International Women's Day 2022

IWD 2022: Inspiring Arab women who built their own empires

IWD 2022: Inspiring Arab women who built their own empires

In honor of International Woman’s Day, Arab News shines a light on the inspiring Arab women who have made a mark in the beauty, fashion, entertainment and F&B industries and built successful empires.

  1. Huda Kattan
    Huda Kattan
    The US-Iraqi entrepreneur went from launching faux lashes from her kitchen with a $6,000 loan from her sister to running a record-breaking beauty empire.
  2. Amal Al-Marri and Deem Al-Bassam
    Amal Al-Marri and Deem Al-Bassam
    This is the creative duo behind the Independent Food Company, which currently has seven brands and more than 20 locations in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. They started off with SALT, the famous burger truck outfit that began in 2014 and which has since grown into a business including restaurant chains and more.
  3. Karen Wazen
    Karen Wazen
    In addition to being a major influencer, the Lebanese entrepreneur also runs a successful eyewear business championed by the likes of Demi Lovato and Kourtney Kardashian.
  4. Amina Muaddi
    Amina Muaddi
    The Jordanian-Romanian designer’s distinct footwear has garnered a loyal checklist of famous fans, including Kim Kardashian, Dua Lipa and Rihanna.
  5. Nadine Labaki
    Nadine Labaki
    With multiple awards under her belt, the Lebanese filmmaker Nadine Labaki was also the first Arab woman to be nominated for an Oscar.
  6. Aseel Omran
    Aseel Omran
    With multiple albums and acting roles, the Saudi star has gained a remarkable online following.