Empowering Emirati Women: A Catalyst for Economic Growth in the UAE

With a remarkable literacy rate of 95.8% among women, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands as a beacon of gender parity in the Arab world. This achievement is a testament to the country’s unwavering commitment to integrating women as key partners in its economic growth narrative. As the UAE continues to evolve into a global economic powerhouse, it is essential to explore how the nation is equipping Emirati women with the skills and opportunities necessary to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

A Strong Educational Foundation

The UAE’s educational landscape is diverse and inclusive, fostering an environment where women are not just participants but leaders in academia. Today, more women than men complete secondary education and pursue higher education. Notably, Emirati women make up 70% of all university graduates in the UAE, with 77% enrolling in higher education after secondary school. Furthermore, 56% of graduates in STEM fields at government universities are women, highlighting the UAE’s dedication to cultivating a skilled and gender-balanced workforce.

This educational foundation is crucial as it prepares Emirati women to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economic transformation. The integration of entrepreneurship programs into traditional school curriculums is bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry demands, nurturing creative thinking and problem-solving skills essential for future entrepreneurs.

Supporting Women Entrepreneurs

The entrepreneurial spirit among Emirati women is flourishing, with a 2022 survey revealing that 77.6% of women-owned businesses in the UAE are led by individuals under the age of 40. This trend reflects the impact of educational initiatives that inspire young women to pursue entrepreneurship as a viable career path. Over the past five years, higher education institutions have witnessed a 25-30% increase in entrepreneurship course enrollments, connecting aspiring entrepreneurs with seasoned mentors and industry leaders.

The UAE’s rise as a hub for innovation and digital technologies has further empowered women to create and lead. With access to critical business resources, streamlined business setup processes, and robust government support programs, Emirati women are launching and scaling businesses across various sectors, including fintech, energy, and logistics.

Initiatives like the SWAN Programme by the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development are instrumental in helping Emirati women transition home-based businesses into sustainable commercial enterprises. Additionally, Business Women Councils in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah provide networking opportunities, mentorship, and training, fostering a supportive environment for women entrepreneurs.

The Role of Technology and Digital Skills

As the UAE embraces technological advancements, the importance of equipping women with digital skills cannot be overstated. With artificial intelligence projected to contribute nearly 14% of the UAE’s GDP by 2030, initiatives like the National Program for Coders’ ‘AI-Forward’ are empowering Emirati women through comprehensive training in AI and data-related fields. This focus ensures that women entrepreneurs are well-prepared to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the digital landscape.

Training programs go beyond technical skills; they empower women to overcome cultural and gender-based barriers, set higher expectations, and navigate the complexities of business development. Micro-credentials in digital marketing, social media, AI, and machine learning are becoming increasingly popular, validating women’s expertise and enhancing their credibility in the business world.

Online education platforms are also responding to the growing interest in entrepreneurship by offering flexible and accessible learning opportunities. In the first half of 2024, Coursera reported nearly 73,000 course enrollments from female learners in the UAE, reflecting the country’s commitment to providing diverse educational pathways crucial for developing the next generation of female entrepreneurs.

A Vision for the Future

The UAE recognizes that empowered women are not merely beneficiaries of progress; they are the driving force behind thriving economies and sustainable futures. The National Policy for Empowerment of Emirati Women – 2031 aims to integrate women into the labor market, enhance their capacities, and promote entrepreneurship through continuous education and vocational training.

By fostering entrepreneurial skills and investing in the education and upskilling of Emirati women, the UAE is realizing its vision of a sustainable, innovative, and inclusive economy. As the nation continues to build on its achievements, the development of women entrepreneurs will be vital for sustained economic growth and innovation.

In conclusion, the UAE’s commitment to empowering women through education, entrepreneurship, and technology is paving the way for a brighter future. By nurturing the talents and ambitions of Emirati women, the country is not only enhancing gender parity but also ensuring a robust and dynamic economy that benefits all its citizens.

The writer is the general manager for the Middle East and Africa at Coursera.