Pioneering women in business inspire IDCK delegation at Souk Al-Manakh
Certified brokers in the Kuwaiti real estate industry, Mrs. Sabeekah Al-Bahar and Mrs. Jihan Marafi shared their inspiring journeys with the IDCK delegation, highlighting their achievements in a male-dominated field.
• Both Mrs. Jihan Marafi and Mrs. Sabeekah Al-Bahar described the nature of their work and the challenges they encounter in their line of work, especially since the real estate industry is a male-dominated field.
To highlight the experiences of pioneering businesswomen and support the empowerment of Kuwaiti women, Mrs. Sabeeka Al-Bahr and Mrs. Jihan Marafi welcomed a delegation from the International Diplomatic Club – Kuwait (IDCK), led by Mrs. Ghada Shawky, wife of the Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt and president of the IDCK Executive Board, on October 22 in Souk Al Manakh.
Mrs. Sabeekah Al-Bahar and Mrs. Jihan Marafi are two certified brokers in the Kuwaiti real estate industry, and the IDCK delegation was honored to have the chance to see them showcase their journey of growth and achievement as women in a predominantly male field.
The group comprised IDCK members, including female ambassadors and the wives of ambassadors. They also extended an invitation to prominent Kuwaiti women in the political sphere to join them. The delegation was additionally honored by the presence of former Minister of Social Affairs Dr. Ghadeer Aseri and Mrs. Alia Al-Khaled, a former Kuwaiti MP.
The group was proud to witness the power of women in Kuwait, who can work in various sectors, including real estate.
Both Mrs. Marafi and Mrs. Al-Bahar described the nature of their work and the challenges they encounter in their line of work, especially since it is a male-dominated field.
Located in the heart of Kuwait City, Souk Al-Manakh is a symbol of Kuwait’s historical financial development and was once the third-largest stock exchange in the world.
By 1978, Souk Al-Manakh experienced a significant trading surge, surpassing even the London markets with all their foreign listings combined, making it one of the few avenues for investment. However, in 1982, the stock market crashed, leading to the closure of Souk Al-Manakh, which later reopened as a hub for brokers in the real estate sector.
Following the opening ceremony and the tour of Souk Al-Manakh, the IDCK members had the opportunity to visit Souk Al-Mubarakiya, Kuwait’s oldest and most famous market. The ladies, accompanied by three guides, experienced the lively atmosphere that has flourished for over 200 years.
The souk is a true gem for local goods, including handicrafts, vintage items, spices, textiles, and other commodities. It is also a gastronomic haven, where people enjoy delicious Kuwaiti dishes. To complete their perfect Kuwaiti day, the members were generously invited to lunch at Chocolate Ice Café in Souk Al-Mubarakiya.
