Celebrating Omani Women’s Day and the Leaders Who Inspire Change

Every year on October 17, Oman celebrates Omani Women’s Day — a national occasion declared by the late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said in 2009 to honor the contribution of Omani women in every sphere of society. It is not merely a date on the calendar; it is a reminder that progress, innovation, and compassion are being shaped daily by women whose work is transforming the Sultanate from within.

From ministers and entrepreneurs to climate scientists, educators, and technologists, Omani women continue to redefine leadership and resilience. They are building companies, writing policies, mentoring youth, and driving the nation’s Vision 2040 goals — all while staying rooted in Omani values of balance, culture, and community.

The following list celebrates 20 remarkable Omani women who are leaving their mark on society — in leadership, technology, CSR, education, sustainability, AI, and business. Each embodies the spirit of innovation and service that defines Oman’s journey toward a more inclusive and dynamic future.

1. Rumaitha Al Busaidi – Climate Advocate & Entrepreneur

A marine scientist, radio personality, and climate advocate, Rumaitha is a global voice for sustainability. She serves as Business Development Manager at Hydrom, spearheading Oman’s green hydrogen projects, and founded WomeX, an AI-driven platform mentoring women in leadership. She was also the first female sports analyst in the Arab world — a symbol of breaking barriers.

2. Sheikha Hind Suhail Bahwan – Technology Pioneer

As Founder and Chairperson of Bahwan CyberTek Group, Hind Bahwan transformed her family legacy into a global technology powerhouse. Recognized by Forbes and Harvard Business Review, she champions innovation in AI, renewable energy, and digital transformation, positioning Oman as a regional tech hub.

3. Lujaina Mohsin Darwish – Business Icon & Parliamentarian

Chairperson of ITICS under the Mohsin Haider Darwish Group, Lujaina was among the first women elected to the Shura Council in 2000. Her dual achievements in business and politics make her a symbol of progress and public service in modern Oman.

4. Rawya Saud Al Busaidi – The First Female Minister

A trailblazer for women in governance, Dr. Rawya made history as Oman’s first female minister, serving as Minister of Higher Education for 16 years. Her policies paved the way for thousands of Omani women to access higher education and global opportunities.

5. Madeeha bint Ahmed Al Shibaniyah – Education Visionary

As Oman’s Minister of Education since 2011, Dr. Madeeha has been instrumental in modernizing the national education system, fostering innovation, and integrating digital learning to prepare the next generation for Oman Vision 2040.

6. Aisha bint Khalfan Al Siyabi – Champion of Craftsmanship

Appointed in 2003 as President of the Public Authority for Craft Industries, Aisha was the first woman to hold a minister-level position in Oman. She revitalized traditional crafts, empowering rural women artisans and promoting Omani heritage globally.

7. Laila Al Hadhrami – The Smart Cities Leader

Founder of the Smart Cities Ambassador Program, Laila drives Oman’s digital transformation and sustainability initiatives. Her leadership in AI and urban innovation has made her one of the most influential figures in Oman’s tech ecosystem.

8. Haifa Al Khaifi – CEO of Energy Development Oman

Haifa stands at the forefront of Oman’s energy transition. As CEO of Energy Development Oman (EDO), she leads strategic projects in green energy, while also being recognized by Forbes Middle East among the most powerful women in business.

9. Dr. Raiya Al Hajri – Empowerment and Local Content Innovator

A national advocate for gender equality and local content innovation, Dr. Raiya is recognized for building inclusive ecosystems that elevate Omani women into leadership and entrepreneurship.

10. Dr. Fatma Al Ajmi – Health Transformation Leader

A respected figure in Oman’s healthcare sector, Dr. Fatma has led reforms that improved healthcare access and digitalization. Her leadership during public health challenges has set benchmarks for resilience and modernization.

11. Sayyida Tania Al Said – Voice for the Environment

As President of the Environment Society of Oman (ESO), Sayyida Tania has championed marine conservation, wildlife protection, and environmental education. Her advocacy connects communities and policy around sustainability.

12. Siham Al Harthy – Investor & Business Developer

Co-founder of Siham Development & Investment, she is an advocate for sustainable ventures and women-led entrepreneurship, creating platforms for innovation and responsible business practices in Oman.

13. Khulood Al Hosni – Branding & Leadership Advocate

Known for her dynamic voice in marketing and leadership, Khulood promotes women’s empowerment through storytelling and brand authenticity. She mentors young professionals on how to lead with purpose and visibility.

14. Azza Al Ismaili – Former Minister of Technology

A leading voice in digital transformation, Azza served as Minister of Technology & Communications. She was instrumental in building Oman’s eGovernment strategy and promoting women’s participation in tech industries.

15. Areej Mohsin Darwish – Corporate Leader

Chairperson of the Automotive, Construction Equipment, and Renewable Energy cluster at MHD Group, Areej continues to expand her company’s international presence and is a strong advocate for renewable energy and sustainable business.

16. Amal Suhail Bahwan – Industrial Powerhouse

As Vice Chairperson of Suhail Bahwan Group, Amal oversees one of Oman’s largest conglomerates, diversifying its operations across industries while empowering women in corporate leadership and STEM fields.

17. Huda Al Lawati – Investment Visionary

A prominent figure in private equity and fintech, Huda is the founder and CEO of Aliph Capital. She has helped channel investments into Omani startups and SMEs, nurturing entrepreneurship as a national growth driver.

18. Dr. Amina Al Hajri – Cultural Diplomat

Dr Amina has served as the Assistant Director-General of ICESCO and is currently serving as the Director-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Dr Amina represents Oman’s voice in international education, culture, and science forums, reflecting the nation’s soft power and cultural diplomacy.

19. Dr. Hamida Al Shakri – Global Advocate for Women’s Rights

As Oman’s representative to the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), Dr. Hamida brings Omani values of fairness and equality to global discussions on women’s empowerment.

20. Ibtisam Al Khaifi – CSR and Social Development Leader

A recognized speaker at national leadership forums, Ibtisam is the CEO of Simat Management Consulting. She drives CSR initiatives focused on youth, community, and sustainability — inspiring a new generation of socially conscious Omani leaders.

The Essence of Omani Women’s Day

Omani Women’s Day is not just about honoring achievements; it is about recognizing potential. These twenty women are not exceptions — they represent a growing wave of talent redefining what leadership looks like in the Arab world.

They lead with empathy, act with conviction, and innovate with purpose — proving that the strength of a nation lies not only in its natural resources, but in the brilliance of its people. Oman’s progress is their story, and their story is Oman’s pride.