By The Arabian Leaders
Published on: 30-06-2025
Lina Khaled Almaeena: Pioneering Women’s Empowerment and Sports in Saudi Arabia
JEDDAH — Few figures have shaped Saudi Arabia’s journey toward a more inclusive and dynamic society quite like Lina Khaled Almaeena. As a trailblazing entrepreneur, sports advocate, and former member of the Shoura Council, Almaeena has dedicated her career to breaking barriers for women in sports, business, and public leadership—aligning her work with the Kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030.
Early Life and Education: Shaping a Leader
Raised in Jeddah, Almaeena’s passion for communication, leadership, and social advocacy emerged early. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Communications, with a minor in French, followed by a Master’s degree in Psychology, equipping her with valuable insights into human behavior, motivation, and societal change.
Her educational foundation enabled her to address cultural challenges and design impactful programs that empower Saudi women to thrive in public life.
Jeddah United: A New Era for Women’s Sports
In 2003, Almaeena co-founded Jeddah United Sports Company (JUSC)—Saudi Arabia’s first private sports company training both women and men in basketball, volleyball, and football.
At a time when public opportunities for women’s sports were nearly nonexistent, Jeddah United became a catalyst for change:
Empowering Women Athletes: Pioneering safe, professional environments for Saudi women to train and compete.
International Representation: Leading female sports teams in global tournaments, changing perceptions of Saudi women’s athletic talent.
Community Engagement: Hosting training camps, youth events, and tournaments to promote fitness, teamwork, and wellness.
JUSC’s impact paved the way for the normalization of women’s sports in Saudi Arabia, inspiring more initiatives and policies that integrate sports into everyday life.
Entrepreneurship and Business Leadership
Under Almaeena’s leadership, Jeddah United expanded into sports management, youth engagement, and sportswear—helping connect fitness with identity and empowerment. Her entrepreneurial success has made her a role model for Saudi women eager to enter traditionally male-dominated sectors.
By promoting sports as a lifestyle and business opportunity, Almaeena demonstrates how sports entrepreneurship can support economic growth and healthy communities.
A Seat at the Table: Shoura Council Impact
In 2016, Lina Khaled Almaeena was appointed to the Shoura Council, a pivotal step in Saudi Arabia’s drive for greater women’s representation in policymaking. During her tenure, she championed initiatives that focused on:
Women’s Workforce Participation: Advocating for policies that boost women’s roles in the economy and leadership.
Youth and Sports Development: Integrating sports into national education and community programs.
Public Health: Promoting sports and physical activity as key components of Saudi Arabia’s public health strategy.
Her time in the Shoura Council solidified her influence as a changemaker in governance and social development.
A Voice for Inclusion and Progress
Almaeena remains an active speaker, mentor, and advocate for social and economic progress. She contributes to national and international forums addressing:
Women’s leadership and empowerment.
The intersection of sports, health, and cultural change.
Strategies for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in line with Vision 2030.
Her efforts support a broader vision for a diverse and inclusive Saudi Arabia that nurtures future leaders across industries.
Recognition and Awards
Lina Khaled Almaeena’s contributions have earned her a place among the Most Powerful Women in the Middle East, along with accolades for entrepreneurship and social leadership. Her achievements inspire countless young women to break barriers and shape their own paths in sports, business, and public life.
Social Impact Beyond Business
Almaeena’s commitment extends beyond boardrooms and courts. Her climb to Everest Base Camp with other Saudi women to raise awareness for breast cancer reflects her dedication to using sports for social good and advocacy.
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Almaeena aims to expand her impact through:
Structured Sports in Schools: Building robust physical education programs to nurture lifelong fitness.
Leadership Mentorship: Equipping more Saudi women for leadership roles across sectors.
Global Collaborations: Partnering with international organizations to drive innovation in sports and entrepreneurship.
Conclusion: Inspiring the Next Generation
Lina Khaled Almaeena remains a beacon of what’s possible when vision, leadership, and action converge. From co-founding Jeddah United to shaping policy in the Shoura Council, her legacy fuels Saudi Arabia’s transformation toward greater inclusion and healthier, more active communities.
Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and purpose—and her impact will inspire generations of women to lead, compete, and create a brighter, more dynamic Saudi Arabia.
