The DIFC Innovation Hub, in partnership with global trading platform Capital.com, has launched CapitalHer, a new flagship programme designed to empower women across the GCC with the knowledge and practical exposure needed to engage with financial markets. The initiative aims to close participation gaps in trading and investing by fostering a supportive environment for women to build financial skills.
Bridging the Gap in Financial Markets
CapitalHer addresses a recognised need for more education-led pathways and greater diversity within the region’s financial markets. Recent research into the MENA retail trading landscape highlighted a young, educated, and active investor base, but also underscored a gap in female participation. The programme is designed to turn this insight into action by focusing specifically on enhancing women’s financial capability and confidence.
The partnership reflects the core belief of both organisations that financial literacy and inclusion are crucial for healthy market participation.
“CapitalHer reflects the DIFC Innovation Hub’s role as a platform where talent, innovation and opportunity converge,” said Mohammed AlBlooshi, Chief Executive Officer of the DIFC Innovation Hub. “By anchoring this programme, we are enabling women across the GCC to build practical financial capability while gaining exposure to the region’s most dynamic FinTech and innovation environment.”
Tarik Chebib, CEO of Capital.com MENA, added, “Education and responsible engagement are at the heart of Capital.com’s mission. Through CapitalHer we’re not just talking about empowerment, we’re creating a safe, structured space for women to learn, practise and ask questions – with access to mentors, real-time tools and a community of peers.”
An Accelerator for Aspiring Female Investors
The programme is structured as a six-week accelerator beginning in March 2026, specifically for GCC national women. It combines financial education, hands-on learning, dedicated mentorship, and peer collaboration to provide a comprehensive learning experience.
CapitalHer will select a cohort of 25–30 women based on their motivation and potential, with recruitment supported through the DIFC Innovation Hub’s extensive channels and partner networks. The programme will culminate in a “Demo Day” at the prestigious Dubai FinTech Summit, part of Dubai Future Finance Week 2026, where participants can celebrate their journeys and achievements.
About CapitalHer
CapitalHer is a six-week accelerator-style programme for GCC national women that combines financial education, hands-on learning, mentorship, and peer collaboration. The initiative aims to close participation gaps in trading and investing by creating an accessible, supportive environment where women can build skills, test strategies, and learn from industry experts.
About DIFC Innovation Hub
The DIFC Innovation Hub is the largest start-up and innovation community in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region. Operating out of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), it serves as a platform for fostering innovation, enterprise, and talent across various sectors, particularly FinTech. The hub is a key component of DIFC’s strategy to shape the future of finance and supports transformational initiatives within the Dubai Economic Agenda.
Source: Zawya
