As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, it is important to reflect on the achievements of women in the payments industry while also acknowledging the work that remains to be done. Women in the MENA region are breaking barriers, shattering glass ceilings, and reshaping the payments landscape, creating a more inclusive and diverse future for all.
With the continued support of initiatives that promote female entrepreneurship, mentorship, and leadership development, women in the MENA region will continue to make strides in the payments industry, leading the charge towards innovation, financial inclusion, and economic empowerment. The future is bright, and it is powered by women. Let’s see how.
A New Wave of Female Leaders in Payments
For years, the payment sector has been predominantly male-dominated, with leadership roles and innovation largely attributed to men. However, the past decade has witnessed a dramatic shift as women entrepreneurs across the Levant and GCC region are emerging as pivotal players in the fintech space. These women are not just participating—they are leading, innovating, and pioneering change in ways that are reshaping the payment ecosystem.
In 2025-2026, more women are establishing themselves as founders, investors, CEOs, and tech experts, playing key roles in the development of new digital payment solutions. Whether it’s through launching fintech startups, AI, and digital wallets, women in the region are revolutionizing how payments are made, ensuring that these innovations are more secure, efficient, and inclusive.
Innovation in Payment Solutions: Women Leading the Charge
One of the most notable aspects of women’s increasing role in the payments sector is their focus on user-centric innovation. Women-led startups and established companies are introducing solutions that prioritize the user experience, making digital payments accessible to people of all backgrounds. From creating seamless and secure payment gateways to launching social commerce platforms that connect sellers with buyers on platforms like Instagram shopping, Facebook and Pinterest women entrepreneurs are paving the way for a more connected and globalized economy.
PayTabs, a prominent name in the payment gateway industry, is empowering women entrepreneurs by providing end-to-end solutions that allow businesses to accept payments in multiple currencies, giving them access to global markets. The ability to do this through a single API is a game-changer for women, particularly those running micro-businesses or home-based enterprises.
Championing Female Entrepreneurs: PayTabs’ Role in Building an Inclusive Future
PayTabs has been a long-time advocate for women’s empowerment in the fintech space, actively working to bridge the gender gap that has historically existed in this sector. With its acquisition of Paymes, the largest social commerce platform in Turkey, PayTabs has opened new doors for female entrepreneurs across the Levant and GCC region. The platform allows women to create their own customized online stores, enabling them to sell products directly to consumers on social media platforms.
This integration is particularly beneficial for women in the Levant and North Africa, many of whom operate micro-businesses that rely on social commerce. These women now have the tools to grow their businesses, reach global audiences, and receive instant payments, all without the need for expensive infrastructure or technical know-how.
PayTabs’ commitment to supporting female entrepreneurs is also reflected in its workforce, where a significant number of women hold leadership roles in technology, operations, and sales. This inclusive work environment is part of PayTabs’ broader goal to create a positive social impact by empowering women to lead and drive change.
A Transformative Impact on Gender Equality and Economic Growth
The rise of women in the payments sector goes hand-in-hand with a broader shift towards gender equality in the Levant and GCC region. Over the past few years, the gender gap in entrepreneurship has steadily narrowed. For example, in the UAE, women now make up 44% of the workforce, and 7.6% of all entrepreneurs in the country are women, as compared to 11.8% of men founders of businesses. This is a significant increase from previous years.
Looking Ahead: A Future of Empowerment and Innovation
This International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate the trailblazing women in the payments industry in the MENA region. Their leadership, innovation, and resilience are transforming the financial landscape and paving the way for future generations of female entrepreneurs. Through collaboration, empowerment, and access to technology, women in the payments sector are shaping a future where there are no limits to what they can achieve.
At PayTabs, we remain committed to supporting women in their entrepreneurial journeys, providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed and continue contributing to the global economy. Together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive payments ecosystem—one led by women who are shaping the future of fintech.
