Emirati women in private sector: 71.5% hold skilled jobs, 69.8% are 35 or younger

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) reported a significant rise in the participation of Emirati women in the UAE's private sector by the end of the first half of 2026. Over 190,000 Emirati men and women were employed, highlighting the effectiveness of the UAE's policies and initiatives to empower women and promote gender balance in the labor market.

Notably, 69.8% of Emirati women in the private sector are aged 35 or younger, demonstrating the growing presence of young women in the workforce. The data revealed that Emirati women dominate several key sectors, including education (93.9%), healthcare (91.7%), and information technology (59.4%).

A substantial 71.5% of Emirati women working in the private sector hold skilled positions, such as specialist, technical, and professional roles. Furthermore, Emirati women make up 55.1% of leadership positions in the private sector, with 98.4% of these skilled Emirati women employed in the private sector.

The UAE's Nafis program has played a crucial role in encouraging Emirati men and women to join the private sector. By providing financial support, training, and continuous professional development, the program has created a more attractive working environment for national female talent. Emirati women are increasingly embracing new professional experiences in fields like the digital economy, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and creative industries, which are vital drivers of the national economy.

The UAE's Labour Relations Law offers a balanced regulatory framework that protects women's rights and ensures equal opportunities with men in the workplace. Additionally, the law provides supportive measures for working mothers, including maternity leave, flexible working arrangements, and workplace childcare facilities. These policies have enabled women to balance their professional and family responsibilities, contributing to the overall success of Emirati women in the private sector.

The UAE's leadership has recognized the importance of empowering women and placing them at the core of its development strategies. As a result, more Emirati women are entering the labor market and pursuing careers in the private sector, which has become an attractive destination for national talent. This trend supports the UAE's goals for sustainable development and positions the country among the world's leading sustainable economies.