Riyadh (AsiaNews
/ Agencies ) - A failure to comply with laws on " feminization " has led
to the closure of 514 Saudi women's clothing stores.
The penalty is a result of a royal
decree last year that included a complete ban on men working in lingerie and
cosmetics shops, imposing their gradual replacement with female staff. After a
transition period, in July, the Ministry for the inspections and the
development of the working environment ruled these shops must hire women only.
The reasons given included the fight against female unemployment and King
Abdullah's decision of was seen as a sign of equality with men. "The
ministry - had been announced - will take immediate action against those who
attempt to circumvent the measure, the activity will be reported with the
possibility of revocation of their trading license".
The deputy- minister, Abdullah Abu Thunain , announced yesterday that between
July and November 1173 shops incurred penalties, of these 403 promised to fully
comply with the law and 514 were ordered to close .
Abu Thunain stated that the national inspection campaign will continue and will
cover both women's retail and wholesale clothing stores. "The inspectors
will also check whether foreign workers in these stores are violating the rules
of residence and work ."
The minister also invited citizens to report any violations via e-mail , .