Businesswomen in the UAE are making significant strides, playing a vital role in driving economic growth while introducing innovative solutions that benefit both the business community and society as a whole.
With strong support from government policies and an encouraging societal environment, the number of women in business continues to rise, solidifying the UAE’s reputation as a global leader in empowering women and fostering entrepreneurship. Emirati women are not only contributing to the country’s economic success but are also leading the way in several industries, showcasing their talent and determination.
Growing Presence of Women in the Workforce
According to a recent report by the Emirates Businesswomen Council, women now make up 34.6% of the UAE’s workforce in 2024, an increase from 32.5% in 2023. This growing representation reflects the expanding role of women in the workforce and their significant contributions to various sectors.
The report also revealed that 18% of all entrepreneurs in the UAE are businesswomen, highlighting their growing influence in the business landscape. Notably, 77.6% of women-led businesses are managed by women under the age of 40, showing that younger generations are taking the lead and shaping the future of the UAE’s economy.
Leadership and Ownership
In addition to their growing presence in the workforce, UAE businesswomen are also taking on leadership roles in large numbers. The Emirates Businesswomen Council’s report found that 48.8% of women-led businesses are run by women who hold executive-director positions, demonstrating their leadership skills and ability to manage successful companies.
Moreover, 61.4% of these businesswomen own their businesses outright, reflecting their independence and commitment to building their own ventures. This strong sense of ownership has been a driving force behind the success of women-led businesses in the UAE.
A Surge in New Businesses
The entrepreneurial spirit among Emirati women has also led to a surge in new businesses. In the first half of 2024, more than 2,000 new businesses were established by Emirati women, accounting for 22% of all new business registrations in the UAE. This impressive figure shows that women are actively contributing to the nation’s economic growth by creating new opportunities and providing valuable products and services.
Innovation Driving Success
One of the key reasons behind the success of businesswomen in the UAE is their ability to innovate. Many women-led businesses are embracing new technologies and digital solutions to improve their operations and offer cutting-edge services. For example, a group of businesswomen recently launched a digital platform that uses AI-driven consulting and financing services tailored specifically for women-led projects. This platform helps female entrepreneurs access the resources they need to grow their businesses and succeed in a competitive market.
Additionally, UAE businesswomen have introduced a smart application designed to assist small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with managing their operations. The app offers solutions for digital marketing and HR management, making it easier for business owners to streamline their activities and focus on growth.
Pioneering Projects in Renewable Energy and Sustainability
UAE businesswomen are also leading the way in renewable energy and sustainability projects. These initiatives are not only important for the environment but also contribute to the UAE’s long-term economic success. One notable project involves the production of solar energy from rooftops, helping to reduce the country’s reliance on traditional energy sources and promote clean energy.
Another innovative venture is a startup specializing in remote healthcare services that uses virtual reality technology. This startup, backed by a AED200 million investment, aims to make healthcare more accessible by allowing patients to receive medical consultations and treatment remotely. This technology is particularly useful in rural areas where access to healthcare can be limited.
Empowering Local Artisans
In addition to their work in technology and sustainability, UAE businesswomen are also supporting the local economy by creating opportunities for artisans and small businesses. An e-commerce platform founded by Emirati women connects local artisans with international markets, giving them a global platform to sell their handcrafted products. This platform generated over AED 150 million in its first year of operation, demonstrating the strong demand for locally made goods and the success of women-led ventures in the global marketplace.
Government Support and Societal Encouragement
The success of Emirati businesswomen would not have been possible without the support of the UAE government, which has implemented various policies to promote women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship. These policies encourage women to pursue leadership roles, start their own businesses, and contribute to the economy.
Additionally, societal attitudes toward women in business have become more progressive, with both men and women recognizing the valuable contributions that female entrepreneurs make to the economy. This support has created a positive environment where women can thrive and succeed in the business world.
The Future of Women in Business in the UAE
The remarkable achievements of Emirati businesswomen highlight their growing influence in the UAE’s economy. As more women take on leadership roles, start their own businesses, and introduce innovative solutions, they are shaping the future of the country’s business landscape. With continued support from the government and society, the number of women in business is expected to grow even further in the coming years.
Businesswomen in the UAE are proving that gender is no barrier to success. By embracing innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurship, they are not only advancing their own careers but also making significant contributions to the UAE’s economic growth. Their success stories serve as an inspiration for future generations of women, both in the UAE and around the world.
Also read: Dubai Youth Council Reveals Youth Retreat to Encourage Innovation and Leadership.