The United Arab Emirates on Wednesday announced mandating private joint-stock companies in the country to allocate at least one seat for women on their boards of directors after the completion of the current board’s term, starting from January 2025.
The decision issued by the Ministry of Economy stated that at least one seat must be allocated for women after the end of term of the current boards.
Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, said the decision reinforces the UAE’s vision to enhance gender balance, empowering women in the business sector, and increasing their presence in leadership and decision-making roles. “Over the past decades, women in the UAE have consistently proven their capabilities, making significant contributions to the business, financial, and investment sectors. Today, they are indispensable partners in economic growth and vital to the UAE’s global competitiveness. This decision will bring added value to private joint-stock companies, enhancing their institutional performance by drawing on the insights and experiences of successful businesswomen in the country.”
In 2021, the Board of the UAE Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) issued a landmark decision that mandated public joint stock companies listed in Abu Dhabi and Dubai stock markets to have at least one woman board member.
