The UAE Gender Balance Council has opened a nationwide survey inviting citizens and residents across all seven emirates to help shape the country's next gender balance strategy, spanning 2027 to 2031.
The initiative marks a significant step in broadening public participation in national policymaking.
The National Gender Balance Survey forms a core part of the strategy's development process, gathering firsthand insights from people of different ages, professions and life stages. Organisers say the responses will complement existing data and expert analysis rather than stand alone, feeding into a wider process of consultation and research.
Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the Council, said the new strategy should reflect the UAE's ambitions while keeping pace with global change and reinforcing the country's leadership on gender balance.
Council Vice President Mona Ghanem Al Marri said the strategy takes a forward-looking approach, focusing less on current conditions and more on preparing for shifts in the labour market, artificial intelligence, caregiving and quality of life. Secretary-General Mouza Al Ghuwais Al Suwaidi added that direct public input offers a dimension that statistics alone cannot capture.
The survey explores themes including economic participation, career development, financial security, social care and the impact of AI and technological change on future job opportunities. It is open to both men and women, covering UAE citizens and residents from varied sectors and backgrounds.
Taking under 10 minutes to complete, the survey is available in Arabic and English and guarantees participant anonymity. It can be accessed online at sapience.survey-research.net/GBC-Insta.
The exercise builds on the UAE's established record in gender equality policy, as authorities look to identify fresh priorities that support competitiveness, quality of life and long-term development.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
