Saudi Awwal Bank (SAB), one of Saudi Arabia’s leading financial institutions, has entered into a strategic partnership with WEConnect International, a global non-profit organisation that connects women-owned businesses with qualified buyers worldwide. The collaboration aims to strengthen the role of women entrepreneurs in the Kingdom and support the goals of Vision 2030.
The initiative seeks to enhance women’s participation in the economy by creating an inclusive environment that encourages innovation and sustainable growth. Through the partnership, SAB and WEConnect International will equip women business owners with access to mentorship, resources, and business opportunities designed to support their long-term success.
The partnership was officially announced at an event co-hosted by SAB and WEConnect International at SAB’s flagship Innovation Centre. The event featured networking sessions and panel discussions that showcased the achievements of women entrepreneurs from across Saudi Arabia.
Speaking about the partnership, Lama Ghazzaoui, Chief Financial Officer at SAB, said: “Empowering women in business is not just a matter of equity; it is a strategic imperative for our economy. Through this partnership, we aim to create pathways for women entrepreneurs to thrive, thereby contributing to the Kingdom’s vision of a vibrant and diverse economy.”
This latest collaboration aligns with SAB’s continued efforts to advance female entrepreneurship within the Kingdom. The bank has recently worked with Visa and Monsha’at on the She’s Next programme, which provides grants, mentorship, and training to women entrepreneurs. The initiative forms part of SAB’s broader mission to support a dynamic and inclusive business environment.
Saudi Awwal Bank, with a legacy spanning more than 90 years, remains one of the largest and most established banks in the country. It has long been a key contributor to Saudi Arabia’s economic and social development. SAB is recognised as a market leader in corporate and institutional banking, trade finance, foreign exchange, and wealth and personal banking. It also continues to innovate in digital services, sustainable finance, and ESG initiatives across Saudi Arabia and the wider region.
The bank provides a full range of financial services, including investment, corporate, private banking, and treasury operations. Following its merger with Alawwal Bank on 14 March 2021, SAB’s paid-up capital stands at SR 20.5 billion. The institution operates under the supervision of the Saudi Central Bank and maintains a partnership with the HSBC Group.
