Segregated Saudi Banks

(Jeddah, Saudi Arabia) Word is that segregation of men and women in the banking business will soon be strictly enforced. The Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency (SAMA) officials have refused to confirm the imposition of a new directive but admit that segregation is expected.

According to various reports by news agencies that have spoken to bank managers and women bankers, Saudi authorities have ordered banks to separate female and male workers at their headquarters where they used to work together.

Reportedly, authorities have given banks until the end of the summer to implement the measures.

The banks are expected to provide separate floors, elevators, entrance and cafeterias for the men and women.

The Ministry of Labor will send inspection teams to verify compliance. Regarding the Lesbian Gay Bisexual & Transgender (LGBT) bank employees, the segregation rules are considered not applicable, rather an unspoken "don't tell, don't die" policy is in general acceptance.