Roota Mittal, founder of LearnWithRoota.com and author of ‘Wealthy Moves,’ highlights the dynamic female entrepreneurship in the UAE, noting its inspiring energy alongside persistent challenges in funding and visibility. She emphasizes the need for targeted government support and the importance of self-reliance, drawing inspiration from figures like Sara Blakely and Taylor Swift.
What are the most significant changes you’ve observed in the Middle Eastern entrepreneurial ecosystem for women in recent years?
In my short time here in the UAE, I’ve witnessed firsthand the remarkable energy and drive of women entrepreneurs. The country’s open and accepting culture provides a powerful platform for women to thrive and build successful businesses, a significant shift I’ve observed in the Middle Eastern ecosystem. The energy is inspiring. The inspiring energy is undeniable.
What are the most persistent challenges that women entrepreneurs in the Middle East still face, particularly regarding access to funding and networking opportunities?
While progress is being made, the limited representation of women at key events, like the recent Dubai conference I attended, remains a significant hurdle. Seeing only one woman speaker made it clear that more platforms are needed to amplify women’s entrepreneurial stories. This lack of visibility restricts access to crucial networking and funding connections.
How do you perceive the role of government initiatives and private sector support in fostering women’s entrepreneurship in your country or region?
While I acknowledge the government’s strong support for entrepreneurship overall, I believe there’s a missed opportunity to specifically elevate women entrepreneurs. The current initiatives, though beneficial, lack the targeted focus needed to truly highlight and advance women’s contributions in this space.
Who are the women who have most inspired you on your entrepreneurial journey, and what lessons have you learned from them?
Sara Blakely, the founder of Spanx, has been a constant source of inspiration, particularly her resilience and innovative spirit. Additionally, Taylor Swift’s dedication to her community and the sheer scale and impact of her Eras tour have taught me the power of building a strong connection with your audience and the importance of unwavering dedication.
How do you believe we can best celebrate and amplify the achievements of women entrepreneurs in the Middle East, not just on International Women’s Day, but throughout the year?
For me, celebrating women is a daily commitment, not just a yearly event. To truly amplify their achievements in the Middle East, we need to foster a culture of self-reliance. Empowering more women to start their own businesses is, in my view, the most impactful way to achieve this throughout the year.
What advice would you give to young women in the Middle East who aspire to start their own businesses, especially in light of the evolving socio-economic landscape?
My strongest advice is to take initiative and build your own path. Don’t wait for anyone’s approval. Leverage the resources at your fingertips—like a laptop and internet, as I detail in my book ‘Wealthy Moves‘—to create your own financial independence. The time is now for women in the Middle East to claim their economic power.
