The RiseUp Middle East initiative launched during the Money20/20 conference in Riyadh, bringing the global programme for women in financial services to the region for the first time.
Taking place from 14 to 16 September 2026 at the Riyadh Exhibition and Conference Centre in Malham, the event introduces a cohort of 30 senior women leaders. Participants represent companies such as Visa, Samsung Electronics, TikTok, Verto, Network Global, Sharaka Capital, and Safqah.
Expansion of the RiseUp Middle East Initiative
Established in 2018, the programme has supported over 600 women internationally. Programme data indicates that 85 percent of participants felt more prepared for promotions, while more than 70 percent advanced into senior roles. Additionally, 95 percent reported career progression through the network, and 99 percent recommended the initiative to peers.
“The Middle East is one of the most active innovation markets in the world, with momentum that is reshaping the global fintech sector. We are creating pathways for women who are building, scaling, and redefining the future of finance to accelerate their impact.”
Scarlett Sieber, Chief Strategy and Growth Officer at Money20/20
Curated Sessions and Regional Participation
The two-day agenda includes focused tracks addressing artificial intelligence transformation, payments, and leadership. Specific sessions examine women directing fintech developments and regional technological shifts.
Haifa Al Obaid, Senior Expert at the Saudi Industrial Development Fund, participates in the session exploring leadership paths in the region.
“Saudi women are receiving strong support from the government, with continued commitment from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which has helped expand leadership and career opportunities across sectors. The key challenge is organisational consistency.”
Haifa Al Obaid, Senior Expert at SIDF
Institutional Collaboration and Objectives
Organisers highlighted the importance of establishing lasting connections across the region’s financial sector.
“Launching RiseUp as part of this year’s edition gives us an important opportunity to recognise and strengthen the role of women who are already helping shape the future of finance across Saudi Arabia and the wider region.”
Annabelle Mander, Executive Vice President at Tahaluf
Long-Term Strategy Across the GCC
The debut of RiseUp Middle East marks the opening phase of a wider regional expansion across the Gulf Cooperation Council. As Riyadh develops as a meeting point for international finance, the programme aims to build ongoing industry partnerships.
