Arab Ministers Meet in Bahrain to Turn Family Businesses into Economic Powerhouses
TDT | Manama
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Bahrain welcomed ministers and officials from across the Arab world to discuss the role of productive families and entrepreneurship in advancing economic growth, as part of the 44th session of the Arab Ministers of Social Affairs Council.
Social Development Minister Osama Al Alawi opened the event by emphasising Bahrain’s long-standing dedication to collaboration. He said: ‘Bahrain is proud to bring together its Arab neighbours under the royal vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the leadership of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
‘Our efforts today build on national initiatives, such as the Arab Prize established by Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, which began as a local programme and has since grown into a regional project. This event reinforces our belief that productive families can create market-ready goods and contribute meaningfully to their economies.’
Al Alawi proposed that the event become a platform for sharing ideas and experiences, helping families move from traditional setups to entrepreneurial ventures. He extended his gratitude to international and regional organisations, singling out Dr Hashim Hussein, Head of the UNIDO Investment Promotion Office, for his partnership. Dr Hussein shared insights into the economic potential of family businesses, noting their prominent role worldwide. ‘Family enterprises account for half of the economy in Europe, 30 per cent in North America, and 16 per cent in the Asia-Pacific region,’ he explained. ‘In the Arab world, family businesses are estimated to generate $8 trillion annually, employing 24 million people. With the right framework, productive families can evolve into established businesses, lifting entire communities in the process.’
He also touched on the creative economy, where families use local resources to craft products suited to modern tastes. ‘Handicrafts and artisanal goods are excellent examples of how families can transform their surroundings into income-generating opportunities,’ Dr Hussein said.
Haifa Abu Ghazaleh, Assistant Secretary-General of the Arab League, applauded Bahrain’s leadership, as well as Egypt’s efforts under President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, for driving progress in family entrepreneurship. ‘These experiences provide a strong foundation for building a shared Arab vision. Partnerships with civil society, non-profits, and international agencies are key to supporting families on this journey,’ she remarked.
Dr Ismail Abdel Ghafar, President of the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport, also praised Bahrain for its work in expanding opportunities for young entrepreneurs. ‘This is more than just a local effort. Bahrain is helping turn family products into exports, backed by His Majesty King Hamad’s direct support. Such initiatives give young people a real chance to create businesses that go beyond survival and lead to longterm success,’ he told The Daily Tribune.
The event concluded with an exhibition showcasing the craftsmanship of Bahrain’s productive families. Organised by the Social Development Ministry, the display highlighted how local creativity can drive sustainable economic growth through handmade goods and cultural artefacts.
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