Forbes Middle East Women’s Summit Kicks Off in Riyadh

Bringing Together A Remarkable Cohort of Visionary Female Leaders and Global Influencers.

• The summit serves as a leading platform to celebrate women’s leadership and empowerment while addressing key challenges and opportunities across various industries.
• From technological innovation and healthcare to work-life balance, the first day of the summit featured rich and engaging discussions.

Riyadh, December 18, 2024

The second edition of Forbes Middle East’s Women’s Summit kicked off today at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center in Saudi Arabia. Celebrating the leadership and visionary achievements of women across the region, the summit serves as a premier platform to showcase the stories and accomplishments of women shaping the future. It provides a dynamic space for thought-provoking discussions, offering insights into the challenges and successes of trailblazing women. The event stands as a testament to resilience, innovation, and the transformative power of women’s voices.

The first day welcomed distinguished attendees, including H.H. Princess Doaa Bint Mohammed, CEO of the Al Mohra Education Company and Former Supreme President of the Arab Women’s Authority; H.R.H Princess Lamia Bint Majed Saud AlSaud, Secretary General and Member of the Board of Trustees at Alwaleed Philanthropies; H.E. Dalia Khorshid, Group CEO and Managing Director of Beltone Holding; H.E. Ambassador Christophe Farnaud, EU Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom of Bahrain, and the Sultanate of Oman; H.E. Rym Abdulla Al Falasy, Secretary General of the Supreme Council for Motherhood & Childhood; H.E. Laila Rahhal El Atfani, Goodwill Ambassador, Founder, and CEO at the Woman Business Circle and Business Gate – Dubai.

“Celebrating and recognizing the incredible achievements of women across the Middle East is fundamental to ensuring that progress in this region continues moving forward,” said Khuloud Al Omian, CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Forbes Middle East. “We are humbled by the strength, determination, and resilience of women in the private and public sectors as they strive to break down barriers and secure an equal playing field for future generations.”

The first day featured inspiring discussions across two main stages, tackling pivotal topics related to women’s empowerment in diverse fields. At the Empowerment Arena, discussions centered on impactful topics such as advancing healthcare under the KSA Vision 2030, fostering women’s leadership, and redefining entrepreneurship. The panels also emphasized the power of storytelling in driving positive change, the role of technological innovation, and building strong foundations for future generations, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s dedication to empowering women and driving economic growth.

Meanwhile, at the She Leads Hub, panels focused on strategies for achieving professional success, navigating well-being and sustainability, and empowering women in leadership. Discussions also explored the importance of blending innovation and tradition to drive growth, balancing personal and professional goals, and shaping the future of entrepreneurship and investment.

Diverse workshops at the Women’s Summit are designed to inspire personal growth, well-being, and empowerment. Participants can explore financial confidence, mindful breathing, yoga, flexibility practices, and CrossFit, along with creative sessions like acting, storytelling, and mindful boxing. Leadership, relationships, teamwork, and etiquette workshops offer valuable tools for self-discovery, community building, and professional success.

Forbes Middle East is collaborating with a variety of distinguished partners, including presenting partner, ROSHN Group; associate partner, Binghatti Developers; event partners, Dr. Hamid Suliman Al Ahmadi Hospital, Vi Markets, Porsche, Bissell, Innoventure Educational Investment, EFSIM Facilities Management Company (KSA), and Jamjoom Pharma; furniture partner, Electra; Travel partner, ITL World; gift partners, Huda Beauty, Lululemon, Barriya, MZN Body Care, B Wandering, Kayanee, and Humanity Code; fitness partner, Jeem Gym; exhibition partner, Aida Murad; media partner, Rominds Production; education partner, We Grow Minds; beauty partner, Mermaid Salon & Spa; and art partners, Dar AlHanouf Couture, Pavone, Adnan Akbar Fashion House, Rasha Bilal, Waad Aloqaili, Legends Art Club, and Evolution Events.