Women at the helm: The story of micro-businesses
Published: 04:06 PM,Jun 19,2025 | EDITED : 08:06 PM,Jun 19,2025
Women navigate complex terrain through financial hurdles and cultural expectations that shape their aspirations and ongoing quest for independence.
In the heart of Muscat, the entrepreneurial landscape is being reshaped by a quiet yet powerful movement led by women in the micro-business sector. Behind every modest storefront or home establishment is a story of ambition, perseverance, resilience, and negotiation with structural and personal challenges. These women navigate complex terrain through financial hurdles and cultural expectations that shape their aspirations and ongoing quest for independence.
A closer look at their journeys reveals a beautiful and rich mix of motivations and constraints, where personal motivation meets institutional realities — and where inspiration often emerges from the most unexpected places. Face-to-face interviews with twenty women who own micro-businesses in diverse economic sectors revealed these aspirations behind their economic contribution.
One significant factor pertains to desire and self-development, as women channel their skills and personal interests into ventures that align with their intrinsic motivations. Whether in fashion design, legal consultancy, or education, many perceive their businesses to be more than purely a financial endeavor; they are fundamental expressions of identity and determination. The ability to create something useful and have a positive impact on their communities acts as a source of inspiration. For countless other women entrepreneurs, financial need plays a decisive role. Economic challenges caused by unemployment, poor salaries, or family responsibilities typically force women to become entrepreneurs as a way to achieve financial independence. In many cases, their businesses are essential sources of income, helping them overcome personal and professional challenges.
Another key driver is their desire for autonomy and alignment with personal values. Many women choose to be entrepreneurs because they want control over their careers and to establish businesses that adhere to their ethical and social beliefs. Whether it is assisting others through legal work or promoting community-driven initiatives, these ventures allow them to maintain their principles while earning a sustainable living.
It is worth noting that exposure to successful women entrepreneurs is a significant factor. Women who have witnessed successful entrepreneurs in their personal circles or have been exposed to business environments are frequently determined to follow similar paths. Equally, observing others succeed increases the confidence of women entrepreneurs to explore viable business opportunities.
Regardless of these motivating factors, women running micro- businesses encounter sector-specific challenges. Limited access to funding, bureaucratic hurdles, and societal expectations often add layers of complexity to their journey. Moreover, dealing with these obstacles requires resilience, adaptability and a strong support network. Currently, there are around 48,692 SMEs owned by women, including both micro and larger enterprises, operating in Oman, illustrating the increasing influence of female entrepreneurs throughout the country. Understanding these reasons and challenges provides beneficial information on the dynamic and changing role of women in Muscat's micro- business sector. Their entrepreneurial activities not only make a positive contribution to the economy, but also demonstrate their determination to establish worthwhile, independent careers.
A closer look at their journeys reveals a beautiful and rich mix of motivations and constraints, where personal motivation meets institutional realities — and where inspiration often emerges from the most unexpected places. Face-to-face interviews with twenty women who own micro-businesses in diverse economic sectors revealed these aspirations behind their economic contribution.
One significant factor pertains to desire and self-development, as women channel their skills and personal interests into ventures that align with their intrinsic motivations. Whether in fashion design, legal consultancy, or education, many perceive their businesses to be more than purely a financial endeavor; they are fundamental expressions of identity and determination. The ability to create something useful and have a positive impact on their communities acts as a source of inspiration. For countless other women entrepreneurs, financial need plays a decisive role. Economic challenges caused by unemployment, poor salaries, or family responsibilities typically force women to become entrepreneurs as a way to achieve financial independence. In many cases, their businesses are essential sources of income, helping them overcome personal and professional challenges.
Another key driver is their desire for autonomy and alignment with personal values. Many women choose to be entrepreneurs because they want control over their careers and to establish businesses that adhere to their ethical and social beliefs. Whether it is assisting others through legal work or promoting community-driven initiatives, these ventures allow them to maintain their principles while earning a sustainable living.
It is worth noting that exposure to successful women entrepreneurs is a significant factor. Women who have witnessed successful entrepreneurs in their personal circles or have been exposed to business environments are frequently determined to follow similar paths. Equally, observing others succeed increases the confidence of women entrepreneurs to explore viable business opportunities.
Regardless of these motivating factors, women running micro- businesses encounter sector-specific challenges. Limited access to funding, bureaucratic hurdles, and societal expectations often add layers of complexity to their journey. Moreover, dealing with these obstacles requires resilience, adaptability and a strong support network. Currently, there are around 48,692 SMEs owned by women, including both micro and larger enterprises, operating in Oman, illustrating the increasing influence of female entrepreneurs throughout the country. Understanding these reasons and challenges provides beneficial information on the dynamic and changing role of women in Muscat's micro- business sector. Their entrepreneurial activities not only make a positive contribution to the economy, but also demonstrate their determination to establish worthwhile, independent careers.