The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a hub for entrepreneurship and business, with a thriving and growing economy that supports innovation and growth. Female entrepreneurs in the UAE are breaking barriers and paving the way for others in the region.
Gone are the days when men dominated the business world. The existence of women has been growing in the entrepreneurial and business spheres for years. They hold senior management positions across a wide range of industries, from real estate to retail, and are helping to shape the future of business around the world.
In this article, we will introduce you to some of the most accomplished Emirati businesswomen, whose achievements and impact go far beyond the UAE.
list of some of the top female entrepreneurs in the UAE
Dr. Aisha Bin Bishr
Dr. Aisha Bin Bishr, Director General of Smart Dubai. Dr. Bin Bishr is a visionary leader who is driving the digital transformation of Dubai and the UAE. With over 20 years of knowledge in technology and innovation, she is responsible for shaping the future of the city through the implementation of smart initiatives and services.
Hana Al Rostamani
Hana Al Rostamani created a buzz in 2021 when she was hired as the first female CEO of First Abu Dhabi Bank, the largest lender in the UAE. With 22 years of experience in the banking and finance sector, she is a seasoned professional in her field.
Al Rostamani’s impressive career includes serving as an Independent Director at Emirates Integrated Telecommunication and Vice-Chairperson of the Emirates Institute for banking and financial services.
Presently, she is serving as the Group Chief Executive for First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) and newly led the acquisition offer for EFG Hermes by FAB. Her expertise and leadership have made her a prominent figure in the financial industry.
Maryam Almheiri
Maryam Almheiri is a prominent figure in the United Arab Emirates government and media industry. She holds several key positions, including Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Government Media Office, CEO of the Media Zone Authority for Abu Dhabi, and Vice-Chair of twofour54.
Before her present position, Almheiri served as the Minister of State for Food and Water Security. During her tenure, she made significant contributions towards promoting sustainable agricultural practices, addressing food and water scarcity, and supporting marine conservation efforts in the UAE.
Raja Easa Al Gurg
Raja Easa Al Gurg is a trailblazer in the business world. She is the first Emirati woman to sit on the Board of HSBC Bank Middle East Limited and is the Managing Director of the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group, the largest conglomerate in the Middle East that specializes in retail, construction, industrial, and joint ventures.
In addition to her executive role at the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group, Al Gurg also serves as the president of the Dubai Business Women Council and is a board member of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Her achievements and leadership positions make her a prominent figure for female entrepreneurs in the UAE.
Vandana Joshi
Vandana Joshi is a Dubai-based entrepreneur who has been leading a successful career as a business owner. She is the founder of several companies, including Start Any Business (SAB), Taskmaster, MIVA, and more. With her expertise in business and entrepreneurship, Vandana Joshi has made significant contributions to female entrepreneurs in the UAE business industry.
Her company Start Any Business (SAB) provides business setup solutions and has helped many entrepreneurs turn their business ideas into reality. Taskmaster, another of her ventures, offers business support services such as business bank account opening, business loans, trade finance services, and more. MIVA is a real estate agency that enables people to buy and sell their properties in Dubai. This platform has helped many people grow and expand their reach.
Farida abdullah Al Mazrouei
Farida abdullah Al Mazrouei – Director of Farida Al Mazrouei General Trading. Farida Al Mazrouei is a successful businesswoman who is known for her expertise in the fields of trading and marketing. She is the Director of Farida Al Mazrouei General Trading, a company that deals in a range of products and services, including food and beverage products, beauty and cosmetics, and household items.
Sara Al Madani
Sara Al Madani is the CEO of E-Net Systems. Al Madani is a tech entrepreneur who founded E-Net Systems, a leading provider of technology solutions and services in the UAE. She is a passionate advocate for women in technology and is committed to inspiring and empowering women to pursue careers in STEM fields.
Alia Al-Serkal
Al-Serkal is the founder of Al Serkal Group, a leading business group in the UAE that operates in several industries, including real estate, construction, and logistics. She is one of the female entrepreneurs in the UAE and is known for her innovative approach to business and her commitment to driving economic growth in the region.
Ohood Al Roumi
Ohood Al Roumi, a well-known figure in the United Arab Emirates, has served in various high-level government positions. Currently, she is the Minister of the State for Government Development and Future. Previously, Al Roumi made history as the first Emirati Minister of Happiness.
In 2015, Al Roumi was appointed as a member of the United Nations Global Entrepreneurship Council, making her the first Arab member to hold this prestigious position. Her contributions and leadership have been recognized by Fortune magazine, which listed her as one of the World’s 50 Greatest Leaders in 2017.
Maitha Al Dossari
Maitha Al Dossari is the head of Emaar Entertainment, a subsidiary of Emaar Properties. She oversees the operations of all the entertainment assets under the Emaar Properties umbrella, including Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, Sega Republic, Dubai Ice Rink, Reel Cinemas, and others.
Al Dossari brings extensive knowledge in logistics, procurement, and processes, having worked in various business functions, from optimization to auditing. Her expertise and leadership have made her a valuable asset to Emaar Entertainment.
These women are not only leading successful businesses, but they are also inspiring and empowering other women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. They are creating a substantial influence in their respective industries and are paving the way for future generations of female entrepreneurs in the UAE.
Also Read: Top 10 IT companies in UAE
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