UAE Achieves Milestones in Gender Equality In 2024

Women in the UAE have achieved significant milestones and have contributed to the region’s economic growth in 2024. Emirati women achieved growth across various sectors, signifying the UAE’s commitment to women’s empowerment. According to data by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) UAE moved up to the 7th spot globally and maintained its top regional spot in the UN Gender Equality Index 2024.

The UAE government observed a rise in female representation with the appointment of Sana bint Mohammed Suhail as Minister of Family. This came after the establishment of a new ministry focused on family matters. Furthermore, the National Policy for Enhancing Women's Health was initiated, with the goal of ensuring complete healthcare access for women at every stage of their lives.

To enhance women's participation in economic growth, the Ministry of Economy required that private joint-stock companies allocate a minimum of one board position for women once existing terms conclude. This policy will be implemented in January 2025, encouraging diversity in business leadership within a larger economic empowerment framework.

A memorandum was executed between the Ministry of Economy and the General Women's Union to improve communication and consolidate efforts for women's economic empowerment. This collaboration seeks to boost women's involvement in business activities and enhance their contribution to sustainable economic growth.

The General Women's Union launched the second stage of the Women's Economic Empowerment Programme. This initiative provides Emirati women with abilities in different fields, emphasizing entrepreneurship. It assists women in launching or growing small and medium-sized businesses.

At the annual meetings of the UAE Government in 2024, a pact was established between the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council and the UAE Gender Balance Council. This accord seeks to enhance the involvement of Emirati women in the private sector via joint initiatives and programs.

Women constituted 70% of university graduates in the UAE, representing 46% of the workforce. Among these, 68% were working in positions within the public sector. They occupied almost one-third of the ministerial roles and filled half of the seats in the Federal National Council.