The UAE has become a shining example of progress and inclusivity of women’s participation in business in the region. Women play a vital role in shaping the nation’s economy, excelling in leadership positions and driving entrepreneurialism.
Over the last decade, the UAE’s legal framework has evolved significantly to support women in business. Key milestones include legislation to support equal pay for men and women in the public sector (UAE Cabinet Decree 2018), which was expanded to include the private sector in 2020 and other initiatives at a government level, such as a directive issued in 2019 that mandates women occupy 50% of the seats in the UAE Federal National Council.
The government supports this shift by nurturing female entrepreneurship through funding programmes, mentorship opportunities, and business-friendly policies. These efforts align with the UAE’s broader vision to diversify its economy and empower Emirati and foreign national women as key contributors to its growth.
Councils and networks for women in business
To further encourage and support women in business, several women-oriented groups and councils have been established. Among the most notable is the Gender Balance Council, a federal entity established in 2015 which is responsible for developing and implementing the gender balance agenda in the UAE.
More social networking groups, such as the Dubai Business Women Council (DBWC), the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council and the Sharjah Business Women Council, work to create an enabling environment for professional women to network, collaborate, and enhance their skills. Such resources empower women to overcome traditional barriers and excel in competitive industries.
All these organisations play a crucial role in creating a sense of community, offering resources, and advocating for policy changes.
Gender diversity in leadership
The UAE actively promotes Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies, and Gender Equality is a pillar that forms part of the UAE’s social and economic reform initiatives.
A recent development issued in 2024 from the Ministry of Economy now mandates private joint-stock companies (PJSC) to ensure women are represented on their boards of directors. This decision is a key component of a strategy to enhance diversity in the corporate sector and increase women’s representation in leadership positions.
This legal requirement signals a significant shift within the UAE’s corporate landscape. It demonstrates the country’s recognition of the value of gender-balanced leadership and showcases the UAE’s commitment to gender diversity in leadership roles. It is likely to pave the way for additional policies aimed at further integrating women into corporate leadership.
The UAE’s efforts to promote women’s roles in business are generating results and solidifying women’s participation in its economy. These developments empower women but also contribute to the nation’s economic resilience and growth. As the country continues this progressive path, the future looks bright for women in business, with their contributions shaping a more inclusive UAE, which will only encourage women to want to set up businesses in the region. The UAE can leverage the full potential of its talent pool, irrespective of gender.
