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Women Entrepreneurs in the Arab Region

The overthrow of authoritative regimes, who had denied their citizens political, social and

economic freedoms, has sparked intense activities in many Arab countries with the purpose

of developing political mechanisms that will foster long-term economic development.

Economic development is an essential element for the stability of a fragile state. Certainly,

the state of Arab countries after the revolution has been far from stable. And according to

Gayle Tzemach Lemmon, promoting entrepreneurship in vulnerable economies, especially

small and medium enterprises (SMEs), contributes to a more durable and stable economic

growth.iSME owners in vulnerable zones face a number of obstacles, regardless of their

gender, however women tend to experience these challenges more acutely. In the wake of the

Arab uprisings, questions have arisen about the space Arab women will be allowed in the

economic and political domains. Arab women played a major role in these popular

movements, therefore their participation in the aftermath is essential to help build more stable

economies. In fact, a growing body of research show that allowing economic opportunities

for women leads not only to peace and stability but also contributes to the economic growth

of a country.

Challenges facing Arab women

According to the recent Gallup poll, only 32% of Arab women (ages 23-29) participate in

workforce, the lowest rate of any region.ii

High unemployment rates are one reason why a

wide gender gap persists in workforce. When unemployment is high, there are not enough

jobs to support the employment of women. Female job seekers become discouraged at the

discovery of the limited employment opportunities offered by the private sector. This leads

them to focus on public sector jobs because they perceive them to be the dominant source of

employment and income. However, turning away from the private sector reduces the

entrepreneurial spirit among young Arab women. Also, Arab women from the middle class

particularly feel that they are completely shut out from financing sources whereas, the poor

rely on micro-finance sources and the upper class women rely on their wealth and status.iii

Another challenge facing Arab women is that they tend to experience poor access to markets,

capital and networks, in addition to weak skills training and development. Women in the job

market may also lack professional female peers to provide mentoring and networking

opportunities to them. This is a major impediment especially in gulf countries which limit theintermingling of men and women and restrict womens mobility. In fact, social norms in

individual countries may explain many of the gender gaps in employment. Social acceptance

remains low and traditional norms limit a womans choice. Ensuring young women access to

the job market and encouraging their entrepreneurial endeavours will certainly revive the

untapped economic potential of Arab countries.

Solutions and Policy actions

Women clearly need better employment opportunities and an environment which fosters

entrepreneurship. Sweet-talking women about their involvement in the workforce is notenough. Intentions should be followed by actual engagement efforts and supportive

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