The United Arab Emirates has emerged as the leading country in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) for hiring women in leadership roles, according to the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2025. The report highlights a 4.5% annual rise in women appointed to senior positions in the UAE—outpacing the global trend, where most nations are seeing a decline in female leadership hiring.
The UAE’s progress has pushed the nation up five spots in the global gender parity index, moving from 74th to 69th. The overall hiring of women also saw a 2% increase, showing a strong national shift toward gender-inclusive workforce development. This consistent growth positions the UAE as a regional role model for advancing gender balance across both public and private sectors.
UAE Sets Itself Apart from Global Trends
While leadership opportunities for women are shrinking globally, the UAE is heading in the opposite direction. Backed by LinkedIn data, the report confirms that women in the Emirates are not just entering the workforce—they are stepping into roles of real power and influence. This shift reflects the country’s strategic efforts to build a more inclusive, forward-looking economy.
With rising awareness and reforms that promote equality, the UAE is challenging long-standing gender norms and creating an environment where women leaders can thrive.
Equal Representation in Parliament
Political empowerment has also seen remarkable progress. The UAE has achieved full gender balance in its parliamentary seats, joining global leaders like Mexico and Rwanda. It now ranks 32nd worldwide in political empowerment with a score of 37.2%, showcasing that female leadership in the country is not limited to boardrooms—it extends to government as well.
This milestone reinforces the nation’s long-term vision of inclusivity at all levels of decision-making.
UAE Women Lead in Skills and AI Adaptation
LinkedIn insights further reveal that women in the UAE are gaining broader work experience across industries, making them more adaptable in an evolving job market. They are also more likely to actively pursue skill development, especially in areas related to artificial intelligence and digital tools.
Compared to men, UAE women demonstrate slightly higher confidence in using AI technologies, indicating a future-ready mindset that aligns with global digital transformation trends. Their willingness to learn and upskill positions them as key players in industries driven by innovation and automation.
A Blueprint for Inclusive Growth
The UAE’s achievements in gender parity are more than policy wins—they represent a shift in national identity and values. By prioritizing female leadership and professional development, the country is building a resilient, competitive economy rooted in inclusivity and equal opportunity.
This approach benefits not only women but the broader economy, as studies consistently link diverse leadership with improved organizational performance and innovation.
Final Thought
The UAE’s rise in female leadership hiring is setting a new benchmark for the MENA region and beyond. In a time when many countries are falling behind, the UAE is proving that gender equality is not just possible—it’s essential for progress. With continuous investments in skills, political balance, and workplace inclusion, the Emirates is not just closing the gender gap—it’s leading the way.
