As of April 2025, women hold 14.8% of board seats in UAE, the highest in the GCC region.
The above statistics underscore a transformative shift, with women increasingly taking on leadership roles and reshaping industry norms. This evolution is not only enhancing gender diversity but also driving innovation and economic growth.
Shattering the Glass Ceiling
Women are making significant inroads into the upper echelons of the UAE banking industry. Women constitute a large fraction of the Emirati workforce in the banking sector, the highest representation across all industries. Notable figures like Hana Al Rostamani, CEO of First Abu Dhabi Bank, exemplify the growing presence of women in top-tier positions. This upward trend signifies a broader movement towards gender parity in the financial sector.
Policy-Driven Progress
Government and institutional policies are actively fostering women’s empowerment in the UAE.
- Board Representation Mandate: The UAE Securities and Commodities Authority requires at least 20% female representation on company boards, with companies mandated to disclose gender diversity in annual reports.
- Leadership Programs: Initiatives like the Nomu Al Ghurair Women Empowerment Program are equipping women with leadership skills and promoting their participation in the digital economy.
- National Empowerment Policy: The National Policy for Empowerment of Emirati Women – 2031 aims to facilitate equitable participation of women across all sectors.
These policies are instrumental in creating an environment conducive to women’s advancement in banking.
Breaking Stereotypes
Women in the UAE are excelling in traditionally male-dominated areas of banking.
- Digital Banking Leadership: Women leaders are steering digital transformation initiatives, positioning their institutions at the forefront of innovation.
- Mentorship and Growth: Executives such as Shamsa Al-Falasi, CEO of Citibank UAE, emphasize mentorship and youth development, fostering the next generation of banking professionals.
These leaders are challenging stereotypes and setting new standards in the industry.
A Commitment to Inspiring the Next Generation
Trailblazing women in the UAE banking sector are serving as role models, inspiring future leaders. The UAE’s commitment to women’s empowerment in banking is evident through policy initiatives, leadership representation, and cultural shifts. As women continue to break barriers, they are not only transforming the banking industry but also contributing to the nation’s broader socio-economic development.
At Clayfin, we believe that inclusion and innovation go hand in hand. By enabling banks to deliver human-centric digital experiences, we help them foster greater diversity, accessibility, and leadership opportunities across their customer and employee ecosystems.
