Young Emirati Women in the Workplace: Challenges and Opportunities

Document Type

Article

Source of Publication

Hawwa

Publication Date

3-11-2026

Abstract

National incentive plans, labor policies and DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) regulations actively encourage Emirati women’s participation in the UAE employment sector. Women are the face of the future workforce in emerging economies and Emirati females are leading the charge in equalizing gender balance within companies operating in the UAE. Young Emirati women are a particularly salient force in the UAE labor market. Sociocultural, economic, gender-related and national expectations of local women intersect to inform their experiences at a workplace, thus deciding on possibilities to enter and sustain their careers. In relation to this, this article explores young Emirati women’s employment challenges and opportunities as perceived by the research participants themselves. In addition, the article examines the current UAE employment laws, regulations and government programs that impact Emirati women’s workplace interactions and experiences. Finally, the article aims at offering practical solutions for observed challenges inspired by research findings and successful global practices adapted to the sociocultural framework of the UAE. Identifying effective strategies that cater to young Emirati women’s needs, struggles and the cultural context can help companies overcome challenges in attracting and retaining local female talent reserves.

ISSN

1569-2078

Publisher

Walter de Gruyter GmbH

Disciplines

Business | Social and Behavioral Sciences

Keywords

Emiratization, employment challenges, UAE, women, workplace

Scopus ID

105036190272

Indexed in Scopus

yes

Open Access

no

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