Arab entrepreneurs convene at UK's House of Lords to strengthen MENA ties
Held on July 22, the first-of-its-kind gathering brought together business leaders, diplomats, and policymakers to highlight the role of Arab entrepreneurship in advancing cross-border collaboration and innovation. It marked the second major initiative by the board this year, following the Arab Women Awards in April.
Opening the event, Lord Dominic Johnson underscored the importance of entrepreneurship in fostering inclusive and resilient economies. Other key speakers included Bandar Reda, secretary-general of the Arab British Chamber of Commerce, and Faisal Abbas, editor-in-chief of Arab News, both of whom spoke on the need to deepen UK–MENA engagement across strategic, economic and cultural spheres.
Wael Al-Zein, founder and CEO of the Arab Entrepreneurs Board, and Asma Ounnas, co-founder and chief strategy officer, led the evening's discussions, focusing on how Arab entrepreneurs can act as a bridge between markets and communities.
'This gathering was not just symbolic — it was strategic,' said Asma Ounnas. 'We are reshaping the narrative around Arab enterprise by putting collaboration, creativity, and global ambition at the heart of our work.'
A cultural exhibition featuring signed lithographs by King Charles III and Prince Khaled Al-Faisal — commemorating 25 years since their tribute to Saudi Arabia's Asir Mountains — was part of the program. Guests also received signed copies of Anecdotes of an Arab Anglophile, reflecting ongoing UK–Arab cultural engagement.
The guest list included representatives from NEOM, Binghatti, and BMG Financial Group. Also in attendance were executives from The Ritz London, Aston Martin, and Harrods, along with delegates from Hill House Interiors, Luxury Magazine, and Bicester Village. Diplomatic envoys, members of the House of Lords, and officials from the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the British Chambers of Commerce were also present.
'We were deeply inspired by the energy in the room — from startups to sovereign-level projects,' said Wael Al-Zein. 'This is just the beginning of a movement that connects ideas with capital, and vision with execution.'
The Arab Entrepreneurs Board announced upcoming initiatives, including further awards, summits, and strategic partnerships, along with the launch of a London-based communications division to enhance global visibility for Arab entrepreneurs.
The Arab Entrepreneurs Board is a membership-based platform supporting Arab entrepreneurs through global partnerships, policy engagement, and strategic networking. It focuses on promoting innovation and long-term economic development in the Arab world.
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