Envisioning Change, Enabling Changemakers: Advancing Women’s Economic Leadership in the GCC
G100 Riyadh Meetings, Along with Women Economic Forum (WEF) – GCC, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 16-18 April 2025
The G100 Riyadh Meetings, held alongside the Women Economic Forum (WEF) – GCC from April 16–18, brought together a powerful coalition of global leaders and entrepreneurs committed to advancing women’s economic empowerment. It was a transformative experience, offering eye-opening insights into Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the country’s bold reforms.
From government policies to entrepreneurial opportunities, it became clear that the Kingdom is making significant strides in empowering women through education, employment, engagement, and leadership. It is notable that the female labor force participation has reached 35.3%, already exceeding the Vision 2030 target. Even more impressive, 45% of SMEs are led by women, and 40% of total startups are women-owned – figures that outpace those in many European countries.
Saudi women are now taking on decision-making roles in both government institutions and the private sector, actively contributing to the nation’s development and economic transformation, leading as change-makers in a future-focussed nation eager to connect, collaborate, invest, and grow.