The Arab Women's Business Council has undergone a significant transformation over its 25-year history, evolving from a stage of introduction and empowerment to building effective economic partnerships and implementable investment projects among Arab businesswomen. This shift was highlighted by Her Excellency Sheikha Dr. Hessa Saad Abdullah Al Sabah, Chair of the Arab Women's Business Council, during her appearance on the Egyptian television program "علشان بكرة" (So That Tomorrow).
The council's new direction aims to provide a comprehensive platform for identifying investment opportunities and the needs of each country in terms of business and projects, as well as opening channels for cooperation and financing. Sheikha Hessa Al Sabah emphasized the importance of creating a comprehensive Arab database to connect businesswomen with opportunities and partners, shedding light on existing initiatives by Arab businesswomen in Egypt.
One notable initiative is a project for a school to care for and rehabilitate orphans. Additionally, the council supports Arab countries facing economic crises. The council's evolution was made possible through enhanced communication and overcoming challenges related to weak coordination and networking over the past years.
Khalid Al Dousari, Secretary General of the Arab Women's Business Council, stated that the council's inception was the culmination of nearly a quarter-century of efforts to establish a regional economic network spanning the Gulf to the Levant and North Africa. However, Al Dousari noted that Arab intra-trade still faces challenges related to customs, legislation, and financing.
The council is seriously considering establishing an Arab fund to finance projects by businesswomen, supported by Arab governments and partnerships between the public and private sectors. The goal is to convert the network of regional relationships into tangible investments and projects that enhance the economic role of women and support development paths in the region.
The council's activities are aligned with its mission to foster economic empowerment and cooperation among Arab businesswomen. By facilitating connections and partnerships, the council aims to drive growth and development across the Arab world. The transformation of the council reflects a broader shift towards more impactful and sustainable economic initiatives.
As the Arab Women's Business Council continues to evolve, it is expected to play an increasingly important role in promoting economic opportunities and cooperation among its members. The council's efforts to address challenges and capitalize on opportunities are crucial for advancing the economic participation of women in the Arab region.
Key points
- The Arab Women's Business Council is moving towards building effective economic partnerships and investments among its members.
- The council aims to create a comprehensive Arab database to connect businesswomen with opportunities and partners.
- A proposed Arab fund will support financing projects by businesswomen, backed by Arab governments and public-private partnerships.
