HRH Prince of the Eastern Province Opens the 2026 Women’s Economic Forum

HRH Prince Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Eastern Province, today, Wednesday, November 4, 2026, opened the 2026 Women’s Economic Forum, organized by Asharqia Chamber through its Women’s Empowerment Center for its ninth edition under the theme “From Empowerment to Economic Impact.” The forum was held at the Chamber’s main headquarters, with a distinguished group of leaders, officials, experts, academics, businesspeople, and those interested in economic affairs in attendance.

The Governor of the Eastern Province highlighted the support and attention the Saudi woman receives from the wise leadership, may God preserve them, which have strengthened her presence and participation across various fields. He affirmed that her achievements in the economic sector reflect her capabilities and competencies, and contribute to supporting the national economy and enhancing its competitiveness.

For his part, Chairman of Asharqia Chamber’s Board of Directors, Fahad bin Abdullah Al-Farraj, explained that, under the wise leadership, may God preserve them, Saudi women have received support that has strengthened their standing and expanded their participation in work, production, and leadership. This reflects a national vision that recognizes investment in women’s capabilities as a key pillar of developing the national economy and enhancing its competitiveness. He noted that the forum’s objectives and themes, along with the programs and initiatives implemented by the Chamber, contribute to empowering women across various economic activities.

Al-Farraj noted that this support is clearly reflected in indicators of women’s participation in the labor market and economic sectors. He stated that approximately 1.7 million Saudi women are registered in the labor market, more than 1.1 million of whom work in the private sector. The Kingdom also ranked first globally in empowering women in artificial intelligence, while women’s participation in the technology sector rose from 7% in 2017 to 35%. Their representation in senior and middle management positions reached 43.9%.

For her part, Chairwoman of the Businesswomen’s Council, Engineer Manal bint Abdulrahman Al-Bawardi, said that Saudi Vision 2030 has ushered in an exceptional era in which Saudi women have become active partners in creating economic opportunities and driving growth. She affirmed that the next phase requires a shift from “empowerment” to “impact” by maximizing the added value of women’s economic participation and supporting the establishment of businesses and expanding their access to markets and sources of financing.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Governor of the Eastern Province honored the sponsors and supporters.