Saudi women can now work in pharmacies

Women of Saudi Arabia can now work in pharmacies and herbal medicine stores, but not alongside men.

The ministry of health will start giving licenses to women wishing to work in pharmacies, herbal medicine stores and optical shops inside shopping centers, Saudi Gazette quoted a source saying.

However, they shall work in shops with female staff only and will not be allowed to work with men.

"The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Labor and Social Development will be closely monitoring the work environment and its safety," said the source.

Aisha Natto, former member of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) has hailed the step.

"I have criticized the Ministry of Health before for only allowing men to work in optical stores. Women also study ophthalmology. Some 60 female ophthalmologists graduated from King Saud University versus only eight male ophthalmologists," said Natto.

"I am not claiming anything that goes against religion or social traditions. Women should be empowered to overcome unemployment and the country already allows women to specialize in the field of ophthalmology," said Natto.

There are around 13,000 women who are fully qualified to work in optical stores.