In recent years, the Middle East has emerged as a hub of transformation, with governments across the region introducing groundbreaking reforms to support women in business. Once limited by societal norms and structural barriers, women in the Middle East are now benefitting from a shift in policies aimed at empowering them economically and socially. These efforts are not only reshaping the narrative around gender equality but are also driving economic diversification and inclusive growth.
The Role of Vision 2030 and National Agendas
A significant catalyst for this change has been government-led initiatives such as Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. This ambitious framework prioritizes increasing women’s participation in the workforce and reducing the gender gap in leadership roles. Key milestones under this program include reforms to allow women to drive, which has unlocked new opportunities in mobility and entrepreneurship. Saudi Arabia’s move to ease guardianship laws has further enabled women to independently access government services, travel, and work.
Similarly, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the National Strategy for Empowerment of Emirati Women (2015–2021) laid the foundation for gender inclusion across economic, social, and leadership roles. Today, Emirati women constitute 66% of the public sector workforce, with a growing presence in high-ranking positions and entrepreneurial ventures.
Policy Reforms and Legal Changes
One of the most significant areas of reform has been in the realm of labor laws. Across the Middle East, governments are introducing regulations to ensure equal pay and prevent workplace discrimination. For instance, the UAE’s Equal Pay Law, enacted in 2020, requires employers to provide equal compensation for men and women performing the same work.
In Bahrain, the Supreme Council for Women has worked closely with the government to advocate for gender-friendly policies, including maternity leave benefits and flexible work arrangements. These changes are helping women balance professional and personal responsibilities, encouraging greater workforce participation.
Financial Inclusion and Access to Capital
Another major barrier for women in business has traditionally been access to capital. Recognizing this, governments and financial institutions have launched initiatives to provide funding and mentorship specifically for women entrepreneurs.
In Saudi Arabia, the Monsha’at Authority collaborates with banks to offer loans and financial support to women-owned small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Similarly, the Emirati Women Entrepreneurs Network (EWEN) facilitates connections with investors and provides training programs tailored to women in business.
These programs have enabled women to step into sectors traditionally dominated by men, such as technology, manufacturing, and logistics, alongside more conventional industries like fashion and hospitality.
Women in Leadership
Government reforms have also placed a strong emphasis on increasing female representation in leadership roles. In 2021, the UAE mandated that listed companies include at least one woman on their boards of directors. This progressive policy aligns with the country’s broader efforts to enhance diversity in decision-making roles.
Saudi Arabia has similarly witnessed a surge in female leaders across sectors. Women now hold prominent positions in banking, education, and government, signaling a shift toward merit-based appointments. These changes reflect the broader societal acceptance of women as equal contributors to national development.
Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Entrepreneurship is a key focus of government strategies aimed at empowering women. Countries across the Middle East have established incubators, accelerators, and grants to encourage women to launch startups.
For example, Qatar Business Incubation Center (QBIC) has dedicated programs to support women entrepreneurs in developing innovative ideas and scaling their businesses. Meanwhile, organizations like She Wins Arabia, a partnership between the International Finance Corporation and regional governments, aim to enhance the visibility and growth of women-led startups.
Technology and e-commerce are particularly promising sectors for women entrepreneurs. Digital platforms allow women to bypass traditional workplace challenges, such as limited mobility or access to male-dominated networks. Governments are actively investing in digital literacy programs to equip women with the skills they need to thrive in the digital economy.
Challenges That Persist
While progress is evident, challenges remain. Cultural expectations and societal norms still impose constraints on women’s ability to participate fully in the workforce or pursue entrepreneurial ambitions. Despite the reforms, women often face scrutiny in leadership roles and struggle with balancing traditional family roles with professional demands.
Access to funding, although improving, remains a challenge in some regions, with many women lacking the networks or collateral required to secure substantial financing. Moreover, implementation gaps in policy reforms can hinder their effectiveness, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and enforcement.
The Road Ahead
The momentum generated by government reforms in the Middle East is undeniable. By addressing systemic barriers and creating supportive ecosystems, governments are paving the way for a new era of economic participation for women. However, to sustain this progress, it is essential to complement policy reforms with cultural shifts and public-private collaborations.
Encouragingly, the region is witnessing a growing number of women role models who are inspiring the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs. With continued investment in education, mentorship, and inclusive policies, the Middle East can position itself as a global leader in empowering women in business.
As the region advances toward economic diversification and modernization, the inclusion of women is no longer a choice but a necessity. Their participation is not only reshaping industries but also enriching communities, fostering innovation, and driving sustainable development. In the Middle East, the era of women in business is just beginning—and the possibilities are limitless.
