Abu Dhabi’s SME sector is seeing a significant increase in the number of commercial licenses issued to Emirati women, with a 23% rise in the first half of 2024 compared to last year. In an exclusive interview, Mouza Obaid Al Nasri, Executive Director of the SME Sector, discusses the growing impact of Emirati women entrepreneurs, the targeted initiatives driving their success and their role in Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification.
Q1: What is the significance of Emirati Women’s Day?
Emirati Women’s Day celebrates women’s vital role in society, culture and economy. It highlights the significant contributions of Emirati women to various sectors. Following the words of the late Sheikh Zayed, the Founding Father of the UAE, “The endeavours undertaken by women in the UAE are important and honourable endeavours that are worthy of esteem”. I constantly relate to his wise words, especially regarding Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), a fundamental pillar of Abu Dhabi’s economic growth and diversification. This day serves as a reminder of the progress and achievements of Emirati women entrepreneurs who drive innovation and economic development.
Q2: How have Emirati women impacted the SME sector in Abu Dhabi?
Emirati women have significantly enriched the SME sector in Abu Dhabi. In 2021 alone, 25,000 Emirati women entrepreneurs held 50,000 trade licences, showcasing their substantial role in the economic landscape. They operate diverse businesses, from technology startups to traditional crafts, which are essential for driving economic growth and diversification and enhancing global competitiveness.
Furthermore, ADDED allocates much effort to support Emirati women and enhance their role within the emirate’s economic ecosystem. This is reflected in the continuous increase in the number of commercial licenses issued to Emirati women in Abu Dhabi, reaching 27,331 licenses in the first half of 2024, an increase of 23% compared to 2023.
Q3: What specific actions were taken to support Emirati women entrepreneurs in Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi has developed a robust support system to foster an environment conducive to Emirati women’s entrepreneurial success. The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) implements various initiatives, such as the National Strategy for the Empowerment of Women in the UAE 2023-2031, introduced by the Mother of the Nation, Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak. This strategy focuses on developing entrepreneurial skills and nurturing business ambitions among young Emirati women, homemakers and employees. In collaboration with the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, the SWAN programme provides entrepreneurial training and resources for home-based business owners.
Additionally, we launched the Mubdia’h licence for Emirati women interested in working in creative industries. This specialised license allows them to practice their businesses without the need for a headquarters and in more than 50 economic activities while facilitating the procedures for obtaining the license.
Q4: What are the targeted initiatives designed by ADDED to help and empower Emirati businesswomen?
Targeted initiatives, such as the SWAN programme, offer training and support to home-based Emirati women entrepreneurs. ADDED’s export strategy also plays a crucial role in increasing Abu Dhabi’s non-oil exports, thus providing Emirati entrepreneurs access to regional and international markets. These initiatives are designed to empower women with the necessary tools, knowledge and networks to scale their businesses and contribute to Abu Dhabi’s broader economic vision.
Q5: How does Abu Dhabi’s SME ecosystem contribute to the success of Emirati women entrepreneurs?
Abu Dhabi is home to one of the world’s best startup ecosystems. Recently, the emirate was named the fastest-growing emerging startup ecosystem in the MENA region. The SME ecosystem is designed to create an ideal business destination supporting Emirati women entrepreneurs’ growth. Investments in infrastructure, development, and market access enhance the business environment, providing women with resources, networks, and opportunities. This ecosystem not only supports individual business objectives but also drives the overall economic progress of Abu Dhabi by ensuring an inclusive and supportive environment for all entrepreneurs.
Q6: What role do Emirati women play in Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification efforts?
Emirati women are at the forefront of Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification efforts. Their innovation, resilience and leadership are driving forces behind the success of the SME sector. By fostering diverse businesses and penetrating new markets, Emirati women entrepreneurs contribute to the non-oil sectors and achieve a sustainable and diversified economy.
Q7: How does ADDED’s export strategy benefit Emirati women entrepreneurs?
ADDED’s export strategy significantly increases Abu Dhabi’s non-oil exports, which benefits Emirati women entrepreneurs by facilitating access to regional and international markets. This strategy supports business diversification and scaling, creating new opportunities for women to expand their businesses globally. By strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position in the global market, this strategy simultaneously creates an environment where Emirati women can thrive and contribute to the economic landscape.
Q8: In what ways does fostering an inclusive business environment support the broader economic progress of Abu Dhabi?
Fostering an inclusive business environment ensures that the SME hub in Abu Dhabi provides unique opportunities for all entrepreneurs, including Emirati women. We support women’s business objectives and drive broader economic progress by empowering them with access to resources, networks and opportunities. An inclusive environment encourages innovation and diversity, which are critical for sustained economic growth and competitiveness.
Q9: What message would you like to convey to young Emirati women aspiring to become entrepreneurs?
To young Emirati women aspiring to become entrepreneurs, embrace your entrepreneurial spirit and leverage the robust support system. Your innovation, resilience and leadership are invaluable to Abu Dhabi’s economic growth and diversification. Believe in your capabilities, seek out resources and networks, and know that your contributions will be essential in shaping the future of our emirate and its economy.
