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Emirati women now hold more than 50 000 commercial licences with investments surpassing AED 60 billion or $16.3 billion as their labour market participation has risen 101.92 percent in recent years Economy Middle East reported. The figures emerged during the first-ever month-long celebration of Emirati Women’s Day that runs from August 28 to September 28 2026 and highlights women’s growing economic influence across the UAE. The Federal Tax Authority separately disclosed that Emirati women represent 87 percent of its female workforce and 51 percent of total employees with 407 national women on staff including 50 appointed so far this year. These developments underscore the expanding presence of female talent in specialised financial and regulatory roles.
The Department of Municipalities and Transport marked Emirati Women’s Day by spotlighting women shaping everyday life across Abu Dhabi the authority said in a statement carried by WAM. Female employees in municipal planning transport operations and public services were profiled for their contributions to infrastructure projects that support residents daily routines. DMT emphasised how these women advance sustainable urban development and efficient mobility systems that benefit the broader economy. The event aligned with nationwide activities that connect women’s achievements to national progress in trade and investment sectors.
Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange data places nearly 125 000 active Emirati female investors in its market by the end of July 2026 with shareholdings valued at approximately AED 39 billion. These holdings account for 94 percent of the total value held by all female investors on the exchange according to ADX figures. Women also comprise 40 percent of the exchange’s own workforce the data showed. Such statistics illustrate the deepening involvement of Emirati women in capital allocation and financial markets.
Federal Tax Authority chairman Khalid bin Mulla stated that Emirati women have demonstrated their competence in the tax sector and contributed effectively to developing the tax system and enhancing its sustainability. The authority added that 330 Emirati women work in specialised and professional roles 60 in executive positions and 13 in supervisory and leadership positions. Its Women’s Committee launched a programme running until September 28 featuring initiatives that recognise distinguished national female figures in the tax sector. These efforts form part of a wider push to integrate women into high-impact economic positions.
UAE leaders including President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan praised Emirati women as pillars of national development during the celebrations that extend through the full month of September. The theme We Emerge Stronger and Better reflects both past gains and future ambitions with women now representing 24 percent of the Cabinet and holding 42 senior leadership roles across federal entities Arabian Business reported. Enrollment in higher education has grown dramatically with women comprising 52.6 percent of university graduates and 64 percent of those specialising in STEM fields. This educational foundation has translated into stronger participation across finance investment and trade domains.
Abu Dhabi Exports Office celebrated the occasion by hosting an exhibition for children of employees that showcased entrepreneurial ideas while recognising women’s role in strengthening the UAE’s economy and advancing trade ambitions. The event tied directly to export and investment goals that form part of national economic diversification strategies. Overall the combined data from government entities and exchanges point to measurable progress in women’s ownership of commercial assets and leadership within regulated sectors. Officials indicated that continued focus on such participation will further elevate the UAE’s position in regional markets.
