Eman Alsuwailem: Elevating Saudi Hospitality with Gathern

In the bustling capital of Riyadh, Ar Riyad, Eman Alsuwailem is leading a remarkable transformation in Saudi Arabia’s tourism and accommodation landscape. As the founder and Head of Operations of Gathern Co, a hospitality platform launched in 2016, Eman has carved a path for travelers and locals alike to experience Saudi Arabia in an entirely new way. Through her leadership, Gathern has grown from a fledgling idea into a dynamic, customer-service-oriented platform backed by $6 million in funding from leading investors, including 500 Startups, Vision Ventures, and STV.

Crafting a Vision for Local Tourism

Eman’s journey with Gathern is rooted in her creative and entrepreneurial spirit. With a diploma in Graphic Design from Monash University and certifications in digital marketing from Google and Etadrees, Eman laid the foundation for her career in the design and marketing sectors. Her early work as a graphic designer and co-founder of Blue & Pink, her first business, allowed her to hone her skills in visual storytelling and customer engagement, which would later become essential to Gathern’s success.

In 2016, Eman identified a unique gap in Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector: the need for a platform that could connect travelers with authentic, locally hosted stays. Thus, Gathern was born. Eman envisioned a solution that would not only provide travelers with unique, comfortable accommodations but also empower local property owners to participate in the economy. Her background in digital marketing helped her craft a clear, compelling brand for Gathern, one that emphasized accessibility, cultural authenticity, and community.

Navigating Challenges in the Emerging Home-Sharing Market

Launching Gathern was no small feat. Eman faced regulatory hurdles, skepticism from local property owners, and the complexities of establishing a trusted digital platform in a market that was just beginning to embrace home-sharing. Saudi Arabia was still warming up to the concept of short-term rentals, and Eman knew that building trust would be key to success.

By emphasizing clear operational standards and excellent customer service, Eman gained the confidence of both hosts and guests. Her dedication to creating a seamless, secure experience for all users has made Gathern a respected name in the industry, bridging the gap between traditional hospitality and modern tourism.

Scaling Gathern Through Strategic Partnerships and Significant Funding

As Gathern began to grow, Eman recognized the need for additional resources and strategic guidance to take the platform to new heights. With a team of 11-50 employees, she spearheaded three funding rounds, successfully securing $6 million to support Gathern’s expansion. Investors like 500 Startups, Vision Ventures, STV, Misk 500 MENA Accelerator, and Inspire Ventures saw the potential in Gathern’s vision, providing not only financial backing but also valuable industry connections that accelerated its reach.

Through these strategic partnerships, Eman positioned Gathern as a platform for travelers seeking authentic experiences in Saudi Arabia. The site now offers a range of accommodations—from cozy apartments to grand villas—that provide visitors with a window into local life and culture. Under Eman’s leadership, Gathern is creating opportunities for Saudi property owners to generate income while fostering a sense of community and belonging for travelers.

Leadership Through Adaptability and a Customer-Centric Approach

Eman’s approach to leadership is one of adaptability and responsiveness to customer needs. Her background in marketing and graphic design allows her to maintain Gathern’s brand integrity while continuously improving the user experience. Whether addressing regulatory shifts, optimizing operations, or incorporating customer feedback, Eman’s dedication to quality and her customer-first mindset have fueled Gathern’s growth and earned her a reputation as a pioneer in Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector.

Gathern’s Legacy: A Platform for Connection and Economic Empowerment

Today, Gathern represents far more than just a booking platform. Under Eman Alsuwailem’s leadership, it has become a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s tourism renaissance, offering a gateway to local culture and a model for how tourism can drive economic inclusion. By providing property owners a reliable source of income and connecting travelers with unique stays, Gathern empowers both its hosts and its guests.

Eman’s journey is an inspiring example of how resilience, creativity, and vision can transform a simple idea into a national movement. Her story invites aspiring founders to pursue ventures that not only succeed financially but also contribute meaningfully to their communities. Through Gathern, Eman is leaving a lasting impact, showing that entrepreneurship in Saudi Arabia can indeed build bridges, foster empowerment, and celebrate local heritage.