Page 22 - ECI PR REPORT - AUGUST 2025

8/28/25, 8:10 AM Emirati Women's Day 2025: Celebrating 50 years of empowerment

Supporting women entrepreneurs

Emerging data from government reports underscore the expanding economic role of Emirati women in sustainability-linked
sectors. The Ministry of Economy’s recent annual report highlights a 12 percent year-on-year increase in women-led
enterprises within green technology and sustainable finance from 2023 to 2025, demonstrating tangible progress toward
gender-responsive growth. Moreover, the UAE’s participation and leadership in global forums like G20 emphasize
women’s integral contribution to international climate negotiations and sustainable development partnerships, magnifying
the nation’s holistic approach to empowerment combined with environmental stewardship. Through such initiatives,
Emirati women are not only shaping policy domestically but also establishing the UAE as a regional and global role model
for sustainable development aligned with gender equality.

Dr. Saeeda Jaffar commented, “Emirati women are at the forefront of forming a sustainable future, and government-backed
initiatives have amplified this momentum. The National Strategy for Empowerment of Emirati Women has integrated
women into sustainable sectors and the Gender Balance Council has strengthened their role in leadership. At the same time,
climate programs like Nature-based Solutions for Climate, Biodiversity & People have placed them at the center of
environmental action. In the private sector, initiatives such as Visa’s She’s Next complement these efforts by providing
women entrepreneurs with access to capital, mentorship, and networking to help women-led SMEs grow, contribute to
UAE’s economic resilience. Together, these programs are giving women the tools and opportunities to make a lasting
contribution to the nation’s future.”

The UAE’s commitment to gender equality extends beyond its borders through active participation in international
partnerships and initiatives that address the global gender gap. Efforts include collaboration with global organizations to
share best practices, promote women’s education and workforce inclusion, and support peace and security agendas
influenced by gender perspectives.

The UAE regularly ranks at the top in the Arab world for closing gender gaps, as reflected in reports by the World
Economic Forum, and has set ambitious goals to serve as a role model for women’s empowerment in the region and

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