RIYADH: The Saudi-British Women’s Network hosted a Women’s Majlis on Sunday in Riyadh, attended by UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, to empower women and foster dialogue between the two nations.
Held at the UK Embassy to coincide with Cooper’s visit, it was the first majlis of the network, and was co-chaired by Lama Alhamawi, who is head of the diplomatic section at Arab News.
“Facilitated by the Saudi-British Women’s Network, the Women’s Majlis elevates women’s voices, creating opportunities for collaboration and cooperation and furthering Saudi-UK ties through mentorship and community on a women’s level,” said Alhamawi in a statement.
“It was truly an honor to welcome the UK’s Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, to be a part of the Women’s Majlis.
“The Saudi-British Women’s Network is not only strengthening diplomatic ties between our two nations but also actively supporting women by creating opportunities for shared dialogue and collaboration across all sectors, from education to investment,” she added.
The majlis brought together leading women who are shaping change and building cross-border connections between and the UK.
The participants included female pioneers from and the UK, spanning law, government, business and media.
The majlis also served to highlight the progress the Kingdom has made in elevating women into leadership positions under Vision 2030, offering Cooper insight into ’s evolving priorities.
“Gatherings such as the Women’s Majlis truly break barriers, bringing women together to share our stories and create connections,” Alhamawi said.
The Saudi-British Women’s Network was formally established on the sidelines of the 9th Future Investment Initiative.
Alhamawi, and the network’s UK chairwoman, Rebecca Cousins, signed a memorandum of understanding in the presence of founder Atifa Shah and Rachel Reeves, chancellor of the exchequer.
“The majlis embodies what the Saudi-British Women’s Network is all about, creating a space where women can come together, share personal perspectives, and support growth,” Shah said.
“Holding our first majlis with the foreign secretary’s visit was a powerful moment that showed the value of connection and collaboration.
“The network is about building bridges between women in both countries and celebrating the role we all play in shaping a more inclusive future,” she said.
Dr. Alice Burt, deputy British ambassador, added that she was “delighted” that the first majlis was held at the British Embassy and hosted by the foreign secretary.
“It’s inspiring to see the network creating intimate spaces where Saudi and British women can connect, exchange ideas, and build lasting friendships.
“This kind of dialogue reflects the depth of friendship between our two countries and the shared commitment to supporting women’s leadership and collaboration,” she added.
The network was founded by Shah for leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals to share knowledge, foster mentorship and build meaningful partnerships.
“Through our majlis’, leadership forums and sector-specific initiatives, we at the SBWN aim to create opportunities for women to grow, collaborate and contribute to the evolving relationship between and the UK,” Alhamawi added.
