might get stranded or kidnapped after their cars’ engines stall.
Impact on the Cars Market
Over the past two decades, the economic performance of many GCC states has been impressive. Analysts and experts have acknowledged that most of the policies designed and implemented in such countries are capable of empowering people and encouraging them to engage in various economic activities (Chulov). With Saudi Arabia boasting of a rapid economic growth rate and mineral resources such as oil, the new policy is capable of maximizing women’s potential and stimulating different markets.
To begin with, many women have been acquiring new competencies in an attempt to engage in various economic activities. Some are also earning competitive salaries. This is a clear indication that the country is shifting in accordance with the current wave of internationalization. With the new policy in place, chances are high that more women will be willing to purchase their own cars (Alamri 49). Once the change takes effect, the car market will record a positive performance more than ever before. As more women decide to buy cars, importers and assemblers in the country will be in a position to achieve their business aims.
Experts have revealed that the policy might increase the average sales of vehicles by over 38 percent (Alamri 84). The market will also perform positively within the next one decade. The law is also expected to promote new changes in the economy that will have direct impacts on the country’s car market. For instance, more women will embrace new roles and jobs in different regions across the country. It is also agreeable that women from other nations across the region and the globe will be willing to invest in Saudi Arabia.
The number of players or marketers in this segment will increase significantly. More people will be able to select the best cars from different brands. Vehicles that are designed specifically for women will find a new market in the state. This development will transform the situation and make it possible for the country to achieve its economic goals (Rezaian). The market for accessories and spare parts will also increase significantly. More people will find new employment opportunities in the industry. This is a clear indication that the country will record positive economic performance results.
Lessons for the World
The case of Saudi Arabia should be studied carefully by the rest of the world. This is the case because the state has been introducing appropriate policies that are informed by the changes experienced in the international business environment. Although the country has been performing positively in terms of economic growth, the introduction of the new policy will transform the situation and deliver meaningful results (Rezaian). The participation of women in various economic activities will increase significantly (Al-Sharif 83). They will also be empowered to pursue different economic goals and initiatives because they will not have to pay males to drive them.
The world should scrutinize the issues revolving around this policy carefully. This is the case because the new change is an idea that challenges existing cultural practices. For many years, women have been required to engage in domestic activities and take good care of their children and husbands (Al-Sharif 83). As the wave of globalization continues to revolutionize various economic practices, there has a need to develop appropriate programs that can empower more people and make it easier for them to deal with the obstacles facing them.
This kind of empowerment will make it easier for women in Saudi Arabia to engage in numerous roles such as leadership. They will create the best environment for young girls and empower them to achieve their potential. Every developing country should consider this classical example from the GCC and implement evidence-based programs to empower its citizens (Hubbard). For instance, new initiatives that have the potential to empower underprivileged individuals such as women and the disabled can be introduced.
Conclusion
From June 2018, Saudi Arabian women will be able to drive and own cars. The above discussion has revealed that many GCC member states are implementing appropriate laws and policies that can transform their citizens’ experiences. The discussed policy will make it easier for women to engage in numerous economic activities and eventually improve the attractiveness of Saudi Arabia’s car market.
Works Cited
Alamri, Hani Eid A. Strategies of Legitimization: The Case of Women Driving in Saudi Arabia. Newcastle University, 2017.
Al-Sharif, Manal. Daring to Drive: A Saudi Woman’s Awakening. Simon & Schuster, 2017.
Chulov, Martin. “Saudi Arabia’s New Mood: More Freedom for Women – But is the Nation Ready?” The Guardian. 2018. Web.
Hubbard, Ben. “Saudi Arabia Agrees to Let Women Drive.” The New York Times. 2017. Web.
Rezaian, Jason. “Saudi Women Will Soon be Able to Drive. Will They be Able to Fly, Too?” The Washington Post. 2018. Web.