In a significant move to strengthen bilateral ties and champion female entrepreneurship, the General Women’s Union (GWU), in collaboration with Kuwait’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has launched the first-ever Emirati-Kuwaiti Women’s Forum. The event, held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, aims to create a dynamic platform for women to drive economic and social progress in both nations.
A Platform for Cross-Border Collaboration
The forum and its accompanying exhibition operate under the theme “We are together.. and together we are.. and together we make tomorrow,” reflecting the deep-rooted relationship between the UAE and Kuwait. The initiative seeks to build on this historical connection by fostering sustainable economic and cultural partnerships, with a core focus on empowering women as key contributors to national development.
The event, supported by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, serves as an interactive hub for sharing expertise and building lasting business relationships between Emirati and Kuwaiti women.
Bridging Entrepreneurs and Opportunities
A central feature of the forum is the Female Entrepreneurs Forum, which brings together over 160 licensed companies owned by Emirati and Kuwaiti women. These businesses represent six key sectors: commerce, technology and digital transformation, services, industry, real estate and investment, and transport and logistics.
Additionally, the “Dakakin Samha” section of the exhibition showcases the work of more than 40 Emirati and Kuwaiti “productive families.” This segment provides a unique opportunity for attendees to engage with local artisans, discover traditional handicrafts and cuisine, and support grassroots initiatives that contribute to the social and cultural economy.
Fostering Growth Through Skill Development
To provide tangible value to participants, the forum includes a series of seven practical training workshops. These sessions cover critical topics for business growth, including access to financial and non-financial services, navigating tenders, understanding franchising models, and cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset in an era of transformation. The workshops are designed to equip female entrepreneurs with the skills needed to scale their ventures and explore new market opportunities.
Key Ecosystem Partners Rally Support
Noura Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General of the General Women’s Union, stated that the exhibition is a practical platform for supporting the participation of Emirati and Kuwaiti women in various economic and cultural sectors. She emphasized that it enables the exchange of experiences and the building of sustainable partnerships that reinforce women’s role as a cornerstone of sustainable development.
Mouza Obaid Al Naseri, CEO of the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, highlighted the strategic importance of the event. She noted that the exhibition empowers female entrepreneurs, showcases their innovative projects, and opens new avenues for expansion and growth, contributing to a diversified, knowledge-based economy.
Ali Mohammed Al Marzouqi, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Chamber, affirmed the Chamber’s commitment to supporting developmental initiatives with sustainable impact. He described the forum as a leading platform for promoting economic and social partnerships and underscoring the pivotal role of women in the progress of both the UAE and Kuwait.
About The General Women’s Union
The General Women’s Union (GWU) was established in 1975 to serve as the national mechanism for the empowerment and advancement of women in the United Arab Emirates. Under the leadership of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, “Mother of the Nation,” the GWU works to ensure that women are active partners in the country’s sustainable development by launching initiatives, policies, and projects that support their economic, social, and political participation.
Source: Twasl News
