As the Kingdom progresses with its Vision 2030 plan, the nation works towards generating new employment opportunities for all Saudis.

A key focus of the plan is to foster and back local entrepreneurship, alongside pioneering mega-projects. This approach opens up numerous avenues for growth and development within Saudi Arabia. And, this growth projection is also true for women in business in the Kingdom.

The Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) reported that in Saudi Arabia, the ratio of men to women starting or running new businesses has changed considerably over the last number of years. In 2009, there were 10 men for every woman starting a new business, but by 2023, the ratio became more balanced, with over eight women for every 10 men.

With this in mind, and as International Women's Day 2024 approaches, we're taking the opportunity to shine a spotlight on home-grown, female-owned businesses.

Aseel Collection

Together sisters Aseel and Suha Al Zamil created Aseel Colllection, a modern, modest wear brand. The brand is known throughout Saudi and beyond for creating high-quality, fashion-forward, embellished abayas and kaftans. Highly thought of in fashion circles, the brand is sold in high-end stores such as Harvey Nichols.

@aseelcollection

aseelcollections.com

Asteri Beauty

A homegrown make up brand owned by Sara Al Rashed, Asteri Beauty has made waves in the Kingdom. Previously an interior designer, Al Rashed spotted a niche in the Saudi market, and a need for a brand that combines packaging aesthetics and art, with self-care and a sense of sisterhood, and thus Asteri Beauty was born:"Asteri exists to empower us to shine our light in the world. Inspired by where we come from, excited for where we will go together."

@asteribeautysa

asteribeauty.com

Nuun Jewels

Passionate about creativity, culture and self-expression, Princess Nourah Al-Faisal created Nuun Jewels following an intense introduction to fine jewellery in Paris, she aims to capture and explore moments, memories and even landscapes through fine jewellery. Offering bespoke jewellery design alongside signature creations and seasonal developments, Nuun Jewels is a much-loved luxe jewellery brand.

@nuunjewels

nuunjewels.com

By Sara Murad

Sara Murad is a multi-hyphened Saudi Arabian success story: a much-loved TV presenter, a magazine cover star, a brand ambassador and an entrepreneur. Hoping to embolden, enlighten and empower women through scent, the star's brand By Sara Murad has soared in popularity since is launch last year.

@bysaramurad @sara__murad

bysaramurad.com

Arwa

Modesty meets high-fashion, Arwa is the sensational fashion brand created by Saudi fashionista and business woman Arwa Al Banawi. Breaking boundaries and creating luxury fashion pieces, Arwa has showcased at Riyadh Fashion Week and even collaborated with Adidas to create an AlUla-inspired trainer collection in 2021, and their latest collection is set to drop this month.

@arwathebrand

arwabrand.com

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Lead Image via @hernandezstudio for @arwathebrand SS24 collection

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