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Under patronage of HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim, Global Women Economic Forum begins
Under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Consort of His Majesty the King and President of the Supreme Council for Women (SCW), the Global Women Economic Forum and Exhibition began at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. Organised by the Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society, the event will run until January 15.
The forum was attended by Her Highness Shaikha Thajba bint Salman Al Khalifa, Honorary President of the Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society.
The forum opened with a welcoming speech by Ahlam Janahi, President of the Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society, followed by addresses from Abdullah bin Adel Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce, and Alia bint Abdullah Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of State for Entrepreneurship. A documentary film showcasing the 25-year journey of the Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society was then presented. The inaugural session, titled "Leadership Voices: Advancing Global Progress," featured a keynote speech by May Mikati, spouse of the Lebanese Prime Minister, alongside prominent officials and leaders.
On the first day, all partners and sponsors of the forum were honoured. The accompanying exhibition was then launched, featuring booths from participating countries, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, the UAE, Iraq, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Morocco, Turkey, the United Kingdom, the United States, Russia, France, Italy, Switzerland, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and China. A total of 38 participants from various industries and businesses showcased their services and products.
The forum and exhibition continued with a keynote address by Dr. Hashim Hussein, Head of the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation’s (UNIDO) Investment and Technology Promotion Office in Bahrain, titled "The Bahraini Model and Women’s Global Advancement". This was followed by a panel discussion, "Innovative Diplomacy: Women’s Role in Shaping Legal Frameworks," moderated by Dr. Khauloud Al Qattan, General Manager of Prime Advisory and board member of SICO Funds. The session featured a recorded address by Her Royal Highness Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud, Saudi Ambassador to the US, and contributions from other notable figures. Discussions focused on women’s leadership roles in developing regional and global diplomatic and legal frameworks, highlighting their contributions to international cooperation and innovative, inclusive solutions. The session also emphasised the importance of diversity in developing sustainable diplomatic relations for future generations.
Another panel discussion, "The Role of Public-Private Partnerships in Strengthening Economies," was chaired by Afnan Al Zayani, President and Proprietor of Al Zayani Commercial Services. High-profile speakers explored the transformative impact of these partnerships on economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development, both regionally and globally. The session examined how such collaborations create job opportunities, drive technological advancement, and enhance global competitiveness.
On this occasion, Janahi expressed her appreciation for the patronage of HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibraheem. She commended her continued support for initiatives highlighting Bahraini businesswomen and those from diverse backgrounds, ensuring a conducive environment for women entrepreneurs to expand their businesses and enhance their competitiveness.
Janahi noted Bahrain’s pioneering role in empowering women to establish and grow their ventures, recognising their vital contributions to Bahraini society. She attributed this progress to the royal support for Bahraini women, along with government initiatives developing women's participation in business and trade. These efforts have strengthened legal frameworks and policies that provide exceptional opportunities for women in Bahrain, developing business incubators and creating a motivating environment for female entrepreneurs to confidently and successfully enter the business world.
The forum continues on Tuesday with sessions on topics including “Future-Ready: AI’s Role in Shaping Education and Society”, "Inclusive Growth: Financial Strategies for Entrepreneurial Success", Leadership in ICT: Shaping the Future of Digital Economies”, "Investing in Security - The Future of Cyber Ventures & Transactions". Discussions will also cover "Innovation: The Economic Impact of Creativity and Orange Economy" and feature a workshop on multicultural leadership and women in business. Closing remarks will be delivered by Elena Kalinina, Rector of the St. Petersburg Institute of Social and Economic Studies and Head of the Russian Women’s Union in St. Petersburg. The forum will conclude with recommendations, an awards ceremony for the organising committee, and the launch of the Global Entrepreneurs Alliance and the "Global Call 2025" initiative under the theme "Creative Orange Economy: Innovation for the Future."
The final day will include visits to key economic and cultural institutions in Bahrain, such as the Bahrain Economic Development Board, Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Bahrain Bourse, Bahrain International Investment Park, Bahrain National Museum, the Pearling Path, historic houses in Muharraq, Bahrain Fort, Manama Souq, Marassi Bahrain, and Safeya Ali Kanoo Hub. The forum will end with a private dinner for women and one-on-one business meetings in partnership with UNIDO’s Bahrain office.