Emirati women take leading roles at DIFC Courts as women make up 62 per cent of workforce

The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts now boast a workforce where women constitute 62% of the employees, with Emirati women taking on prominent roles within the judiciary, Registry, and Executive Team. As the UAE commemorates its first Emirati Women's Month, the theme for 2026 is "We Emerge Stronger and Better."

The DIFC Courts emphasizes that the high representation of Emirati women underscores their commitment to developing expertise in law, dispute resolution, and court administration. Among the senior positions held by Emirati women is Justice Maha Al Mheiri, who became the first Emirati woman appointed to a judicial role on a common law bench and currently presides over cases in the Court of First Instance.

Ayesha Bin Kalban serves as the Registrar, handling the Registry's operations as well as serving as a Small Claims Tribunal judge and mediator. Amna Al Owais made history as the first Emirati woman to hold the position of Registrar in a common law court within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), now serving as Deputy Director of the DIFC Courts, where she plays a pivotal role in shaping the institution's strategy and institutional development.

Reem Al Shihhe assumes the role of Chief Operating Officer, managing the operational departments of the courts, having previously held leadership positions in human resources and business excellence. Director of the DIFC Courts, Justice Omar Al Mheiri, highlights the crucial roles Emirati women play in both the present operations and future direction of the institution.

He states that Emirati women are instrumental in shaping the delivery of dispute resolution and setting the course for the next generation of Emirati women judges, registrars, and court leaders. The DIFC Courts operate under an independent English-language common law system, addressing civil and commercial disputes. The institution is dedicated to continuing its efforts to provide opportunities for Emirati women in adjudication, court administration, mediation, and institutional leadership, aiming to strengthen national expertise in dispute resolution.