ABU DHABI (The Thursday Times) — The UAE is undergoing a remarkable transformation, and at the forefront of this change are its female leaders who are shaping the future of the emirate across various sectors. From government and business to arts and STEM, these women are challenging traditional boundaries and emerging as pioneers in their fields, contributing significantly to Abu Dhabi’s Vision 2030.
Government and public policy
In the UAE, women’s participation in government and policy-making is deeply embedded in the nation’s vision. Abu Dhabi leads this charge, driven by influential figures such as Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, known as the “Mother of the Nation.” Her work through the General Women’s Union has empowered women in leadership roles, fostering gender equality. The UAE was the first Gulf country to launch a National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security, reaffirming its commitment to involving women in peace-building, conflict resolution, and policy-making. This progressive stance ensures that women have a voice in shaping the region’s governance and future.
Business and entrepreneurship
Women in Abu Dhabi’s business landscape are breaking barriers. Shamsa Al Falasi, as the first Emirati woman to lead Citibank UAE’s onshore operations, is a trailblazer in the finance sector. Rola Abu Manneh, CEO of Standard Chartered Bank UAE, has driven growth through innovative programmes, including initiatives supporting women in tech startups. These leaders are not only advancing corporate success but are also staunch advocates for gender balance, creating platforms for the next generation of female entrepreneurs to thrive. Their efforts highlight how business leadership in the UAE is increasingly female-driven.
Education and academia
Education has been a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi’s Vision 2030, with women playing a vital role in shaping the future of education and academia. Over 70% of university graduates in the UAE are women, reflecting the emphasis on higher education. Women are especially visible in STEM subjects, with government initiatives encouraging their participation in fields such as engineering, technology, and science. With Emirati women representing the majority in university classrooms, the UAE is becoming a global leader in gender parity in education, providing fertile ground for future female innovators.
Arts and culture
Abu Dhabi is not only a hub for business and politics but also a flourishing centre for arts and culture, where women are playing an essential role. Initiatives like the Remarkable Emirati Women Summit, supported by Sheikha Fatima, highlight female contributions to the cultural sector. From curating exhibitions to leading cultural dialogues, women are shaping the artistic landscape of the emirate, contributing to both local and international art scenes. Their work helps promote Abu Dhabi as a global cultural hub, blending tradition with modernity.
STEM and innovation
The STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) sector is one of the most dynamic fields in which women in Abu Dhabi are making significant strides. Despite the global underrepresentation of women in STEM, the UAE government has made a concerted effort to increase female participation. Initiatives like the Women in Tech programme, led by prominent figures such as Rola Abu Manneh, are closing the gender gap by providing opportunities for women to lead in innovation and tech sectors. These programmes are vital as Abu Dhabi positions itself as a hub for technological advancement, ensuring that women are not left behind in this crucial field.
Future prospects and Vision 2030
As part of Abu Dhabi’s Vision 2030, the empowerment of women is not just an initiative—it is a national priority. Organisations such as PureHealth are spearheading efforts to develop female talent, with the Emirati Development Centre preparing women for leadership roles in healthcare and other industries. Abu Dhabi’s Vision 2030 is deeply intertwined with gender equality, ensuring that women are critical players in the future of the economy, technology, and culture
