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HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh converses with guests
1/21
In spring 2025, London will once again host the Arab Women of the Year Awards and Arab Women’s Summit. This year, the event will be larger than ever before and include a multi-day schedule of activities and events designed to engage our guests and sponsors.
The event will bring together prominent individuals, organisations, brands and institutions from the UK and Arab world, strengthening ties between them and building relationships.
The Summit will take place at the iconic royal palace, Lancaster House, where women’s voices and experiences will take centre stage, discussing the most topical and important issues of today. The Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner will then be held at one of London’s top hotels, recognising a group of outstanding Arab women for their achievements.
Unlike other women’s summits, we shine a spotlight on the women achieving remarkable things and innovating their fields. We believe this dispels stereotypes and misconceptions, changing the narrative of women as victims and instead spreading a message of the power they can hold. Therefore, every year our sessions are on the most important topics concerning international relations, cultural exchange, innovation and the next generation.
Held annually in the iconic Lancaster House, the Arab Women’s Summit amplifies women’s voices and brings Arab culture into the heart of London.
2025 Speakers
HE Shaikh Fawaz Bin Mohammed Al Khalifa,
Dean for the Council of Arab Ambassadors and Ambassador for the Kingdom of Bahrain
His Excellency Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohamed Al Khalifa has been the Kingdom of Bahrain’s Ambassador to the Court of St. James’s since 2015, with accreditation also to the Republic of Ireland, the Kingdom of Spain and, since February 2023, Iceland.
Prior to his appointment as Ambassador in London, H.E. Shaikh Fawaz held several senior positions in Bahrain, including Minister of State for Communication (2012-2014), President of the Information Affairs Authority (2010-2012), and President of the General Organization for Youth and Sports (2000-2010).
His Excellency Shaikh Fawaz holds a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from the American University in Washington, DC, and a Master's degree in Public Administration from the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. He also graduated from the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst.
The Ambassador has received several notable awards for his outstanding contributions to Bahrain, including the Order of Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, 1st class, the Order of Bahrain, 1st class, and the Order of Achievement, 1st class, as well as the Prince Salman bin Hamad Medal for Medical Merit in recognition of his efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Prior to his appointment as Ambassador in London, H.E. Shaikh Fawaz held several senior positions in Bahrain, including Minister of State for Communication (2012-2014), President of the Information Affairs Authority (2010-2012), and President of the General Organization for Youth and Sports (2000-2010).
His Excellency Shaikh Fawaz holds a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from the American University in Washington, DC, and a Master's degree in Public Administration from the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. He also graduated from the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst.
The Ambassador has received several notable awards for his outstanding contributions to Bahrain, including the Order of Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, 1st class, the Order of Bahrain, 1st class, and the Order of Achievement, 1st class, as well as the Prince Salman bin Hamad Medal for Medical Merit in recognition of his efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ms Nusrat Ghani, Madam Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons, and Chairman of Ways and Means.
Ms Nusrat Ghani is the Conservative MP for Sussex Weald, and has been an MP continually since 7 May 2015. She is Deputy Speaker and Chairman of Ways and Means.
The Rt Hon Sir Hugh Robertson KCMG DL,
Chairman of the British Olympic Association, Chairman of Camelot, Chairman of The Canterbury Cathedral Appeal and Deputy Lieutenant of Kent
Sir Hugh Robertson has been the Chair of Camelot, the operator of the National Lottery, since 2018. During that time, the company has recorded four years of rising sales including record sales figures during the 2019/ 20 and 2020/ 21 financial years. He is also Chair of the British Olympic Association, which won 65 medals, and came fourth, in Tokyo 2020 and returned its highest ever number of medals at a Winter Olympics in PyeongChang in 2018. He was previously Vice Chair during the Rio 2016 Olympics when Team GB won a record medal haul.
He served in Parliament from 2001 - 2015, doubling his majority at both the 2005 and 2010 elections. He was a Minister for Sport and the Olympics during London 2012, an event widely described as the finest Olympic and Paralympic Games of modern times. He was subsequently Minister for the Middle East, North Africa and Counter Terrorism at The Foreign Office taking part in the Kerry Middle East Peace Process and the Geneva Peace talks as well as many other major international negotiations.
Prior to entering Parliament, he worked at Schroder Investment Management and served in the army, seeing active service in Northern Ireland, Cyprus, the first Gulf War and Bosnia. He was made a Privy Counsellor in 2012 and, subsequently, knighted for his work on London 2012 and in the Middle East.
He served in Parliament from 2001 - 2015, doubling his majority at both the 2005 and 2010 elections. He was a Minister for Sport and the Olympics during London 2012, an event widely described as the finest Olympic and Paralympic Games of modern times. He was subsequently Minister for the Middle East, North Africa and Counter Terrorism at The Foreign Office taking part in the Kerry Middle East Peace Process and the Geneva Peace talks as well as many other major international negotiations.
Prior to entering Parliament, he worked at Schroder Investment Management and served in the army, seeing active service in Northern Ireland, Cyprus, the first Gulf War and Bosnia. He was made a Privy Counsellor in 2012 and, subsequently, knighted for his work on London 2012 and in the Middle East.
Yasmine Sabri
International Superstar and London Arabia Ambassador
Yasmine Sabri is an internationally recognised film and tv superstar, she is also the first and only Arab woman to be an ambassador for Cartier.
Yasmine grew up in Egypt, before moving to New York City where she worked while in school. She quickly became very popular and is now the most internationally recognised Egyptian actress. She built her career herself and credits her success to being independent and strong willed.
She was also a professional swimmer in Egypt and enjoys an active lifestyle, while making time to read and take care of her beloved pets.
Throughout her success, Yasmine has also focused a lot of her time and resources on supporting and empowering young Arab girls so they can also achieve their ambitions. She has always been passionate about girls receiving equal education and opportunity. It is for this reason that she became London Arabia’s Ambassador and supports many initiatives focused on empowering women around the world, regardless of their background.
Yasmine grew up in Egypt, before moving to New York City where she worked while in school. She quickly became very popular and is now the most internationally recognised Egyptian actress. She built her career herself and credits her success to being independent and strong willed.
She was also a professional swimmer in Egypt and enjoys an active lifestyle, while making time to read and take care of her beloved pets.
Throughout her success, Yasmine has also focused a lot of her time and resources on supporting and empowering young Arab girls so they can also achieve their ambitions. She has always been passionate about girls receiving equal education and opportunity. It is for this reason that she became London Arabia’s Ambassador and supports many initiatives focused on empowering women around the world, regardless of their background.
Mr Michael Ward, Managing Director of Harrods
Michael began his career in chartered accountancy, training originally with Ernst and Young in 1980, before taking his first Group Finance Director position at Bassett Foods PLC in 1986 gaining an MBA during this time. In 1989 he was appointed Group Finance Director of H.P. Bulmer Holdings PLC, before moving in to the retail space in 1994 as Managing Director of Lloyds Chemists PLC. After a period of senior directorship roles in retail, Michael was invited to join Harrods as Managing Director in 2005. During his time at Harrods he is overseen programmes of huge growth and expansion within the luxury department store, as well as the transition to new ownership by the Qatar Investment Authority.
Michael is a leading voice in the luxury industry and currently holds the position of Chairman of Walpole, the official sector body for UK luxury. Michael is also Chairman of the Knightsbridge Partnership BID, an industry body created to enhance and champion the unique character of Knightsbridge. He was also appointed to the V&A Corporate Advisory Board in August 2020, and became a trustee of the Royal Opera House in 2022 and sits on the Finance and Commercial Committee.
Michael is a leading voice in the luxury industry and currently holds the position of Chairman of Walpole, the official sector body for UK luxury. Michael is also Chairman of the Knightsbridge Partnership BID, an industry body created to enhance and champion the unique character of Knightsbridge. He was also appointed to the V&A Corporate Advisory Board in August 2020, and became a trustee of the Royal Opera House in 2022 and sits on the Finance and Commercial Committee.
Professor Christoph Lindner, President and Vice-Chancellor of the Royal College of Art
Professor Christoph Lindner is President and Vice-Chancellor of the Royal College of Art, the internationally renowned art and design university, where he holds the title of Professor of Visual Culture. He is also a Trustee of the Victoria and Albert Museum, Co-Director of the Helix Centre for Health and Design at Imperial College London, and a Fellow of both the Royal Geographical Society and Royal Society of Arts. His leadership work focuses on advancing educational access and equity, intercultural understanding, and environmental sustainability.
Prof Lindner previously served as Dean of the Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment at University College London. Prior to joining UCL, he was Dean of the College of Design at the University of Oregon, and Professor of Media and Culture at the University of Amsterdam where he directed the Netherlands Institute for Cultural Analysis. He is a leading international scholar of cities and visual culture and has published 15 books in the fields of art, architecture, media and urban geography.
Aisha Hussein Alfardan
Vice Chairwoman, Qatari Businesswomen Association
Personal Advisor to the Chairman – Alfardan Group Holding
Aisha Hussein Alfardan is a prominent Qatari businesswoman, Vice chairwoman of the Qatari Businesswomen Association. In 2006 Alfardan was ranked 24th on the Forbes list of the 50 Top Businesswomen in the Arab Word, which recognized her success, prominence and ambition in the business
world.
Aisha Hussein Alfardan is the daughter of the renowned Qatari businessman, Hussein Alfardan -
Chairman of Alfardan Group of Companies, and is following her father’s footsteps as she has become one of the prominent businesswomen in the Middle East.
Aisha graduated from Qatar University in 1993, with a degree in English literature. She began her
career in the Commercial Bank of Qatar where she worked for over nine years, during which she
climbed the business ladder to become the Ladies Branch Manager.
In 2003, she joined Alfardan Group, to assist her father and brothers in running the family business;
Aisha Hussein Alfardan claims her favorite part about working at Alfardan is “the challenge of continuing to build the legacy that her family has worked so hard to build”.
Aisha Hussein Alfardan actively participates in local, regional and international conferences. She
participated as a speaker in the high level event UNCTAD XII - Women in Development held in Qatar
where she spoke about gender equality and how important it is to empower women and support them
by providing them with education, health care and employment opportunities as she believes “Reducing gender inequality and improving the status of women contributes to higher rates of economic
growth and greater macroeconomic stability”.
As the Vice-Chairwoman of the Qatari Business Women Association, Alfardan has delivered a number
of initiatives that aim to enhance the role of Qatari businesswomen and their contribution to the economy, like Qatar Business Women Award which identifies and acknowledges the contributions Qatari
women make to the country’s society and economy through their professional and entrepreneurial
achievements. This award focuses on women who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and managerial skills within their fields and it has been run 3 times in 2009, 2011, and 2013 and also
the annual Qatar International Businesswomen Forum that was successfully organized in 2010-2014
and has rapidly gained a unique status as a major annual event in Qatar and the region whether in
terms of the size and level of participants, the relevance and rich nature of its topics and debates, and
the expertise of its panelists and speakers.
Aisha Hussein Alfardan has been a prominent business woman in the Arab world, recognized for her
contributions to the country of Qatar and to the world of business. Her achievements are not limited to
the office, as she has become a role model for businesswomen in the Middle East, providing speeches
and networking opportunities for women at business conferences. She has contributed greatly to the
expansion of business in Qatar and has large visions for the continuation of progress in the future.
world.
Aisha Hussein Alfardan is the daughter of the renowned Qatari businessman, Hussein Alfardan -
Chairman of Alfardan Group of Companies, and is following her father’s footsteps as she has become one of the prominent businesswomen in the Middle East.
Aisha graduated from Qatar University in 1993, with a degree in English literature. She began her
career in the Commercial Bank of Qatar where she worked for over nine years, during which she
climbed the business ladder to become the Ladies Branch Manager.
In 2003, she joined Alfardan Group, to assist her father and brothers in running the family business;
Aisha Hussein Alfardan claims her favorite part about working at Alfardan is “the challenge of continuing to build the legacy that her family has worked so hard to build”.
Aisha Hussein Alfardan actively participates in local, regional and international conferences. She
participated as a speaker in the high level event UNCTAD XII - Women in Development held in Qatar
where she spoke about gender equality and how important it is to empower women and support them
by providing them with education, health care and employment opportunities as she believes “Reducing gender inequality and improving the status of women contributes to higher rates of economic
growth and greater macroeconomic stability”.
As the Vice-Chairwoman of the Qatari Business Women Association, Alfardan has delivered a number
of initiatives that aim to enhance the role of Qatari businesswomen and their contribution to the economy, like Qatar Business Women Award which identifies and acknowledges the contributions Qatari
women make to the country’s society and economy through their professional and entrepreneurial
achievements. This award focuses on women who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and managerial skills within their fields and it has been run 3 times in 2009, 2011, and 2013 and also
the annual Qatar International Businesswomen Forum that was successfully organized in 2010-2014
and has rapidly gained a unique status as a major annual event in Qatar and the region whether in
terms of the size and level of participants, the relevance and rich nature of its topics and debates, and
the expertise of its panelists and speakers.
Aisha Hussein Alfardan has been a prominent business woman in the Arab world, recognized for her
contributions to the country of Qatar and to the world of business. Her achievements are not limited to
the office, as she has become a role model for businesswomen in the Middle East, providing speeches
and networking opportunities for women at business conferences. She has contributed greatly to the
expansion of business in Qatar and has large visions for the continuation of progress in the future.
Omar Bdour,
CEO of London Arabia Organisation, and Arab Women's Summit
Omar Bdour is the CEO of London Arabia Organisation: an organisation started with the aim to strengthen cultural and business relationships between the UK and the Arab world. Omar oversees the Arab Women of the Year Awards and London Arabia Art & Fashion Week, which celebrate the incredible Arab culture in London and the United Kingdom.
Omar is passionate about his personal mission to encourage better relations between the two regions, an aim evident in his previous work establishing LocalArabia as the first bilingual Arabic-English Newspaper, as well as work in the Arab British Chamber of Commerce from 2007-2015. His previous experience throughout his two-decade career has given him unique insight into relations between Arab and British businesses, governments, brands, and diplomats. For this, he is widely known in London as a leader in cultural exchange and international relations.
Omar is also the author of Trust Me, I’m An Arab, a book that serves as a guide to difference between Arab and Western business, in order to bridge the gap and aid in the forging of successful business relations. This is the culmination of many years or work teaching western companies and organisations on how to improve cross-cultural communication with their Arab colleagues, clients, and counterparts. He has also moderated and spoken at different events with a focus on Arab women and cross- cultural communications.
Omar is passionate about his personal mission to encourage better relations between the two regions, an aim evident in his previous work establishing LocalArabia as the first bilingual Arabic-English Newspaper, as well as work in the Arab British Chamber of Commerce from 2007-2015. His previous experience throughout his two-decade career has given him unique insight into relations between Arab and British businesses, governments, brands, and diplomats. For this, he is widely known in London as a leader in cultural exchange and international relations.
Omar is also the author of Trust Me, I’m An Arab, a book that serves as a guide to difference between Arab and Western business, in order to bridge the gap and aid in the forging of successful business relations. This is the culmination of many years or work teaching western companies and organisations on how to improve cross-cultural communication with their Arab colleagues, clients, and counterparts. He has also moderated and spoken at different events with a focus on Arab women and cross- cultural communications.
HE Khawla Al Armouti
Member of The Senate of
the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
HE Khawla Al Armouti has been a member of the Senate of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan for two consecutive terms, where she is also the Chairwoman of the Women’s Committee. Through this role, she takes action to empower women and support their economic, political and social standing in order to enable their advancement to higher positions. She has also been the Chairwoman of the Jordanian-Qatari Brotherhood Committee for two consecutive terms.
She completed her early education at the Islamic Educational College and graduated from the University of Jordan with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, commencing her career as a social and political activist. HE Ms Khawla was appointed as the first female president of the Islamic Educational College Alumni Committee. In 2013, she became a Board Member of Haya Cultural Center, a non-profit organization established for the purpose of developing the capacities of children in the fields of art and culture. In 2016, HE Ms Khawla was appointed as the Minister of Development, whereby she worked on establishing proactive projects that focus on the reduction of poverty and the increase in employment levels.
HE Ms Khawla is also on the Board of Trustees of the Jordan River Foundation, a non-governmental organization established and chaired by Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah with a focus on child safety and community empowerment, the Chairman of the Board of SUNBULA (NGO) for student support and Chairman of the Board of Ayadi Mudee’a, an organisation for training and development, through which she established opportunities to finance business projects and support families so that they become financially independent.
In 2023, she received the Arab Women of the Year Award for Achievement in Education and in 2024 she received the Issa bin Ali Al Khalifa Award in Bahrain for Volunteer Work. She has also been selected among the top ten most powerful women in Jordan.
She completed her early education at the Islamic Educational College and graduated from the University of Jordan with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, commencing her career as a social and political activist. HE Ms Khawla was appointed as the first female president of the Islamic Educational College Alumni Committee. In 2013, she became a Board Member of Haya Cultural Center, a non-profit organization established for the purpose of developing the capacities of children in the fields of art and culture. In 2016, HE Ms Khawla was appointed as the Minister of Development, whereby she worked on establishing proactive projects that focus on the reduction of poverty and the increase in employment levels.
HE Ms Khawla is also on the Board of Trustees of the Jordan River Foundation, a non-governmental organization established and chaired by Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah with a focus on child safety and community empowerment, the Chairman of the Board of SUNBULA (NGO) for student support and Chairman of the Board of Ayadi Mudee’a, an organisation for training and development, through which she established opportunities to finance business projects and support families so that they become financially independent.
In 2023, she received the Arab Women of the Year Award for Achievement in Education and in 2024 she received the Issa bin Ali Al Khalifa Award in Bahrain for Volunteer Work. She has also been selected among the top ten most powerful women in Jordan.
HH AlSayyida Basma Al Said
A well-established Psychotherapist and Clinical Hypnotherapist, owner and founder of the first mental health center in Oman, Whispers of Serenity Clinic. Serenity clinic is a holistic well-being center. She is also a mental health consultant and psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience seeing and treating patients from a wide array of disorders. She holds a master’s degree in Health Counseling in 2008 from Curtin University of Technology in Australia. Sayyida Basma is a pioneer in mental health issues awareness and is renowned for dealing head on with taboo subjects in the Middle East such as abuse and eating disorders. She is one of the few psychotherapists in the Gulf to use techniques such Hypnotherapy as well as her most recently earned training of Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PET) for PTSD from Harvard University. On 2014, Her Highness initiated “Not Alone” an ongoing campaign to create societal awareness of the importance of mental well- being. This is a living proof of her dedication and ambition towards the betterment of the society. Not Alone campaign has opened a messaging support line on the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic where it provides a psychological and emotional support dedicated to teens, the elderly and most importantly, the frontline health workers. She also spearheaded on providing free counseling for individuals and groups during the second wave of COVID-19 in India, Beirut incident and the current situation for Palestinians. Moreover, she is the current Honorary President of Oman Heritage – a team that looks after and preserves Omani practices and culture. Recognized not only in the Arab world but also internationally, she has attended and delivered a total of 800 in governmental and 400 in private institutional talks, workshop and webinars. She also has been featured and interviewed by prominent networks and media such as CNN Arabia, Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar Arabia to name a few. Awarded as International Social Responsibility Ambassador by The International Union for Social Responsibility (IUSR) on July this year and has been honored as one of the 50 Omani women who have played a significant role in the country’s development and for their achievements in the field of their work by the Honorable Lady, Wife of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik on Omani Women’s Day 2020.
Baria Alamuddin, Award Winning Journalist, writer, Middle East Expert and Activist.
Baria Alamuddin is an award-winning international journalist and broadcaster. She has interviewed numerous heads of state, including Margaret Thatcher, Benazir Bhutto, King Hussain of Jordan, Yasser Arafat and Fidel Castro, to name a few. Baria was the last journalist to interview Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Over the course of her career she interviewed hundreds of Western, Arab and global politicians, diplomats, cultural figures and other luminaries.
Baria is also considered an expert on the Middle East and is frequently consulted for her insight and opinion by government and institutions, and frequently lectures at universities and education centres.
Baria is also a firm advocate for women’s rights and works tirelessly support women’s empowerment wherever she can. She is known for taking a hard stance to support human rights and the values she believes in.
Anthea Peers, President of - Christie’s Europe, Middle East and Africa
Anthea Peers is President, Christie’s EMEA, following her appointment to the position in March 2022.
Anthea Peers joined Christie’s in 2006, successfully developing a diversified career, prior to her current role holding the position of Global Managing Director of Private Sales (since 2019), an area of the business which saw its best year to date in 2021, leading the market with $1.7B in private sales. Prior to this, Anthea was Client Strategy Director for the Classic Art Group and led plans for the then new Classic Week series of sales, now a regular auction fixture globally at Christie’s. She has also worked as Business Director in Old Masters, as a paralegal, in client development, and across many departments including 20/21, and Estates, Appraisals and Valuations. Anthea has been at Christie’s for 17 years.
Capitalising on strong institutional knowledge together with a strong talent for problem-solving and management, Anthea is well positioned to lead the EMEA region. In this leadership role for EMEA, based in London, Anthea joins Christie’s dynamic team of regional presidents, alongside Bonnie Brennan, President Americas, Cécile Verdier, President France, and Francis Belin, President Asia Pacific.
Anthea Peers joined Christie’s in 2006, successfully developing a diversified career, prior to her current role holding the position of Global Managing Director of Private Sales (since 2019), an area of the business which saw its best year to date in 2021, leading the market with $1.7B in private sales. Prior to this, Anthea was Client Strategy Director for the Classic Art Group and led plans for the then new Classic Week series of sales, now a regular auction fixture globally at Christie’s. She has also worked as Business Director in Old Masters, as a paralegal, in client development, and across many departments including 20/21, and Estates, Appraisals and Valuations. Anthea has been at Christie’s for 17 years.
Capitalising on strong institutional knowledge together with a strong talent for problem-solving and management, Anthea is well positioned to lead the EMEA region. In this leadership role for EMEA, based in London, Anthea joins Christie’s dynamic team of regional presidents, alongside Bonnie Brennan, President Americas, Cécile Verdier, President France, and Francis Belin, President Asia Pacific.
2024 Speakers
The Rt Hon
Theresa May MP,
Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
Theresa May served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 2016 to 2019 - the second woman ever to hold the office.
Her premiership marked the culmination of 21 years’ continuous service on the front bench, having held a total of 14 ministerial or shadow ministerial posts, serving as the first female Chairman of the Conservative Party and the longest-serving Conservative Home Secretary for over a century.
In addition to her duties as a Member of Parliament, Theresa regularly undertakes philanthropic and campaigning work around the world.
Her premiership marked the culmination of 21 years’ continuous service on the front bench, having held a total of 14 ministerial or shadow ministerial posts, serving as the first female Chairman of the Conservative Party and the longest-serving Conservative Home Secretary for over a century.
In addition to her duties as a Member of Parliament, Theresa regularly undertakes philanthropic and campaigning work around the world.
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon,
Prime Minister’s Special Representative for Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict and Minister of State (Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, United Nations and the Commonwealth)
Lord Ahmad was appointed as the Special Representative on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict and as Minister of the State of the Commonwealth and the United Nations in 2017, a position he held until 2020. In 2022, he was appointed Minister for South and Central Asia, North Africa, United Nation and the Commonwealth until September 2022, when he took up his current position.
Lord Ahmad has had a long and diverse political career beginning in 2002, including positions in the Conservative Party Leadership, Home Office, Department of Transport, and the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief. Prior to his political career, Lord Ahmad also had a 20-year career in banking and finance. His diverse background makes him an expert in a range of topics and gives him unique insight into the government and international relations.
In his position as the Prime Minister’s Special Representative for Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict, Lord Ahmad has worked to strengthen accountability, provide greater support for survivors, ensure gender equality is fully integrated in all peace and security efforts, and deliver a more effective multilateral response to crimes of sexual violence in conflict. He also chairs the cross-Whitehall ministerial committee which brings together the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Ministry of Defence, and Home Office.
Lord Ahmad has had a long and diverse political career beginning in 2002, including positions in the Conservative Party Leadership, Home Office, Department of Transport, and the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief. Prior to his political career, Lord Ahmad also had a 20-year career in banking and finance. His diverse background makes him an expert in a range of topics and gives him unique insight into the government and international relations.
In his position as the Prime Minister’s Special Representative for Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict, Lord Ahmad has worked to strengthen accountability, provide greater support for survivors, ensure gender equality is fully integrated in all peace and security efforts, and deliver a more effective multilateral response to crimes of sexual violence in conflict. He also chairs the cross-Whitehall ministerial committee which brings together the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Ministry of Defence, and Home Office.
Nusrat Ghani, MP, Minister of State at the Department for Business and Trade, Minister of State for the Investment Security Unit and Minister for Industry and Economic Security
Nusrat Ghani is the Conservative MP for Wealden, East Sussex, currently serving as Minister of State for Industry and Economic Security at the Department of Business & Trade and as the Minister of State for the Investment Security Unit at the Cabinet Office, with a portfolio scoping from the National Security and Investment Act, Ukraine reconstruction, supply chains and critical minerals, to advanced manufacturing including automotive, aerospace and maritime. Nusrat was first elected in 2015, becoming the first female MP to hold the seat.
Previously, Nusrat was the Minister of State for Industry and Investment Security at the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS). Prior to that, Nusrat also previously served as a Minister for Transport, making British history in 2018 as the first Muslim woman to speak from the Dispatch Box as a Minister. Her portfolio included Maritime, HS2, Buses, Taxis, Accessibility and Year of Engineering.
She has previously served on the BEIS, Home Affairs and Foreign Affairs Select Committees and was elected as rapporteur of the NATO’s Science and Technology Committee. Nusrat was a runner up to Nancy Pelosi, in the NATO Parliamentary Assembly Women for Peace and Security Award 2021, for her work on the plight of the Uyghurs, China, and Afghanistan. She also secured the support of Conservative MPs to serve as Vice Chair of the 1922 Backbench Committee between 2020-2022.
Nusrat is the only female Member of Parliament to be sanctioned by the Chinese Communist Party, and she has also been sanctioned by Russia for her tough stance on the invasion of Ukraine, which makes her the only woman in Parliament to be sanctioned by two countries.
Previously, Nusrat was the Minister of State for Industry and Investment Security at the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS). Prior to that, Nusrat also previously served as a Minister for Transport, making British history in 2018 as the first Muslim woman to speak from the Dispatch Box as a Minister. Her portfolio included Maritime, HS2, Buses, Taxis, Accessibility and Year of Engineering.
She has previously served on the BEIS, Home Affairs and Foreign Affairs Select Committees and was elected as rapporteur of the NATO’s Science and Technology Committee. Nusrat was a runner up to Nancy Pelosi, in the NATO Parliamentary Assembly Women for Peace and Security Award 2021, for her work on the plight of the Uyghurs, China, and Afghanistan. She also secured the support of Conservative MPs to serve as Vice Chair of the 1922 Backbench Committee between 2020-2022.
Nusrat is the only female Member of Parliament to be sanctioned by the Chinese Communist Party, and she has also been sanctioned by Russia for her tough stance on the invasion of Ukraine, which makes her the only woman in Parliament to be sanctioned by two countries.
HE Shaikh Fawaz Bin Mohammed Al Khalifa,
Dean for the Council of Arab Ambassadors and Ambassador for the Kingdom of Bahrain
His Excellency Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohamed Al Khalifa has been the Kingdom of Bahrain’s Ambassador to the Court of St. James’s since 2015, with accreditation also to the Republic of Ireland, the Kingdom of Spain and, since February 2023, Iceland.
Prior to his appointment as Ambassador in London, H.E. Shaikh Fawaz held several senior positions in Bahrain, including Minister of State for Communication (2012-2014), President of the Information Affairs Authority (2010-2012), and President of the General Organization for Youth and Sports (2000-2010).
His Excellency Shaikh Fawaz holds a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from the American University in Washington, DC, and a Master's degree in Public Administration from the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. He also graduated from the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst.
The Ambassador has received several notable awards for his outstanding contributions to Bahrain, including the Order of Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, 1st class, the Order of Bahrain, 1st class, and the Order of Achievement, 1st class, as well as the Prince Salman bin Hamad Medal for Medical Merit in recognition of his efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Prior to his appointment as Ambassador in London, H.E. Shaikh Fawaz held several senior positions in Bahrain, including Minister of State for Communication (2012-2014), President of the Information Affairs Authority (2010-2012), and President of the General Organization for Youth and Sports (2000-2010).
His Excellency Shaikh Fawaz holds a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from the American University in Washington, DC, and a Master's degree in Public Administration from the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. He also graduated from the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst.
The Ambassador has received several notable awards for his outstanding contributions to Bahrain, including the Order of Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, 1st class, the Order of Bahrain, 1st class, and the Order of Achievement, 1st class, as well as the Prince Salman bin Hamad Medal for Medical Merit in recognition of his efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Omar Bdour,
CEO of London Arabia Organisation, and Arab Women's Summit
Omar Bdour is the CEO and Founder of London Arabia Organisation: an organisation started with the aim to strengthen cultural and business relationships between the UK and the Arab world. Omar oversees the Arab Women of the Year Awards and London Arabia Art & Fashion Week, which celebrate the incredible Arab culture in London and the United Kingdom.
Omar is passionate about his personal mission to encourage better relations between the two regions, an aim evident in his previous work establishing LocalArabia as the first bilingual Arabic-English Newspaper, as well as work in the Arab British Chamber of Commerce from 2007-2015. His previous experience throughout his two-decade career has given him unique insight into relations between Arab and British businesses, governments, brands, and diplomats. For this, he is widely known in London as a leader in cultural exchange and international relations.
Omar is also the author of Trust Me, I’m An Arab, a book that serves as a guide to difference between Arab and Western business, in order to bridge the gap and aid in the forging of successful business relations. This is the culmination of many years or work teaching western companies and organisations on how to improve cross-cultural communication with their Arab colleagues, clients, and counterparts. He has also moderated and spoken at different events with a focus on Arab women and cross- cultural communications.
Omar is passionate about his personal mission to encourage better relations between the two regions, an aim evident in his previous work establishing LocalArabia as the first bilingual Arabic-English Newspaper, as well as work in the Arab British Chamber of Commerce from 2007-2015. His previous experience throughout his two-decade career has given him unique insight into relations between Arab and British businesses, governments, brands, and diplomats. For this, he is widely known in London as a leader in cultural exchange and international relations.
Omar is also the author of Trust Me, I’m An Arab, a book that serves as a guide to difference between Arab and Western business, in order to bridge the gap and aid in the forging of successful business relations. This is the culmination of many years or work teaching western companies and organisations on how to improve cross-cultural communication with their Arab colleagues, clients, and counterparts. He has also moderated and spoken at different events with a focus on Arab women and cross- cultural communications.
HH Sheikha Mozah bint Marwan Al Maktoum, Pilot and Board Member of Shehana Women in Aviation Association
Her Highness Sheikha Mozah bint Marwan Al Maktoum achievements are just as impressive as her family lineage.
The youngest in her class at the Oxford Aviation, she was only 17 when she was admitted. She obtained her commercial pilot licence first and then later joined the Dubai Police Airwing as first lieutenant pilot, becoming the first woman in the UAE and the Gulf Region, and the first member of the Royal Family in aviation. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Air Transport Management from Coventry University, UK, and Emirates Aviation University.
Her ambitions are only matched by her determination to create a legacy of her own, opening doors and enabling other women to enter a career in aviation.
With this mission in mind, she set in motion the establishment of “Shehana”, the Women in Aviation Association, with the sole purpose to create opportunities and a framework for increasing the number of women joining the aviation sector.
Her motto is: “Reach altitude with the right attitude”.
The youngest in her class at the Oxford Aviation, she was only 17 when she was admitted. She obtained her commercial pilot licence first and then later joined the Dubai Police Airwing as first lieutenant pilot, becoming the first woman in the UAE and the Gulf Region, and the first member of the Royal Family in aviation. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Air Transport Management from Coventry University, UK, and Emirates Aviation University.
Her ambitions are only matched by her determination to create a legacy of her own, opening doors and enabling other women to enter a career in aviation.
With this mission in mind, she set in motion the establishment of “Shehana”, the Women in Aviation Association, with the sole purpose to create opportunities and a framework for increasing the number of women joining the aviation sector.
Her motto is: “Reach altitude with the right attitude”.
Her Highness Princess Noura bint Faisal Al Saud
FOUNDER, CULTURE HOUSE
Her Highness Princess Noura bint Faisal Al Saud founded Culture House in 2022 as a Saudi boutique consultancy providing advisory and implementation services related to culture, creativity, and sustainable business. Culture House signifies Her Highness’s return to private sector after successfully establishing the Fashion Commission at the Ministry of Culture. Princess Noura joined the Ministry of Culture in June 2019 where she led Strategy Development for the fashion sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, building local and international partnerships with fashion institutions and nurturing Saudi fashion talent. She was part of the team that developed the Commission’s flagship outreach projects, including the Fashion Futures annual conference and digital platform, as well as mentorship program Saudi 100 Brands. Through her appointment as the Commission’s Ecosystem Integration & Program Delivery General Manager, Princess Noura oversaw the implementation of the strategy’s initiatives ensuring their delivery at standards of excellence with measurable impact.
Princess Noura’s entrepreneurial career commenced in 2009 in the United States, and in 2015 she co-founded her first business, focused on talent and lifestyle, before launching Global Fashion House, a fashion consultancy based in Riyadh. It was with this company that in April 2018 Princess Noura organized the Saudi Kingdom’s first ever Fashion Week, bringing together international and local stakeholders and designers for knowledge-sharing, shows and collaborative opportunities. These efforts led to her being recognized as an expert and pioneer in the Kingdom’s fashion industry, frequently called upon by both public and private sector for advisory consulting.
She graduated from Effat University in Jeddah with a bachelor’s degree in Business and Marketing, and a master’s degree in International Business with a Japanese Perspective from Rikkyo University in Tokyo, Japan. She was an associate member of the “Saudi Fast Growth 100” program, launched by All World Network, an entrepreneurship organization, in collaboration with the General Investment Authority (SAGIA). Princess Noura is fluent in Arabic, English, French and Japanese.
In 2023 Princess Noura was recognised as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, and became Chairwoman of the Forbes Middle East Women’s Summit, a position that she continues to occupy.
Princess Noura’s entrepreneurial career commenced in 2009 in the United States, and in 2015 she co-founded her first business, focused on talent and lifestyle, before launching Global Fashion House, a fashion consultancy based in Riyadh. It was with this company that in April 2018 Princess Noura organized the Saudi Kingdom’s first ever Fashion Week, bringing together international and local stakeholders and designers for knowledge-sharing, shows and collaborative opportunities. These efforts led to her being recognized as an expert and pioneer in the Kingdom’s fashion industry, frequently called upon by both public and private sector for advisory consulting.
She graduated from Effat University in Jeddah with a bachelor’s degree in Business and Marketing, and a master’s degree in International Business with a Japanese Perspective from Rikkyo University in Tokyo, Japan. She was an associate member of the “Saudi Fast Growth 100” program, launched by All World Network, an entrepreneurship organization, in collaboration with the General Investment Authority (SAGIA). Princess Noura is fluent in Arabic, English, French and Japanese.
In 2023 Princess Noura was recognised as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, and became Chairwoman of the Forbes Middle East Women’s Summit, a position that she continues to occupy.
Kiran Haslam, Chief Marketing Officer at the Diriyah Company
Kiran currently holds the position of Chief Marketing Officer for Diriyah Company and is responsible for re-establishing Diriyah’s position within the Kingdom and globally as not just as the birthplace of the Kingdom, but also as a centre for the preservation of heritage and perpetuator of Saudi culture and heritage. This pedestrian and urban city, anchored on the UNESCO World Heritage site of At-Turaif, will play a significant role in redefining Saudi Arabia as a destination.
Prior to joining Diriyah Company, Kiran’s career spanned multiple continents, where he played a key role in reinventing two of the world’s most powerful luxury brands in both the luxury yachting and luxury automotive spheres. He has established and branded progressive media platforms in the Middle East; authored two children’s story books; toured the world as an acclaimed musician and composer - and has been recognized as an influential and powerful public speaker with a creatively disruptive and strategic mind. The Australian, Perth-born, nomad studied Marine Biology and graduated in Engineering Technology from Deakin University before pursuing his Masters in Guitar from Berklee (Boston), and has lived, studied and worked across South and Central Asia, the Middle East, Central Europe, and the United Kingdom, with his wife, 2 children and 17-year-old cat.
Prior to joining Diriyah Company, Kiran’s career spanned multiple continents, where he played a key role in reinventing two of the world’s most powerful luxury brands in both the luxury yachting and luxury automotive spheres. He has established and branded progressive media platforms in the Middle East; authored two children’s story books; toured the world as an acclaimed musician and composer - and has been recognized as an influential and powerful public speaker with a creatively disruptive and strategic mind. The Australian, Perth-born, nomad studied Marine Biology and graduated in Engineering Technology from Deakin University before pursuing his Masters in Guitar from Berklee (Boston), and has lived, studied and worked across South and Central Asia, the Middle East, Central Europe, and the United Kingdom, with his wife, 2 children and 17-year-old cat.
Agenda - Coming Soon...
29th April
Welcome Reception at the UK Parliament
30th April
1st May
Arab Women's Summit at Lancaster House
11th Arab Women of the Year Awards
Have your say.
Get involved in the 2025 Arab Women’s Summit today and help us shape the agenda, speakers and more at the event. Contact us at info@londonarabia.com for more information.
Lancaster House
Lancaster House (originally known as York House and then Stafford House) is a royal palace on The Mall in the St James's district in the West End of London. Situated close to Buckingham Palace, this historic house offers a magnificent setting, as much of the site was once part of the palace grounds. Initially planned for Prince Frederick, Duke of York and Albany, it was ultimately completed by the Duke of Sutherland, then Marquess of Stafford, as an aristocratic townhouse in the early 19th century, and known for its lavish interiors. Gifted to the government in the early 20th century, it houses the government's wine cellars and was home to the London Museum until World War II. Now used for diplomatic receptions and related functions by the Foreign Office, it is a historic Grade I listed building, and its interiors are sometimes used in films or television as a stand in for Buckingham Palace.
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