Held under the theme ‘From Dubai to the World,’ the ‘Entrepreneurship Hub’ showcases how Dubai has become a global hub for entrepreneurship

 

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, November 26, 2024 : The opening day of the Global Women’s Forum – Dubai 2024 set an inspiring tone with the ‘Entrepreneurship Hub’, a two-day feature highlighting the remarkable journeys of five accomplished businesswomen. Held under the theme ‘From Dubai to the World,’ the platform showcases how Dubai has become a global hub for entrepreneurship, providing a supportive environment for businesses to thrive with its advanced infrastructure, robust legislative framework, and streamlined procedures.

This initiative underscores the forum’s commitment to championing entrepreneurial success as a key driver of economic growth and family stability. By spotlighting the personal and professional milestones of these trailblazing women, the sessions aim to inspire and empower future generations of entrepreneurs while celebrating the adaptability and ingenuity that define Dubai’s dynamic business landscape.

Her Excellency Naeema Ahli, Executive Director of the Dubai Women Establishment, remarked, “This initiative is about more than honouring the achievements of female entrepreneurs; it’s about inspiring others and creating a nurturing environment where aspiring women can pursue and achieve their ambitions. It highlights strategies to overcome challenges, utilise available resources, and maximise opportunities while showcasing the positive economic and societal impacts of their projects.” She emphasised that the initiative aligns with the broader goals of the Global Women’s Forum – Dubai 2024, particularly the theme ‘Future Economy, Future Societies,’ which focuses on women as key contributors to economic development and societal advancement.

Spotlight on Inspirational Journeys

Faiza Bouguessa: Redefining Luxury Fashion

Faiza Bouguessa, the visionary founder of the Bouguessa Fashion brand, has reimagined modern luxury with her minimalist yet timeless designs. Her creations, rooted in high craftsmanship and cultural heritage, seamlessly blend contemporary trends with sustainability. Born in France with Algerian roots, Bouguessa draws inspiration from her diverse background to empower women through fashion.

“I am constantly driven to explore new horizons in fashion and to empower women at every level,” Bouguessa shared during her session. Her dedication to merging elegance with innovation has established her as a global force in the luxury fashion industry, earning her a place in the wardrobes of modern, sophisticated women worldwide.

Abbey Jahan Dean: A Floral Visionary

With 17 years of experience in New Zealand’s floral industry, Abbey Jahan Dean brought her creative vision to Dubai in 2006, co-founding Bliss Flower Boutique with Michael Lennon. Today, the brand boasts 20 branches across the Middle East and Asia, employing over 120 staff and offering exquisite floral arrangements for events and weddings.

Dean reflected on her journey, saying, “We began by crafting our first unique bouquets, which marked the start of a success story that continues to evolve.”

She added: “Despite the significant success and expansion of our brand, I remain committed to my vision of providing the finest quality flowers, exceptional customer service, and maintaining our unique artistic aesthetic.”

Despite Bliss’s growth, she remains hands-on, personally sourcing flowers from global markets to maintain the brand’s artistic and quality standards. Balancing her entrepreneurial success with motherhood, Dean expressed joy in fulfilling her professional and personal aspirations daily.

Dr. Lamees Hamdan: Bridging Health, Beauty, and Art

Dr. Lamees Hamdan, founder of the Cosmic Doctor brand, is a pioneer in health and beauty entrepreneurship. Leveraging her medical expertise and passion for natural care, she has created successful skincare and haircare brands that dominate regional markets and expand globally. Dr. Al Shamsi’s ventures extend to dietary supplements, blending her medical knowledge with holistic approaches.

“My entrepreneurial journey began with launching skincare and haircare brands that became top sellers in major beauty stores across the Middle East, encouraging me to expand into other global markets,” she shared. Beyond business, Dr. Al Shamsi is deeply involved in the arts, having represented the UAE at the Venice Biennale and serving as co-chair of the Middle East Circle at the Guggenheim Museum in New York. Her diverse contributions reflect a commitment to both personal and professional growth, as well as cultural advocacy.

Inspiring the Next Generation

The Global Women’s Forum – Dubai 2024 continues to celebrate women’s achievements across industries, offering a platform for inspiration and collaboration. By amplifying these powerful stories, the forum not only highlights Dubai’s role as a catalyst for success but also paves the way for future innovations led by women around the world.

 

-ENDS-

 

About Dubai Women Establishment

Dubai Women Establishment (DWE) was formed as a statutory body of Dubai Government in 2006 under law no. (24) by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. DWE aims to enhance the professional and leadership capabilities of women, increase their participation in the comprehensive development journey, and strengthen their role in shaping the economic and social future of Dubai, by proposing and developing relevant and impactful policies. DWE is headed by Her Highness Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, President of DWE and wife of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court. DWE’s strategic plan for 2023-2027 includes three pillars: creating an enabling environment for women in the labour market, developing women leaders, and enhancing the quality of life for women in society, through which DWE seeks to achieve its vision of “Dubai as a pioneering model for women-friendly cities.” The new strategic plan focuses on contributing to the strengthening of supporting legislation and policies, consolidating partnerships and allowing women to influence locally and globally.

About Global Women’s Forum Dubai 2024

The Global Women’s Forum Dubai (GWFD) provides a platform to explore new strategies for enhancing gender balance and raising women’s participation in the economy and society worldwide. Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, GWFD reflects the UAE’s leadership in advancing gender equality and its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 5: Gender Equality. Since its inception eight years ago, the forum has become a leading international gathering for fostering dialogue and collaboration to address challenges and opportunities for women worldwide. With a rich agenda featuring diverse discussions, transformative workshops, and impactful speakers, GWFD brings together thought leaders, policymakers, and innovators to inspire progress toward building a more inclusive and sustainable future. The 2024 edition of GWFD, themed The Power of Influence, takes place on November 26-27 at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, gathering over 6,000 participants, 250 speakers and 25 prominent figures and ministers from across the globe. The 130 panel discussions at the forum centre on three pillars: Future Economies and Societies, Collective Engagements and Actions, and Impactful Technologies and Innovations.