Leadership lessons: Emirati female execs share their insights

In a nation committed to progress and inclusivity, Emirati women lead transformative changes across various sectors, from finance and technology to healthcare, maritime, and more.

As the UAE continues to champion gender equality and provide robust opportunities, these remarkable women are breaking barriers and setting new standards of excellence.

On the occasion of Emirati Women’s Day, we share inspiring insights of strong female leaders who are shaping the future of their industries and empowering the next generation to follow in their footsteps.

Dr Saeeda Jaffar, SVP and group country manager, GCC, Visa

Emirati women are making a significant impact in finance and technology, with increasing opportunities in these fields.

The financial services sector, in particular, has been at the forefront of gender inclusivity, with leaders like Shamsa Al-Falasi, CEO of Citibank UAE Onshore, and Hana Al Rostamani, Group CEO at First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), setting new leadership standards.

The UAE’s commitment to gender inclusivity, exemplified by mandated female representation on corporate boards, has created an environment where talent thrives regardless of gender. This focus, coupled with strong educational opportunities and supportive policies, has enabled Emirati women to achieve significant milestones in the industry.

To young and ambitious Emirati women, my advice is to harness your potential and commit wholeheartedly to your goals. Utilise skill development and mentorship programmes, such as Visa’s She’s Next initiative, or the initiatives led by the Gender Balance Council UAE and the Dubai Women’s Business Council (DWBC), to get the support and knowledge needed to achieve your ambitions.

As Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Mother of the Nation, wisely stated, “Emirati women have proven day after day that nothing is impossible with hard work, diligence, creativity, and hope for a prosperous future.” Success is a collective effort; surround yourself with mentors and supporters who will guide, challenge, and help you grow.

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Abeer AlShaali, deputy MD, Gulf Craft

Emirati women are making their mark in the maritime sector, bringing determination and a drive to succeed in what has traditionally been a male-dominated industry. At Gulf Craft, we take pride in fostering an inclusive environment where women can thrive.

As more female engineers and professionals join our ranks, Emirati families are increasingly recognising the opportunities in this sector and supporting their daughters’ ambitions.

My advice to young Emirati women entering this field is to earn their place at the table through dedication and perseverance. Demonstrate your capabilities and embrace change, even in traditionally male-dominated spaces.

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Mariam Al Musharrekh, ED – Human Resources at Miral

Emirati women are rapidly becoming key figures in the leisure, entertainment, and travel sector. At Miral, we witness their impact daily, from spearheading innovative guest experiences at Yas Island to managing complex operations and driving strategic marketing initiatives.

Their dedication, creativity, and passion are transforming the landscape in Abu Dhabi and across the UAE.

To aspiring Emirati women, I offer these guiding principles:

– Embrace your heritage: Use your unique cultural perspective to bring fresh ideas and authenticity to your work.

– Never stop learning: Seek new knowledge, embrace technology, and be adaptable.

– Collaborate with others: Connect with mentors and peers who inspire you, support each other, and celebrate successes together.

– Be bold and take risks: Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and pursue opportunities that challenge and excite you.

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Noor Abbasi, Manager, Consulting, PwC Middle East

The professional services industry is witnessing an increasing number of Emirati women pursuing careers in auditing, consulting, and deals, drawn by the opportunities for professional development and exposure to diverse industries across the region.

Many of these women have transitioned from consulting roles to leadership positions in top government entities, where their expertise has enabled them to excel as leaders and entrepreneurs.

My advice to young Emirati women is to seek out female role models in your career. Establishing relationships with mentors can provide valuable insights, guidance, and encouragement, helping you navigate challenges and succeed.

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Abir Araki, manager – Emiratisation and Nationalisation, Cigna Healthcare MEA

Emirati Women’s Day is a vibrant celebration of the remarkable accomplishments and contributions of Emirati women, made possible by the UAE’s visionary leadership.

At Cigna Healthcare, Emirati women are not just leaders but changemakers, powering transformative solutions and setting new standards for excellence in the industry.

Our organisation is fortunate to have such talented Emirati women at its helm, and we are proud of their hard work, diligence, and pioneering spirit. We are honoured to support their journey and celebrate their continued success as they help shape a brighter future for healthcare in the UAE.

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Maitha Shuaib, ED, Corporate Communications, Ducab Group

Emirati women are more than just role models; they are the driving force behind our nation’s extraordinary journey. Their notable accomplishments in STEM, where they constitute an impressive 56 per cent of public university graduates, highlight just a fraction of their immense impact.

At Ducab, we are proud to have 80 per cent of our female management team spearheading change within our organisation. Their leadership exemplifies the boundless potential of Emirati women, who consistently surpass expectations in governance and innovation.

Let us celebrate their outstanding achievements and appreciate their tireless dedication to both our nation and society.

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Noura Alblooshi, General Manager, Emirates Institute of Finance

Emirati women play a vital role in the UAE’s overall development, especially in the financial and banking sector. Thanks to our wise leadership, which prioritises investing in human resources and empowering women, the UAE has become a global leader in female empowerment.

At the Emirates Institute of Finance, we empower women through world-class training and provide them with the right tools and opportunities to thrive and grow, reflecting the vision set forth by our nation’s leadership.

Emirati women accounted for 32 per cent of participants in our training courses and workshops last year, with a 27 per cent increase in women’s participation over the past five years.

This indicates that women are encouraged to play an active role in the country’s economic progress.

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Alya Al Zarouni, COO, DIFC Authority

The UAE is a leading country in gender equality in the region, as highlighted by the World Economic Forum’s 2024 Global Gender Gap Report. As an Emirati woman, I am proud to be part of a nation that celebrates women’s achievements and provides limitless opportunities for reaching senior leadership positions.

At DIFC, we are grateful to Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the ‘Mother of the Nation,’ for her support in encouraging Emirati women to lead pioneering achievements across vital sectors. We continue our efforts to create a supportive and enabling work environment that empowers women, tapping into their skills and potential, ultimately contributing to the UAE’s growth.

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Waood Ibrahim Al Mutawa, HR director, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Al Maryah Retail Company

In celebration of Emirati Women’s Day, I am honoured to be part of a nation and an industry that recognises and celebrates the invaluable contributions of women. The UAE’s National Policy for the Empowerment of Emirati Women 2023 – 2031 represents a steadfast commitment to providing every Emirati woman with the support and resources necessary to build a fulfilling and impactful career.

At the heart of this vision lies the crucial role of mentorship. By fostering strong mentor-mentee relationships, we can offer invaluable guidance, support, and inspiration to emerging female leaders. Together, we are not merely paving the way for the future; we are mentoring, empowering, and leading a path where our influence will resonate globally, leaving an indelible mark on the world.

Through our dedication to mentorship, we are ensuring that the next generation of Emirati women is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to drive our nation forward, continuing the legacy of excellence and innovation that defines the UAE.

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Mariam Al Meraikhi, key account manager, Schneider Electric

My journey as a young Emirati woman in the industrial sector came with its challenges, but with a love for what I do and the support of an amazing team, I found my way.

I’m continually inspired by Emirati women breaking new ground in this sector, especially in fields like digital automation, technology, and engineering. Their success shows the strength of diversity and the limitless potential of women. Remember, every challenge is a chance to grow, and with passion, you can achieve anything.

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