Gulf Women-led Enterprises: Forum Calls for Stronger Support
The 7th Gulf Businesswomen Forum concluded with a call for more support for Gulf women-led enterprises. This two-day event, centered on “Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Investment,” brought together leaders and entrepreneurs. They discussed the crucial role of women in regional economic growth and shared their stories. These discussions emphasized the importance of improving support for women-led businesses across the Gulf.
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in the Gulf
The forum, held at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Msheireb, Qatar, focused on the importance of empowering Gulf women entrepreneurs. Key discussions highlighted how Gulf women-led enterprises are enhancing the region’s knowledge economy. Speakers also discussed how modern technologies and sustainable practices support business growth. Moreover, the forum pointed out the need for stronger policies to ensure long-term success.
Challenges for Gulf Women Entrepreneurs
Women entrepreneurs in the Gulf still face many barriers. These include limited access to capital, a lack of mentorship, and insufficient support systems. The forum’s discussions centered on addressing these challenges. Experts suggested that overcoming these obstacles requires better collaboration, improved policies, and more robust support structures for Gulf women-led enterprises.
Read Also
Success Stories from Gulf Women Entrepreneurs
The forum featured inspiring success stories from women entrepreneurs across the region. Aisha Mohamed Al Mulla, Chairperson of the UAE Businesswomen Council, and Dr. Hanan bin Aziz Al Kindia, an Omani media advisor, shared how their businesses have thrived. Their stories showed the importance of education, mentorship, and strategic investment in ensuring the success of Gulf women-led enterprises. Furthermore, their examples highlighted how women’s businesses are reshaping the region’s industries.
From Tradition to Innovation: Empowering Women in the Gulf
A central discussion focused on how educational initiatives, such as Qatar National Vision 2030, are empowering women to lead in innovative industries. Dr. Fatima Yousef Al Balushi, Chairperson of the Omani Women’s Academy, discussed how women-led businesses are adapting to meet the challenges of modern markets. As a result, women are now entering emerging fields like technology and sustainability.
How Arbitration Protects Women’s Business Ventures
Another important session examined how arbitration can support Gulf women-led enterprises. Moderated by Dr. Mona Al Marzouqi, this session emphasized how arbitration helps resolve business disputes fairly. Legal experts discussed how arbitration mechanisms, along with clear contracts, create a stable business environment. This, in turn, allows women entrepreneurs to protect their investments.
Inspiring Success Stories from Gulf Entrepreneurs
On the final day, additional success stories were shared by Gulf women entrepreneurs. Jawaher Al-Mannai, a Qatari jewelry designer, shared how she built her brand “Ghand” and participated in international exhibitions. Amal Sand from Bahrain spoke about her jewelry brand “Kayan Jewelry,” which blends heritage and modern design. These stories proved that Gulf women-led enterprises are making their mark both regionally and globally.
The Future of Gulf Women Entrepreneurs
Finally, Noura Al Salem, Assistant Secretary-General of the Federation of GCC Chambers, stressed the need for continued support for Gulf women-led enterprises. She emphasized that these businesses are vital to the region’s economic development. To ensure their continued growth, policymakers must provide women entrepreneurs with the resources and tools they need to thrive.
