Emirati Women Leading Innovation In The Industrial Sector At MIITE 2025

Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX), part of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), recently hosted a panel discussion titled "Makers, Innovators, and Game Changers: Emirati Women Shaping the Industrial Sector." This event was part of the fourth edition of Make it in the Emirates 2025. It highlighted the significant role of Emirati women in industry, aligning with the UAE's goals for economic diversification and enhancing export competitiveness.

The panel featured prominent Emirati women leaders from various industrial sectors. Participants included Dr. Alyazia Al Kuwaiti from Mubadala, Fatima Al Hammadi from KEZAD Group, Yasmin Al Enazi from Maxbyte Technologies, Mariam Al Jaberi from Strata Manufacturing, and Khuloud Al Nuaimi from Emirates Food Industries. Rawdha AlMeraikhi moderated the session, focusing on their professional journeys and achievements.

Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD, emphasised the importance of empowering Emirati women in industry. He stated that it is both a national responsibility and a strategic priority for sustainable economic growth. "Empowering Emirati women in the industrial sector is both a national responsibility and a strategic priority for sustainable economic growth," he said.

The discussion explored how ADEX supports this empowerment by offering flexible financing tools and strategic guidance to connect national manufacturers to global markets. The aim is to unlock new growth avenues while ensuring women continue to drive transformation and global competitiveness.

The session showcased inspiring stories of Emirati women contributing to national ambitions and elevating the UAE's global industrial status. It highlighted their roles across strategic manufacturing sectors and shared their challenges and opportunities. The unwavering support from UAE leadership was noted as pivotal in their rise to prominent positions.

Key themes included empowering national talent, inspiring youth to pursue industrial careers, and leveraging innovation and technology in manufacturing's future. These discussions underscored the importance of fostering an inclusive environment where women can thrive.

Recommendations for Growth

The panel concluded with recommendations reinforcing institutions like ADEX's role in promoting inclusive, export-led growth. Suggestions included financial solutions for Emirati companies to boost global competitiveness and embedding gender equality into industrial policies. Promoting collaboration with women-led enterprises regionally and internationally was also highlighted.

These efforts aim to create sustainable growth pathways while expanding Emirati women's global influence. By supporting these initiatives, the UAE seeks to inspire future generations and ensure continued progress in its industrial sector.

With inputs from WAM