New App ‘Nawat’ to Boost Menopause Support Across Arab World

A UAE-based app, Nawat, is set to provide women across the Arab world, including those in conflict zones, with access to menopause-related information and healthcare support. Originally launched as a website in 2024, the platform will expand into an app by the end of March 2025, offering a judgment-free space for women's health discussions.

Nawat provides educational programs in English and Arabic covering menstruation, menopause and sexuality. The app offers mental health and psychological support, including free 30-minute consultations, and ensures anonymity for users seeking support. It features specialists from across the Arab region who provide culturally sensitive guidance.

The initiative, led by public health expert and sex educator Noor Jaber, has been tested with 100 women across three countries in collaboration with Oxfam. Oxfam is a global nonprofit organisation focused on alleviating poverty and promoting social justice. Founded in 1942, it operates in over 90 countries, providing humanitarian aid, advocating for economic justice, and supporting initiatives related to gender equality, climate action, and access to essential services. Women in war-affected areas receive subsidised services through local organisations.

Nawat was among six startups competing in the Innovate 4 Health challenge, organised by medical device company Abbott and startup accelerator Plug and Play. The challenge aims to address menopause, vertigo, and health misinformation through technology.