In a groundbreaking move aimed at promoting gender equality, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced that all public and private companies must have at least one woman on their board of directors. This mandatory requirement is a significant step towards empowering women in the corporate world and ensuring greater diversity in leadership positions.
The decision is part of the UAE’s broader efforts to modernize its economy and create a more inclusive society. By mandating female representation on boards, the government aims to harness the talents and perspectives of women, leading to better decision-making and improved corporate governance.
The new law will apply to all companies listed on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) and Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX). It is expected to have a significant impact on the composition of boards across various sectors, including finance, technology, energy, and healthcare.
While some companies may have already implemented voluntary measures to increase female representation on their boards, the new mandate ensures that women have a guaranteed presence at the highest levels of corporate decision-making.
This decision is a landmark moment for gender equality in the UAE and sends a strong message to the international business community. It highlights the country’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable environment for women in the workplace.