The Rise of Women's Sports in the Arab World: Progress and Challenges

(MENAFN)

Women’s sports are getting bigger in the Arab world. More women are playing and winning, even at the Olympics. It wasn’t easy. It took time, new rules, and brave women who kept trying. This also affected the betting scene, and many fans enjoyed the pre-match betting experience before the game started.

A New Era of Representation

For many years, women from the Arab world did not participate in big sports events. Countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Egypt had strict rules. But now, things are changing and getting better. These countries are letting women play sports that were once forbidden. More and more girls are getting into sports, and new teams are forming.

The Role of Policy and Government

Girls started playing sports in schools. In 2020, the first women’s football league began. The UAE also formed a group to plan women’s sports events. Change took time, but it is happening. More women are now coaches, referees, and trainers. They don’t just play, they help lead.

Social Media’s Influence

Instagram and TikTok are helping women in sports get noticed. Arab women athletes use apps to show their workouts, wins, and daily life. This helps everyone see that women should be in sports too.

Young girls watch these videos and feel inspired. They see someone like them being strong and active. Sometimes, one short post can change how a girl sees her future.

The Religious and Cultural Balance

Many female athletes want to follow their faith while playing sports. They wear modest clothes or hijabs when they play. These clothes don’t stop them. They make them feel proud.

Now, groups like FIBA and FIFA let players wear headscarves during games. This small rule change helped many Muslim women join sports without giving up their beliefs.

Barriers That Still Remain

Progress doesn’t mean everything is perfect. There are still problems. In some places, people tell girls not to play sports. Women’s teams usually get less money than men’s teams. Some families also worry about travel, being in public, or physical activity. Few women run sports programs. Without them, change is slow.

How Schools and Communities Can Help

Change often begins in schools. When girls play sports from a young age, they see it as normal. Gym class, school teams, and women coaches help girls a lot. Community centers and sports clubs are safe places for girls. They can play, learn, make friends, and stay healthy—even if they don’t become athletes. When parents and teachers help, girls feel strong and believe their dreams matter.

Media Coverage: Still Catching Up

Turn on the TV or scroll through sports news, and you’ll still find far more coverage of male athletes. This lack of visibility keeps female sports in the shadows. But independent media outlets and digital publications are starting to change that. They highlight stories mainstream channels ignore. The more people see women’s sports, the more money, fans, and chances they get. Media matters. It can shape public opinion and make women athletes into national icons.

Economic Opportunities and Sponsorships

ChatGPT said: Sponsorship helps a lot. It lets athletes train full-time, use better places, and make sports their job. More brands are helping female athletes now—not just to make money, but to make a difference.

Big companies like Nike and Adidas, and local ones too, support Arab women in sports. Some even make clothes that fit their culture. When businesses get involved, women’s sports can grow and last.

It’s not just about playing games anymore. It’s about jobs, strength, and fairness.

What the Future Holds

The future looks hopeful, but it depends on continued support. Progress needs to be protected and expanded. Leaders, schools, brands, and media all need to help.

Young girls in the Arab world are paying attention. Every new team formed, every stadium opened, every medal won—they notice. And more than ever, they’re ready to be next.

MENAFN05072025008181017471ID1109762796