UAE Gender Balance Council Hosts Workshop On Equal Pay For Work Of Equal Value To Enhance Women's Economic Participation

The UAE Gender Balance Council, in partnership with the World Bank, recently hosted a workshop titled "Equal Pay for Work of Equal Value." This event aimed to promote gender pay equity across various sectors. The workshop gathered senior government officials, private sector leaders, and global experts to discuss strategies for closing gender pay gaps.

H.H. Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum emphasised the UAE's commitment to gender equality. She stated, "From the earliest days of our nation, the leadership of the UAE has recognised the essential role of women in shaping our development and future. The UAE was the first country in the region to issue legislation on equal pay between men and women in the public sector in 2019, followed by a 2020 law to ensure equal pay for work of equal value in the private sector."

The workshop provided practical tools for employers to evaluate roles objectively and ensure fair compensation. It also encouraged continuous improvement in workplace practices. The UAE Gender Balance Centre of Excellence and Knowledge Exchange played a crucial role in facilitating these discussions.

Mona Al Marri, Vice President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, highlighted the importance of this initiative. She said, "The UAE Gender Balance Centre of Excellence and Knowledge Exchange aims to promote gender pay equity by advancing innovation and global knowledge sharing. The gender pay equity workshop represents another important step in turning the core values of gender balance into tangible progress."

During the event, private sector leaders shared insights and best practices that are helping reduce pay disparities within their organisations. These discussions aimed to set new benchmarks for inclusive workplaces that offer fair compensation and equal opportunities.

Mouza Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General of the UAE Gender Balance Council, stressed that gender balance is integral to national vision. She noted that achieving gender pay equity requires effective systems and ongoing commitment across all sectors.

Collaborative Efforts for Economic Growth

The workshop followed a dialogue during the "GCC Knowledge Exchange Workshop" held on June 17-18. Policymakers from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and other regions discussed strategies for enhancing women's economic empowerment.

Iva Hamel from the World Bank remarked on implementing pay equity as vital for competitive labour markets. "Implementing pay equity is crucial for creating fair and competitive labour markets," she said.

The event underscored collaboration between public and private sectors as essential for building strong communities and a competitive economy. Recognising contributions regardless of gender is key to this effort.

The workshop served as a platform to explore legal frameworks, job evaluation methodologies, and mechanisms addressing gender pay gaps. It aimed at empowering employers with resources to promote equitable workplaces.

The UAE's legislative efforts have earned it top rankings in regional reports on women’s rights. By fostering discussions among government officials, private sector leaders, and global experts, they aim to advance national priorities impacting economic growth.

With inputs from WAM