Women Represent 15.8% Of Board Seats In UAE Financial Sector, Surpassing National Average

A recent study by Heriot-Watt University, in collaboration with Grant Thornton, highlights that women hold 85 board positions in the UAE's financial services sector. This accounts for 15.8% of the total, surpassing the national average of 14.8%, as per the 2025 GCC Board Gender Index. The report underscores the financial sector's progress in gender diversity compared to other industries.

The "Discovery Series 2025: Women Transforming Financial Services" report is grounded on an analysis of data from the 2025 financial year. It examines 73 listed companies and covers 539 board members across Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, Dubai Financial Market, and Nasdaq Dubai. Despite advancements, eight companies still lack female board members, highlighting ongoing gender balance challenges.

In terms of leadership roles, only three out of 49 companies have a woman serving as Chief Risk Officer, representing just 6%. Additionally, six companies have women as Heads of Internal Audit, making up 10%. These figures indicate a need to enhance women's access to governance-related roles.

Hisham Farouk, CEO of Grant Thornton UAE, emphasised that the UAE is committed to building an advanced economy through innovation and smart finance. He stated that empowering women in boards and senior roles strengthens the financial ecosystem. "The Discovery Series has become a practical reference for measuring progress and guiding supportive policies," he noted.

Professor Heather McGregor, Provost and Vice Principal of Heriot-Watt University Dubai, explained that the report aims to provide an evidence-based view of women's leadership in financial institutions. It also highlights their role in governance, risk management, and institutional reform. The data serves as a crucial reference for policy development to boost women's representation in senior leadership positions.

The report aligns with the UAE's efforts to promote gender balance and foster a diverse and sustainable economy. By presenting detailed insights into women's participation in financial services, it supports initiatives aimed at increasing female representation in leadership roles.

With inputs from WAM