10 Powerful Emirati Women Leaders Shaping UAE’s Future

Emirati women are breaking glass ceilings throughout the UAE. Women now hold 6.7% of CEO positions, which is higher than the global average of 5%.

The UAE’s society thrives on gender equality. Emirati women have equal legal status as men, with the same access to education, career opportunities, and property rights. More female leaders continue to emerge, and trailblazers like Her Excellency Sheikha Lubna Bint Khalid bin Sultan Al-Qasimi made history as the UAE’s first female minister. Female CEOs keep reaching new heights, as shown by Shamsa Al-Falasi who took charge of Citibank’s UAE onshore branch.

The UAE will celebrate a milestone – the 10th anniversary of Emirati Women’s Day in 2025. Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation, started this tradition in 2015 to honor women’s crucial role in the nation’s growth. The UAE leads all GCC countries with women occupying nearly 10% of board seats in companies listed on Abu Dhabi and Dubai stock exchanges. This piece highlights ten outstanding leaders who illustrate the incredible journey of Emirati women in positions of power and influence.

Hana Al Rostamani – CEO, First Abu Dhabi Bank

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Hana Al Rostamani broke new ground in early 2021 by becoming the first female Group CEO of First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the UAE’s largest financial institution. This appointment stands as a milestone for gender diversity in the region’s financial sector. She remains the only female chief executive leading a publicly listed corporation in the UAE.

Hana Al Rostamani’s current role and responsibilities

Since January 2021, Al Rostamani leads FAB’s operations across 20 countries with total assets reaching AED 1229.37 billion as of 2024. She shapes the bank’s strategic vision and spearheads its digital transformation initiatives. Her journey to the top started with roles as FAB’s Deputy Group CEO and Group Head of Personal Banking, where she led the bank’s consumer transformation with customer-focused digital solutions.

Hana Al Rostamani’s key achievements

Al Rostamani’s leadership has propelled FAB to new heights. The bank posted record profits of AED 13.95 billion in 2023, showing a 17% increase from the previous year. FAB expanded its market reach through smart acquisitions. The 2021 purchase of Bank Audi Egypt made FAB one of Egypt’s largest foreign banks, with assets worth AED 36.72 billion by March 2022. Her digital-first approach paid off as digital account openings grew by 140% after introducing mobile-first banking features.

Hana Al Rostamani’s leadership style and vision

Al Rostamani blends innovation with inclusivity in her leadership approach. She builds a culture that thrives on technological advancement, diversity, and sustainability. FAB’s partnership with Microsoft to create an AI Innovation Hub for financial services shows her forward-thinking mindset. The bank’s AI-powered wealth management tools helped boost client assets by 22% in just two years.

Hana Al Rostamani’s contributions to UAE’s future

Al Rostamani puts FAB at the vanguard of sustainable finance in the UAE. She chairs the Global Council on Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on “Affordable and Clean Energy”. Under her watch, FAB aims to provide over AED 495.71 billion in sustainable financing by 2030. The bank secured AED 7.34 billion in green bonds for renewable energy projects.

Hana Al Rostamani’s awards and recognition

Recognition follows Al Rostamani’s achievements naturally. She claimed the top spot on Forbes Middle East’s list of powerful businesswomen for 2023, moving up two positions from the previous year. Her influence extends globally, earning her a place on Forbes’ World’s Most Powerful Women 2023 list.

Hana Al Rostamani’s advocacy and mentorship

Al Rostamani serves actively on several prestigious boards:

• Buna, the Arab Monetary Fund’s cross-border payment system
• The Institute of International Finance (IIF)
• The International Institute for Management Development (IMD)
• The Executive Board of the US-UAE Business Council

Her mentorship programs have boosted female leadership roles by 35% across GCC banks. During a World Economic Forum panel, she shared her core belief that “diverse teams make bolder decisions”.

Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg – Chairperson, Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group

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Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg leads one of UAE’s most influential family businesses. She has made her mark as an innovative force in the Middle Eastern business world. Her role as the Chairperson and Managing Director of the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group (ESAG) builds on her late father’s legacy while creating new paths for female leadership in the region.

Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg’s current role and responsibilities

ESAG’s operations span 27 companies in retail, construction, and manufacturing sectors under Dr. Al Gurg’s leadership. She holds several powerful positions beyond her corporate leadership. She serves as the Deputy Chairperson of the National Bank of Fujairah and sits on Coutts Bank’s advisory board. Her educational governance roles include Vice Chairperson at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences and the University of Dubai. She also serves as a board member of Dubai Chambers.

Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg’s key achievements

Dr. Al Gurg has shattered glass ceilings for women in business throughout her career. She created the Dubai Business Women Council, which became a crucial platform for female entrepreneurs in the UAE. Her writing achievements stand out too. She published her autobiography in 2019, becoming the first Emirati businesswoman to do so. Her 2023 book “The Power of Authenticity: Three Principles of Leadership Success” shares valuable lessons from her rise to become one of the Arab world’s most influential business leaders.

Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg’s leadership style and vision

Authenticity and resilience shape Dr. Al Gurg’s leadership approach. ESAG now represents over 370 global brands under her guidance. This expansion has boosted UAE’s standing in the global marketplace. She builds on her father’s legacy as a second-generation leader while redefining the limits through innovative strategies and global alliances.

Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg’s contributions to UAE’s future

Dr. Al Gurg leads the Al Jalila Foundation and works to establish UAE as a hub for medical education and research excellence. The Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation supports social welfare projects across the country. She advances academic excellence as the Honorary Pro-Chancellor at Dubai’s Heriot-Watt University.

Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg’s awards and recognition

Dr. Al Gurg’s impact has earned her several prestigious honors:

• Ranked second in Forbes Middle East’s “Most Powerful Businesswomen” listing for 2023
• Featured among “The World’s 100 Most Powerful Women” by Forbes for 2023
• Listed in Arabian Business’ “100 Most Inspiring Leaders in the Middle East” for 2023
• Awarded the Legion of Honor Chevalier (Knight) by French President Emmanuel Macron in 2020
• Holds honorary doctorates from Queen’s University Belfast and Amity University, India

Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg’s advocacy and mentorship

Dr. Al Gurg champions women’s empowerment beyond her corporate success. The Dubai Business Women Council, which she founded, creates platforms for education, training, and networking for female entrepreneurs. She speaks at global forums like the Arab International Women’s Forum about the importance of women’s economic participation for national growth. Her mentorship helps shape future leaders, especially women who aim to succeed in male-dominated industries.

Raja Al Mazrouei – CEO, Etihad Credit Insurance

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Raja Al Mazrouei has become a key leader in the UAE’s economic landscape with her 20-year expertise in financial technology and breakthroughs. She serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Credit Insurance (ECI) and represents the growing influence of Emirati women in traditionally male-dominated sectors.

Raja Al Mazrouei’s current role and responsibilities

Raja Al Mazrouei took the CEO position at Etihad Credit Insurance in May 2023. Her path at ECI started as a board member in January 2022. She advanced to Managing Director in November 2022 and became Acting CEO in January 2023. She leads the UAE’s federal export credit company and drives initiatives to strengthen non-oil trade. Her work helps UAE exporters compete globally through data-driven systems that improve service delivery.

Raja Al Mazrouei’s key achievements

Before leading ECI, Al Mazrouei worked as Executive Vice President of DIFC FinTech Hive. She built one of the region’s most successful fintech ecosystems. The FinTech Hive grew over 500 financial technology startups under her leadership. She coordinated two major memorandums of understanding with Saudi EXIM Bank and Credit Oman in October 2024. These partnerships strengthened regional insurance and risk management.

Raja Al Mazrouei’s leadership style and vision

Her leadership philosophy centers on humility, collaboration, and inclusion. “Leadership is about inspiring progress, building trust and cultivating a healthy environment for individuals,” she emphasizes. Her strategic vision includes:

• Making trade credit insurance digital
• Accepting new ideas and excellence as guiding principles
• Focusing on eco-friendly trade strategies
• Supporting SME growth to boost UAE’s economic contribution

Raja Al Mazrouei’s contributions to UAE’s future

Al Mazrouei strengthens the UAE’s position as a dynamic global trading hub through her role at ECI. She creates tailored financial solutions that help businesses—especially SMEs—alleviate trade risks and expand internationally. Her efforts support the UAE’s economic diversification goals and improve the nation’s economic resilience.

Raja Al Mazrouei’s awards and recognition

Her exceptional leadership got prestigious accolades:

• Recognition among the “Top 100 CEOs in the Middle East” (2023) by Forbes Middle East
• Listed among the “100 Most Powerful Businesswomen” (2023) by Forbes Middle East
• Woman of the Year (Leadership) Gold Award at Citywealth Powerwomen Awards 2025
• Named among the “50 Most Influential Women in Middle East Finance” by Dow Jones

Raja Al Mazrouei’s advocacy and mentorship

Al Mazrouei remains dedicated to enabling women in finance beyond her executive duties. She created AccelerateHer to help young female professionals build careers in financial services. “I’m confident that AccelerateHer will complement these efforts by exposing the young female talent of the UAE to a diverse range of experiences that allow them to play a more influential role in the future of the industry,” she stated. She creates pathways for women professionals to excel in leadership roles.

Shamsa Al Falasi – CEO, Citibank UAE

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April 2023 marked a historic milestone in UAE’s banking sector. Shamsa Al Falasi became the first Emirati woman to lead Citibank N.A. UAE Onshore Branch as Chief Executive Officer. Her remarkable rise from graduate trainee to chief executive shows how the digital world has evolved for women leaders in the Emirates.

Shamsa Al Falasi’s current role and responsibilities

Al Falasi leads Citibank UAE Onshore while serving as Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for all Citi entities operating onshore and offshore in the country. Her role covers Citi’s complete range of financial services. These include Corporate & Investment Banking, Capital Markets, Sales & Trading, Transactions Services, Private Banking, and Commercial Banking. She guides Citibank’s position as a regional hub for the Middle East & Africa Cluster that serves 59 markets.

Shamsa Al Falasi’s key achievements

Al Falasi’s career at Citi spans nearly two decades with rich experience in multiple locations. She started as a graduate in 2004 and worked in Dublin, London, and São Paulo before returning to the UAE. The year 2015 saw her appointment as Head of the Global Subsidiaries Group (GSG) for the UAE and Iraq. She expanded her role in 2018 to lead the entire GCC region and Iraq. Early 2023 marked her service as interim Citi Country Officer (CCO) and interim CEO before her permanent role.

Shamsa Al Falasi’s leadership style and vision

Al Falasi believes in continuous learning and self-assessment. “What I’ve realized is evaluating my skills every six months and usually holding myself accountable, took me a very long way,” she noted. She values client feedback and promotes a customer-first approach. “Together we will continue to provide the highest standards of products and services to our clients,” she stated.

Shamsa Al Falasi’s contributions to UAE’s future

Al Falasi breaks gender barriers in banking and shapes UAE’s economic growth through her board positions. Since 2018, she has served as a Board Member and Vice President for memberships at AMCHAM Dubai. This role strengthens American businesses’ voice in the UAE.

Shamsa Al Falasi’s awards and recognition

Her excellence earned recognition as the best UAE national female banker in 2013. Citi’s CEO and His Highness Sheik Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi presented this award. Ebru Pakcan, CEO of Citi’s Middle East and Africa Cluster, called her CEO appointment “a landmark appointment which testifies to Shamsa’s talent and leadership skills”.

Shamsa Al Falasi’s advocacy and mentorship

Al Falasi champions future female leaders as Co-Chair of Citi Women’s Network in the UAE and Citi Women Leadership and Development Program Community Ambassador. She mentors as a certified professional coach in programs like the AccelerateHer program hosted by DIFC Fintech Hive. Speaking about her mentoring work, Al Falasi shared, “I very much enjoy it and gives me a lot of satisfaction when I see people actually reaching areas they would want to be in”.

Rola Abu Manneh – CEO, Standard Chartered UAE

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Rola Abu Manneh believes self-confidence paves the way to success in finance. She has blazed a trail among Emirati women leaders. Standard Chartered UAE appointed her as CEO in August 2018, making her the first Emirati woman to lead a bank in the UAE.

Rola Abu Manneh’s current role and responsibilities

Standard Chartered expanded Abu Manneh’s leadership role in 2023 to cover the Middle East and Pakistan. She oversees the Priority Private center in Dubai that provides specialized wealth management services to affluent clients. Her board positions include Standard Chartered Pakistan Limited, Standard Chartered Uganda, and digital ventures MyZoi and Appro through SC Ventures.

Rola Abu Manneh’s key achievements

Abu Manneh’s leadership has turned the UAE franchise into one of Standard Chartered Group’s top three global markets. She previously led Corporate & Investment Banking at First Abu Dhabi Bank. Her expertise spans project finance, syndications, and global transaction banking.

Rola Abu Manneh’s leadership style and vision

Abu Manneh’s leadership approach centers on emotional intelligence and open communication. “Confidence is significant in navigating professional tasks, and self-advocacy is key in communicating aspirations, accomplishments, and concerns,” she notes. She believes great leaders must understand both human elements and technical expertise.

Rola Abu Manneh’s contributions to UAE’s future

The Dubai International Chamber’s Board of Directors benefits from Abu Manneh’s expertise in representing Dubai’s business interests. Her most vital contribution comes from developing cross-border financial solutions that establish Dubai as a wealth management hub.

Rola Abu Manneh’s awards and recognition

Her excellence has got her several honors:

• Banking Leader of the Year at the Gulf Business Awards (2021)
• Featured in Forbes Middle East’s “Power Businesswomen” list for three consecutive years
• Recognition in Arabian Business’ “Women Business Leaders – Middle East List” (2021)

Rola Abu Manneh’s advocacy and mentorship

Abu Manneh stands as a champion for women’s empowerment and female entrepreneurship through various programs. She mentors university students to prepare them with skills needed for professional success. Her commitment extends to serving on the Global Council for Sustainable Development Goal 5 – Gender Equality and representing the UAE in G20Empower.

Najla Al Midfa – CEO, Sheraa

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Najla Al Midfa leads Sharjah’s entrepreneurial ecosystem as Chief Executive Officer of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa). She has reshaped the scene by turning Sheraa into a powerhouse for breakthroughs and startup growth across the Middle East.

Najla Al Midfa’s current role and responsibilities

Al Midfa took charge of Sheraa in 2018 and now leads a core team of 48 employees. Her mission focuses on building Sharjah’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and supporting innovative startups that boost the region’s economy. Her influence extends beyond Sheraa through her board positions at United Arab Bank, Emirates Development Bank, and Dana Gas. She also serves as the Vice-Chairperson of Young Arab Leaders and Co-Chair of the 4th Industrial Revolution Working Group in the UK-UAE Business Council.

Najla Al Midfa’s key achievements

Al Midfa’s portfolio showcases over 150 startups that have raised about AED 591.18 million in investment. These companies have created more than 1,600 jobs and generated over AED 906.97 million in total revenue. Sheraa’s annual Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF) has become a landmark event under her leadership, drawing 300 high-level speakers and over 13,000 attendees from around the world.

Najla Al Midfa’s leadership style and vision

“Every idea finds its purpose, every challenge morphs into an opportunity, and every enraptured dream inches closer to reality” – these words reflect Al Midfa’s leadership philosophy. She believes in going beyond funding to encourage an entrepreneurial mindset through inspiring events and direct mentorship.

Najla Al Midfa’s contributions to UAE’s future

Sheraa plays a vital role in UAE’s growth. Al Midfa states, “We are especially proud about successfully transforming Sharjah into a regional and global hub for entrepreneurship and innovation”. She stays focused on advancing UAE’s “Centennial 2071” goal to make the nation the world’s best.

Najla Al Midfa’s awards and recognition

The Arabian Business Arab Woman Award for Entrepreneurship recognized Al Midfa’s commitment to developing entrepreneurship in the Arab world in 2023. Her achievements also include becoming an Eisenhower Global Fellow and joining the Aspen Institute’s Middle East Leadership Initiative.

Najla Al Midfa’s advocacy and mentorship

Women lead 52% of Sheraa’s startups. Al Midfa supports balanced representation by ensuring diverse judging panels for pitch competitions and speakers at the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival. She helps female entrepreneurs grow their businesses, addressing a global gap where women-led ventures receive only 2% of venture capital funding.

Dr. Maryam Al Suwaidi – CEO, Securities and Commodities Authority

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Dr. Maryam Al Suwaidi made history in October 2021 by becoming the first woman to lead the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) in both the UAE and Gulf Cooperation Council countries. This milestone achievement reshaped female leadership in regional financial regulation.

Dr. Maryam Al Suwaidi’s current role and responsibilities

The SCA’s CEO oversees the legislative framework that develops and strengthens UAE’s capital markets. Her authority extends to the Dubai Financial Market, Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange, and Dubai Gold and Commodities Exchange. She also shapes regulations that affect institutions in free zones like Dubai International Financial Center and Abu Dhabi Global Markets.

Dr. Maryam Al Suwaidi’s key achievements

Dr. Al Suwaidi’s career stands out with remarkable accomplishments. She became the first Emirati woman to receive accreditation from the Financial Action Task Force as an international assessor in anti-money laundering. Her leadership helped SCA reach the top rank in corporate board effectiveness in the World Competitiveness Yearbook.

Dr. Maryam Al Suwaidi’s leadership style and vision

State-of-the-art thinking and adaptability define her leadership philosophy. “One should seize every opportunity they can while always continuing to seek out innovation,” Dr. Al Suwaidi stated. She believes technology is a vital differentiator, noting that “technology will distinguish the good from the excellent in the foreseeable future”.

Dr. Maryam Al Suwaidi’s contributions to UAE’s future

UAE securities markets thrived under her leadership, growing 350% over three years. The market value jumped from AED 1.1 trillion to AED 3.5 trillion. She championed new regulations for securitization, green bonds, and sustainability-focused investment funds. The UAE’s first framework allowing cooperatives’ shares on financial markets came to life through her initiatives.

Dr. Maryam Al Suwaidi’s awards and recognition

Her excellence got worldwide recognition. Forbes magazine named her among the five most powerful businesswomen in the Middle East. Nasdaq Stock Exchange celebrated her achievements three times by displaying her image on its iconic Times Square building. The first honor came in 2016 through the ‘Women in Market Technology’ campaign, followed by celebrations of her historic appointment in 2021.

Dr. Maryam Al Suwaidi’s advocacy and mentorship

Dr. Al Suwaidi goes beyond her executive role to support youth development. She led a dialog session in August 2024 titled “The Role of Young Emiratis in Building A Sustainable Digital Economy”. She believes in giving young people “up-to-date digital skills, such as AI applications, that help accelerate the achievement of the UAE’s sustainable development goals”.

Tayba Al Hashemi – CEO, ADNOC Offshore

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Tayba Al Hashemi stands as a revolutionary force in the male-dominated energy sector. She guides ADNOC Offshore, one of the world’s largest offshore energy producers and ranks among the most influential Emirati women in the oil and gas industry.

Tayba Al Hashemi’s current role and responsibilities

ADNOC Offshore appointed Al Hashemi as CEO in February 2023. She leads a workforce of 7,300 employees among seven international partners. Her team delivers about half of Abu Dhabi’s oil and gas production safely. She manages nine major offshore fields. ADNOC Offshore plays a vital role to employ energy resources from Abu Dhabi waters sustainably.

Tayba Al Hashemi’s key achievements

Al Hashemi became the first female CEO of an ADNOC Group company in 2018 at Al Yasat Petroleum. She served as CEO of ADNOC Sour Gas from 2020 to 2023. The company became a competitive and reliable gas supplier under her guidance. Her career started in 2002 as a Reservoir Engineer at ADNOC. She moved through leadership positions steadily and became Senior Vice President of Exploration. She restructured ADNOC’s development strategies in this role.

Tayba Al Hashemi’s leadership style and vision

“It was a clear and focused path for me and although I was conscious of there being a lack of females in the industry at that time, I was confident that with the UAE leadership being as encouraging and supportive of women as it was, and has continued to be, that this would be possible for me to achieve my goals,” she reflects. Her innovative mindset promotes technological advancement. ADNOC Offshore’s implementation of AI solutions and a AED 13.95 billion electrification megaproject proves this commitment.

Tayba Al Hashemi’s contributions to UAE’s future

Since 2021, Al Hashemi chairs ADIPEC, the world’s largest energy conference. This position establishes the UAE as a global center for energy breakthroughs. ADNOC Offshore’s ambitious carbon footprint reduction initiative aims for up to 50% decrease through the electrification megaproject. These efforts support UAE’s sustainability goals and energy transition strategy.

Tayba Al Hashemi’s awards and recognition

Available information does not detail specific awards. However, her appointment as ADNOC Group’s first female CEO demonstrates her exceptional capabilities and achievements.

Tayba Al Hashemi’s advocacy and mentorship

Al Hashemi’s participation in ADNOC’s Gender Balance Committee creates opportunities for women in the energy sector. Her leadership at ADNOC Offshore “highlights the growing role of women in the energy sector, reflecting the industry’s shift toward inclusivity and innovation and inspiring more women to pursue leadership roles”.

Hind bin Khirbash – CEO, Emirates National Investment

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Hind bin Khirbash stands out among prominent Emirati women leaders through her diverse business approach and dedication to community development. She combines entrepreneurial vision with academic excellence.

Hind bin Khirbash’s current role and responsibilities

Bin Khirbash leads Emirates National Investment (ENI) as CEO since April 2016. She manages a regional development group that operates in real estate, construction, and fast-moving consumer goods. Dubai Chamber of Commerce welcomed her to its board in June 2021, and she joined xCub’s board in 2022. The UAE’s International Charity Organization also benefits from her board membership. Her entrepreneurial journey includes founding Twenty Eight Interiors in April 2014 and Bullets and Butterflies, a fashion retail boutique she launched in June 2007.

Hind bin Khirbash’s key achievements

ENI has completed several high-profile projects in the Emirates under her leadership. These projects include Burj Al Shams, ENI Coral Tower, and Churchill Towers Dubai. She formed a mutually beneficial alliance with ADNOC. The 2018 World Government Summit brought her international acclaim when she won first place in the Shaping Future Government Global Universities Challenge.

Hind bin Khirbash’s leadership style and vision

A distinctive “rule of three” philosophy guides bin Khirbash’s approach. This philosophy includes building support networks, showing audacity in all attempts, and focusing steadily on objectives. She believes negotiation works as a process rather than a personality trait. “The EMBA opened my eyes to the fact that at work we set our own restrictions and limits,” she notes, showing her drive to expand boundaries.

Hind bin Khirbash’s contributions to UAE’s future

Bin Khirbash believes that “success is something that should also be measured in how your business supports communities”. She develops products that help improve lives while creating economic opportunities throughout operational regions.

Hind bin Khirbash’s awards and recognition

Forbes magazine ranks her among the “100 Most Powerful Businesswomen in the Middle East” for 2023. Sheik Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Prime Minister of UAE, presented her first-place award at the World Government Summit’s Universities Challenge, recognizing her academic excellence.

Hind bin Khirbash’s advocacy and mentorship

London Business School’s Executive MBA programs have seen a substantial increase in female participation thanks to bin Khirbash’s role as student ambassador. Her mentorship approach mirrors her business philosophy—she emphasizes perseverance, resilience, and focus during challenging times.

Dr. Dalya Al Muthanna – President, GE UAE

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Dr. Dalya Al Muthanna took charge as Managing Director & CEO of Alstom Gulf after serving as President of GE in the UAE and global Chief of Strategy & Operations for GE International Markets.

Dr. Dalya Al Muthanna’s current role and responsibilities

Al Muthanna stepped into Alstom in January 2024 to lead operations across UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain. She drives sustainable mobility solutions and builds stronger stakeholder relationships in the region. Her time at GE saw her collaborate with industrial verticals in Energy, Aviation, and Healthcare to implement market strategies effectively.

Dr. Dalya Al Muthanna’s key achievements

She began her GE journey in 2008 through their Experienced Commercial Leadership Program. Her career progressed rapidly as she took on several senior positions, including the leadership of strategic marketing for GE’s Energy businesses. She holds a Ph.D. from Imperial College London in business model innovation and an MBA from the American University in Dubai.

Dr. Dalya Al Muthanna’s leadership style and vision

Her leadership philosophy focuses on promoting diversity, developing leadership skills, and nurturing local talent. “Leadership is about inspiring progress, building trust and cultivating a healthy environment for individuals,” she emphasizes.

Dr. Dalya Al Muthanna’s contributions to UAE’s future

She actively supports UAE’s industrial development through sustainability frameworks. “The Operation 300 billion industrial strategy, Make it in the Emirates and the UAE Net Zero for 2050 Strategic Initiative demonstrate the nation’s leadership in driving industrial growth sustainably,” she notes.

Dr. Dalya Al Muthanna’s awards and recognition

Forbes Middle East recognized her excellence by including her in their “100 Most Powerful Businesswomen” lists for 2023 and 2024. She also received the “Achievement in Business” Award at the Arab Woman Awards.

Dr. Dalya Al Muthanna’s advocacy and mentorship

She dedicates herself to enabling women’s growth and mentors rising Emirati talent like Fakhera Al Memari. “Instilling confidence that they have the ability to shine through in their careers must be the core of your mentoring approach,” Al Muthanna advises.

Comparison Table

Name	Current Position	Organization	Year of Appointment	Previous Notable Role	Key Achievement	Notable Recognition/Award
Hana Al Rostamani	Group CEO	First Abu Dhabi Bank	2021	Deputy Group CEO & Head of Personal Banking, FAB	Record profits of AED 13.95B in 2023 (17% YoY increase)	Ranked #1 in Forbes ME Most Powerful Businesswomen 2023
Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg	Chairperson & Managing Director	Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group	Not mentioned	Not mentioned	Founded Dubai Business Women Council	Ranked #2 in Forbes ME Most Powerful Businesswomen 2023
Raja Al Mazrouei	CEO	Etihad Credit Insurance	2023	EVP of DIFC FinTech Hive	Helped growth of 500+ fintech startups	Top 100 CEOs in ME by Forbes 2023
Shamsa Al Falasi	CEO	Citibank UAE	2023	Head of Global Subsidiaries Group for GCC & Iraq	First Emirati woman to lead Citibank UAE	Best UAE National Female Banker Award 2013
Rola Abu Manneh	CEO	Standard Chartered UAE	2018	Head of Corporate & Investment Banking at FAB	Reshaped the scene of UAE franchise into top 3 global markets for Standard Chartered	Banking Leader of the Year at Gulf Business Awards 2021
Najla Al Midfa	CEO	Sheraa	2018	Not mentioned	Portfolio of 150+ startups raising AED 591.18M	Arabian Business Arab Woman Award for Entrepreneurship 2023
Dr. Maryam Al Suwaidi	CEO	Securities and Commodities Authority	2021	Not mentioned	First Emirati woman FATF accredited international assessor	Featured among 5 most powerful ME businesswomen by Forbes
Tayba Al Hashemi	CEO	ADNOC Offshore	2023	CEO of ADNOC Sour Gas	First female CEO in ADNOC Group (2018)	Not mentioned
Hind bin Khirbash	CEO	Emirates National Investment	2016	Founder of Twenty Eight Interiors	Won First Place at World Government Summit Universities Challenge 2018	Forbes 100 Most Powerful Businesswomen ME 2023
Dr. Dalya Al Muthanna	Managing Director & CEO	Alstom Gulf	2024	President of GE UAE	Led GE’s Energy businesses strategic marketing	Forbes 100 Most Powerful Businesswomen ME 2023

These ten pioneering Emirati women leaders show how far the UAE has come in achieving workplace gender equality. Their achievements span industries from banking and finance to energy and entrepreneurship. They have reshaped sectors that men once dominated. Each leader blazed her own trail and created opportunities for future women leaders.

These accomplished women share traits that pushed them to the top of corporate leadership – resilience, creativity, and dedication to excellence. Their success mirrors the changes in UAE society, where women now hold 6.7% of CEO positions. This number exceeds the global average of 5%.

Their rise aligns with the 10th anniversary of Emirati Women’s Day in 2025, which Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak created. This milestone is a chance to celebrate both personal victories and overall progress toward gender equality across UAE’s economy.

These leaders do more than excel in their executive roles. They champion mentorship programs to support rising female talent. Their advocacy helps break down barriers women face in male-dominated sectors like energy, finance, and technology.

These women prove that Emirati women can reach the highest levels of success while staying true to their cultural values and identity. Their influence changes corporate boardrooms daily. Women now hold nearly 10% of board seats in companies listed on Abu Dhabi and Dubai stock exchanges – the highest percentage among GCC countries.

The UAE moves steadily toward economic diversity and sustainable growth. These groundbreaking women leaders will stay vital to this progress. Their leadership, mentorship, and advocacy ensure future generations of Emirati women will find more chances to lead, create, and shape their nation’s future.