Lubna Olayan

Pioneered women's economic empowerment in Saudi Arabia as a business leader.

Lubna Olayan (born 1960) is a Saudi Arabian business executive and advocate for women’s economic inclusion. As the first female board member of the Olayan Group, one of Saudi Arabia’s largest conglomerates, she shattered gender barriers in the kingdom’s male-dominated corporate sector. Her leadership in the 1990s and 2000s helped redefine corporate governance and women’s roles in business. Olayan’s advocacy extended beyond her company: she co-founded the Saudi Women’s Business Council in 2009, which promotes women’s entrepreneurship and access to finance. Under her guidance, the Olayan Group expanded into global markets, including the U.S., Europe, and Asia.

Her work aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals to diversify the economy and empower women. Olayan’s influence is highlighted in publications like Saudi Women in Business: Breaking Barriers and recognized by awards such as the U.S. Department of State’s Women of Courage honor. She remains a vocal proponent of education and leadership training for women, exemplified through initiatives like the Olayan Group’s Women’s Leadership Program. Her story underscores how corporate leadership can drive societal change in conservative societies.