Women in Dubai are rewriting the rules of entrepreneurship. Across tech, fashion, food, and finance, both Emirati and expatriate women are launching ventures that not only succeed but also reshape the city’s economic landscape. In 2024, women-led businesses saw a 12% year-on-year rise, with over 6,000 Emirati women registered with Dubai SME, the highest number to date.
These women are not just participants in the economy, they are pioneers, employers, mentors, and innovators. They bring new ideas to life, create job opportunities, and empower others by example.
This article explores the rise of women entrepreneurs in Dubai—celebrating those who dared to start, sharing the supportive ecosystem that makes it possible, and inspiring others to join the movement.
The Rise of Women Entrepreneurs in Dubai
Dubai has steadily become a launchpad for women with business dreams. Fueled by government support, access to resources, and a shift in societal mindset, women today are no longer waiting for permission, they are taking the lead. While the past may have viewed entrepreneurship as a high-risk detour for women, today it’s recognised as a powerful path to financial independence, creative freedom, and social impact.
A major driver of this change is Dubai SME, an initiative under the Department of Economy and Tourism, which has empowered women with funding, mentorship, and legal guidance. As a result, women now account for a rapidly growing portion of the startup ecosystem in Dubai. These ventures are not confined to traditionally "female" industries; they thrive in sectors once dominated by men: tech, finance, logistics, even crypto.
Yet the road has not been without its challenges. Many of Dubai’s top women founders built their businesses at a time when venture capital was hesitant to back female-led startups. Globally, women still receive less than 3% of total VC funding, and Dubai was no exception. But perseverance, community support, and a growing ecosystem of mentorship and visibility helped level the playing field. Social networks like the Dubai Business Women Council and the Female Fusion Network have created spaces where women find not just support but strategy, growth, and strength.
These collective efforts have sparked a ripple effect, creating role models and igniting ambition across generations. In the following sections, we’ll dive into the inspiring stories of women who are at the forefront of Dubai’s most dynamic sectors. These are women building businesses that matter—and taking others with them on the way up.
An Empowering Ecosystem That Helps Women Thrive
Dubai’s rise as a hub for women entrepreneurs is not accidental. Behind every success story is a support system that has gradually matured to meet the specific needs of women founders—financially, institutionally, and culturally. Today, the city offers one of the most encouraging ecosystems for women-led businesses in the region.
Government Initiatives and Funding Support
The UAE government, particularly through programs like Dubai SME and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Fund for SMEs, has tailored initiatives to encourage female entrepreneurship. Women can access low-interest loans, mentorship schemes, and even rent-free office space in their startup phase. As of 2024, Dubai SME had over 6,000 registered Emirati businesswomen—its highest to date—thanks in part to such incentives.
Free Zones and Business Incubators
Free zones like Dtec, Dubai Design District (D3), and in5 Innovation Centres simplify business setup for women founders. These hubs provide more than just workspace—they offer access to mentors, investors, training programs, and even special license packages designed for women entrepreneurs. These zones act as accelerators, allowing businesses to launch quickly and scale confidently.
Networks That Nurture Growth
Dubai’s entrepreneurial women aren’t building in isolation. The Dubai Business Women Council (DBWC) and platforms like Female Fusion have created close-knit communities where women connect, learn, and grow together. DBWC, in particular, has trained thousands of women in business planning, digital skills, and scaling operations. Through events, partnerships, and mentorship, these organisations help women turn ideas into thriving ventures.
Cultural and Policy Shifts
Importantly, Dubai’s leadership actively champions women in business. Recognition like the Emirates Women Award and Mohammed Bin Rashid Award for Young Business Leaders provides visibility, while policy reforms, such as extended maternity leave and flexible working arrangements, make entrepreneurship a more sustainable choice. The message is clear: success in business is no longer limited by gender.
This supportive framework doesn’t just make success possible—it makes it visible, so more women are empowered to start, grow, and lead.
Innovators in Tech and Finance: Building the Future from Dubai
Dubai’s ambition to be a global leader in technology and finance has created fertile ground for women to break into these once male-dominated sectors. With access to capital, infrastructure, and global markets, women entrepreneurs are not just participating—they’re shaping the future of fintech, e-commerce, and blockchain right from Dubai.
Mona Ataya – Mumzworld
Mona Ataya, a Palestinian-Lebanese entrepreneur, launched Mumzworld in 2011 when e-commerce in the region was still emerging. Based in Dubai, the platform was built to address the needs of Arab mothers and grew into the largest mother and baby e-commerce site in the Middle East.
- She scaled the company to serve millions and led a 450-person team.
- In 2021, Mumzworld was acquired by Saudi-based Tamer Group, cementing its position as a regional leader.
- Mona is now on the board of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, mentoring others to follow her path.
Ambareen Musa – Souqalmal / Yabi
Originally from Mauritius, Ambareen Musa created Souqalmal.com in 2012 to bring transparency to personal finance in the region. After securing funding and scaling the business, she pivoted to launch Yabi, a B2B financial wellness platform that helps employees develop money management skills.
- In 2023, Yabi raised $8 million in seed funding.
- The platform serves companies like Al-Futtaim and Careem.
- Her shift from comparison site to fintech education shows how adaptable, insight-driven innovation thrives in Dubai.
Ola Doudin – BitOasis
Ola Doudin launched BitOasis in 2015 as the region’s first cryptocurrency exchange. Based in Dubai, BitOasis became a trailblazer in the crypto space, gaining regulatory approval and building trust in a volatile sector.
- BitOasis processed billions in trade volume.
- Ola faced challenges in hiring and fundraising but benefited from Dubai’s forward-thinking crypto regulations.
- She’s now one of the most recognized women in MENA’s blockchain ecosystem.
Other notable names include Nadine Mezher of Sarwa (a robo-advisory platform simplifying investing) and Leena Khalil, co-founder of Mumzworld. Together, they represent a growing force of women redefining how tech, money, and entrepreneurship intersect in Dubai. Their success stories are lighting the way for the next wave of women to dream—and code—big.
Creative Leaders in Fashion, Beauty, and Design: Turning Vision into Global Brands
Dubai’s position as a style and beauty capital has empowered women entrepreneurs to build trend-setting brands that blend cultural identity with global appeal. These creative leaders are not only setting aesthetic standards but also proving that business and artistic vision can go hand in hand.
Huda Kattan – Huda Beauty
One of the most iconic beauty entrepreneurs in the world today, Huda Kattan turned a blog and a $6,000 investment into Huda Beauty, a billion-dollar cosmetics empire headquartered in Dubai.
- Her brand started with eyelashes sold at Sephora Dubai Mall and quickly went viral.
- Social media became her biggest marketing tool, with millions following her honest, unfiltered content.
- Today, Huda Beauty is sold globally, and Huda also invests in female-led businesses through her own VC fund.
Her rise was not without obstacles—many investors were initially hesitant to back a female founder in beauty—but Dubai’s openness to new ideas and her digital savvy helped her build an international success story.
Faiza Bouguessa – Bouguessa
French-Algerian designer Faiza Bouguessa launched her namesake label to modernize the abaya and create contemporary modest wear.
- Her refined silhouettes have been worn by Beyoncé and featured in Vogue.
- Starting in Dubai Design District, she navigated production challenges and global expansion, while staying rooted in regional identity.
- Her brand now ships worldwide and is celebrated for redefining modest fashion with minimalist elegance.
Bouguessa’s journey reflects the creative potential of Dubai-based designers to challenge fashion norms and find a global audience without leaving the region.
Sara Al Madani – Serial Entrepreneur
Dr. Sara Al Madani began her entrepreneurial journey at age 15 with a fashion label, eventually expanding into tech, food, and wellness ventures.
- She is now a board member of the Sharjah Business Women Council and a sought-after public speaker.
- Known for her resilience, she often shares the failures behind her success, encouraging women to take risks and learn quickly.
Sara’s story proves that entrepreneurship doesn’t follow a straight path. With each new venture, she pushes boundaries, challenging stereotypes about what women can do and how far they can go.
From high fashion to everyday beauty, these women have created brands that resonate with millions. They’ve leveraged Dubai’s infrastructure—from design studios to global retail—to scale their visions without compromising their identity. Their stories remind aspiring creatives that Dubai is not just a place to dream—it’s a place to do.
Pioneers in Food, Wellness, and Hospitality: Redefining Taste and Wellbeing in Dubai
Dubai’s food and wellness sectors are seeing a fresh wave of innovation, led by women who are blending culture, community, and creativity into experiences that nourish both body and soul. These founders are building unique businesses that reflect personal stories and set new standards in their industries.
Amal Al Marri & Deem Al Bassam – SALT
What began as a humble food truck on Kite Beach quickly became one of Dubai’s most loved homegrown brands. Emirati Amal Al Marri and Saudi partner Deem Al Bassam launched SALT in 2014 with a simple idea: premium burgers served in a laid-back beach setting.
- They focused on quality, community vibes, and clever social media to build a cult following.
- SALT now has permanent locations across the UAE and Saudi Arabia, and the founders have expanded under The Independent Food Company, launching several new dining concepts.
Their story stands as proof that passion and originality can carve out space even in a saturated F&B market—and that women can lead at the top of it.
Neha Mishra – Kinoya
Neha Mishra, an Indian expat, turned her underground ramen supper club into Kinoya, now one of Dubai’s most acclaimed restaurants.
- Opening in 2021 during the pandemic was a bold move, but Kinoya’s authentic experience and Neha’s personal touch made it an instant hit.
- The restaurant offers more than food—it creates community around culinary craft.
- Neha now mentors emerging chefs, particularly women, helping them build their own ventures.
Her journey showcases how Dubai rewards courage and authenticity, even when starting from scratch.
Qadreya Al Awadhi – Bumblebee
Recognizing the lack of healthy food for toddlers, young Emirati Qadreya Al Awadhi launched Bumblebee, a frozen baby food brand made from organic ingredients.
- With no culinary background, she partnered with pediatric experts to develop recipes.
- Her goal: make nutrition accessible for busy parents, while raising awareness around early childhood health.
- Bumblebee has since received awards for innovation and now offers its meals across the UAE.
Qadreya’s brand speaks to a new wave of female-led startups focused on purpose, not just profit—reshaping how we think about entrepreneurship in wellness.
Asma Hilal Lootah – The Hundred Wellness Center
Long before boutique wellness became trendy, Asma Hilal Lootah opened The Hundred Wellness Center in Jumeirah in 2008.
- It became the first fully integrated health and fitness center in Dubai run by a UAE national woman.
- The center offers Pilates, yoga, alternative therapies, and a clean-eating café—all under one calming roof.
- Asma’s vision was to create a space that helped people reconnect with themselves—a mission that’s only become more vital with time.
Her pioneering work has not only earned awards but also set the tone for how wellness can be inclusive, community-driven, and led by women.
These entrepreneurs are more than business owners—they’re change-makers. They’ve built brands with purpose and impact, showing how food and wellness can become platforms for innovation, empowerment, and cultural connection.
Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead: The Quiet Strength Behind Every Success
The achievements of Dubai’s women entrepreneurs are hard-won. Behind every thriving venture is a journey filled with hurdles—some visible, others less talked about. What sets these women apart is not the absence of challenge, but the way they’ve navigated it with resilience, resourcefulness, and clarity of purpose.
Funding and Access
One of the most persistent challenges for female founders globally and regionally is access to capital. Despite their growing presence, women-led businesses still receive a significantly smaller share of venture funding. In the MENA region, the number remains below 5%.
Yet, founders like Huda Kattan and Mona Ataya proved that revenue, customer trust, and storytelling can be just as persuasive as pitch decks. Both grew their companies organically before attracting major investment, showing that alternative paths to funding are possible, even in a system that can feel uneven.
Work-Life Balance
Another recurring challenge is balance, especially for women who are also mothers or caregivers. Entrepreneurs like Sara Al Madani and Qadreya Al Awadhi have openly spoken about the personal costs of building something from the ground up while managing family expectations and responsibilities.
Their approaches vary: some lean on family support, others on flexible schedules or tight-knit teams. What they share is an honest acknowledgement that entrepreneurship is not always glamorous. But they also prove that building a business and living a full life can go hand in hand—if the support system is right.
Representation and Visibility
Many of these founders began their journeys when female leadership in their industries was rare. Whether it was Ola Doudin in crypto or Neha Mishra in fine dining, they had to carve space where none existed. They broke stereotypes and opened doors not just for themselves, but for the many women now walking similar paths.
By sharing their experiences openly, through interviews, mentorship, or investments, they’re creating a cycle of empowerment that wasn’t always available to them.
The Power of Community
Support networks have played a crucial role. Organizations like Dubai Business Women Council and platforms like Female Fusion Network have created safe, enriching spaces for women to learn, connect, and grow. Mentorship programs and accelerator initiatives, especially those linked to Dubai SME, continue to provide real tools—not just encouragement—for scaling sustainable businesses.
A Promising Horizon
Looking ahead, the future is full of momentum. Dubai is actively nurturing more spaces for women through co-working hubs, sector-specific accelerators, and grants tailored to women-led ventures. Expo 2020’s legacy includes a greater focus on inclusive innovation, and new initiatives under Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) are set to further elevate the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Importantly, today’s founders are becoming tomorrow’s enablers—joining panels, investing in startups, or shaping policy. The more they rise, the more they uplift others. And in this ripple effect lies the true transformation.
Dubai’s women entrepreneurs are redefining the economy. Across tech, fashion, food, and finance, both Emirati and expat women are creating ventures that reflect bold ideas, personal resilience, and community impact. Supported by government initiatives, inclusive networks, and evolving cultural norms, their businesses are growing faster, reaching wider, and inspiring more women to step forward.
Their journeys remind us that success doesn’t follow one path. It comes through innovation, persistence, and the courage to lead in spaces where few have gone before. As Dubai continues to shape itself into a global centre of entrepreneurship and innovation, women will remain essential to this momentum, founding companies, mentoring others, and proving that the future of business here is proudly, powerfully female.
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