DUBAI — The vibrant tapestry of arts, culture, and sports in the Arab world is enriched by the remarkable contributions of women who not only push boundaries but also foster inclusivity and create a space for diverse voices to be heard. This list, curated by TRENDS, honors the achievements of five outstanding Arab women who leave a lasting impact in their respective fields, inspire countless individuals, and shape the future of these interconnected domains.
These women represent a diverse spectrum of backgrounds and expertise. From spearheading the growth of new sports federations to overseeing prestigious cultural events and promoting community development through sports initiatives, their journeys showcase dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Amal Algrafi, the CEO of the Saudi Arabian Rugby Federation, exemplifies visionary leadership, leveraging her extensive background to drive the sport’s expansion within the region. Jumana Al Darwish, a multifaceted entrepreneur and social advocate, champions gender equality in the tech sphere while utilizing her expertise to empower aspiring entrepreneurs across diverse fields.
Lama Maghrabi, through her role at Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Sport, plays a crucial part in promoting physical activity and fostering a culture of sportsmanship. Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi, Director of SIFF and FANN, embodies the spirit of nurturing the next generation of artists and cultural leaders through her dedication to youth empowerment. Finally, Sheikha Hessa bint Khalid Al Khalifa, a passionate advocate for women’s soccer, serves as an inspiration for individuals to pursue their dreams while contributing positively to their communities.
Their stories challenge stereotypes and demonstrate the transformative power of passion, dedication, and a commitment to breaking down barriers. As they continue to shape the landscape of arts, culture, and sports, they pave the way for a more inclusive and vibrant future for future generations.
Let’s delve deeper into the inspiring journeys and groundbreaking contributions of these remarkable women who are enriching the cultural landscape and inspiring and empowering individuals across the Arab world and beyond.
Notable Arab Women in Arts, Culture, and Sports
Amal Algrafi
Nationality: Saudi Arabian
Amal Algrafi, the Chief Executive Officer of the Saudi Arabian Rugby Federation, is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. With educational credentials from esteemed institutions such as HKU Business School, Columbia Business School, and London Business School, Algrafi brings a wealth of knowledge to her role. She plays a pivotal role in driving the development and growth of rugby within Saudi Arabia, contributing significantly to the sport’s expansion in the region.
Jumana Al Darwish
Nationality: Jordanian
Jumana Al Darwish, a prominent figure in entrepreneurship and Web3 investment, has made her mark as a serial entrepreneur, startup founder, and social entrepreneur. With her expertise in bridging the gender tech gap and consulting on Web3 and blockchain technologies, Al Darwish serves as a mentor and public speaker. Her philanthropic and public service contributions underscore her dedication to driving positive change in society.
Lama Maghrabi
Nationality: Saudi Arabian
Lama Maghrabi, serving as the Manager of Operations and the Event Family Section at the General Sports Authority within Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Sport, plays a critical role in managing sports events and operations. With an academic background from King Abdulaziz University, Maghrabi leverages her expertise to promote and organize sports activities, fostering a culture of sportsmanship and wellness within the kingdom.
Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi
Nationality: Emirati
Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi is renowned for her multifaceted contributions to community development, focusing on social, cultural, philanthropic, and sporting causes. As the Director of SIFF (Sharjah International Film Festival) and FANN (Sharjah Media Arts for Youth and Children), she nurtures the next generation and champions their empowerment. Her commitment to making a difference underscores her dedication to fostering positive societal change.
Sheikha Hessa bint Khalid Al Khalifa
Nationality: Bahraini
Sheikha Hessa bint Khalid Al Khalifa, holding an MBA from DePaul University, is fluent in Arabic, English, Spanish, and Tagalog. Passionate about soccer, she played a pivotal role in establishing the Bahrain Women’s National Soccer Team and the country’s women’s league. She encourages Bahrainis to pursue their passions and contribute positively to their country, emphasizing the importance of dedication and hard work.