Last month, Secretary General Lisa O’Keefe MBE and Chair Annamarie Phelps CBE OLY embarked on a significant visit to the Middle East, strengthening ties and learning from initiatives aimed at advancing opportunities for women and girls in sport. Their journey took them across Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain, where they engaged with key stakeholders, shared best practices, and explored opportunities to expand IWG’s ‘network of networks.’
Reflecting on the trip, Lisa O’Keefe said:
“I have been fortunate enough to visit the Gulf several times in the past seven years, and each time I’ve come across individuals and organisations committed to making real change happen—often at pace. Our role at IWG Women and Sport is to help share these stories, collect interesting practices, and connect networks across the region.”
Saudi Arabia (12 -15 February 2025)
In Jeddah, Lisa joined the ‘Women in Motorsport’ conference hosted by Women in Middle East and North Africa (WiMENA), where she participated in a panel on the ‘Development of Youth Programmes’ alongside Lina Khaled Almaeena and Katy Storie.
“It was inspiring to see the work being done to increase the number of women and girls in motorsport. From career opportunities to role models, the discussions reinforced the importance of investment, pathways, and mentorship.”
Lisa also connected with Lina, co-founder of Jeddah United, the first private sports club in Saudi Arabia training both girls and boys in team sports.
Kuwait (15-16 February 2025)
In Kuwait, Lisa and her team met with key stakeholders involved in the FCDO Gulf Strategic Funded Safe Sport Leaders Programme. The visit highlighted the strong collaboration between the UK Embassy, Kuwait International Olympic Committee, and Public Authority for Sport.
“I was struck by the level of coordination between government departments and their clear commitment to enhancing opportunities for women and girls in sport.”
Additionally, Lisa visited Dasman Bilingual School, which has been instrumental in creating an inclusive sporting environment.
United Arab Emirates (17 February 2025)
Lisa and Annamarie’s visit to the UAE included meetings in Ras Al-Khaimah and Fujairah. A highlight was meeting Princess Sheikha Amna at the Royal Palace, discussing the Future Women Leaders Programme.
“There is tremendous momentum for women’s sport in RAK, and it was a pleasure to connect the first Women’s Sport Council in the Emirate with IWG’s global network.”
They also explored Fujairah Martial Arts Club, a thriving hub that supports social and cultural integration by training boys and girls together from an early age.
Saudi Arabia (18 February 2025)
Returning to Saudi Arabia, IWG participated in the WiMENA conference in Riyadh, where Annamarie delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the global challenges in gender equality in sport. Lisa joined a panel on ‘Unlocking Sporting Potential,’ alongside representatives from Women in Football, FIA, and Al Qadsiah Football Club Women’s Team.
Bahrain (19 February 2025)
The final stop was Bahrain, where Lisa and Annamarie met with the Bahrain Olympic Committee, including His Highness Shaikh Isa Bin Ali Al Khalifa and Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Hussa bint Khalid Al Khalifa. Discussions focused on integrating regional organisations into the IWG network.
“It was an excellent opportunity to understand the progress being made and explore ways to foster greater collaboration.”
Looking Ahead
Lisa concluded:
العربية 
English (UK)