In a landmark move to promote gender equality in the workplace, the UAE Gender Balance Council unveiled the Gender Equality Acceleration Pledge on the opening day of the Global Women’s Forum Dubai 2024.
The pledge aims to accelerate women's representation in leadership roles across the UAE's private sector, with a clear goal of ensuring 30% of middle and senior management positions are held by women by 2028.
Seven leading UAE organizations signed the pledge, including ADNOC, Al-Futtaim IKEA, Emirates NBD, and Mediclinic Middle East. Signatories commit to fostering gender equality through initiatives such as equal pay, gender-equitable recruitment, mentorship programs, and bias elimination.
Yaser Almazrouei, Executive Director at ADNOC, stated,
“Our commitment to gender diversity is a strategic priority that strengthens our business and promotes sustainability in the energy sector.”
Vinod Jayan of Al-Futtaim IKEA added,
“With 31% of our workforce being women, this pledge is a significant step toward achieving 30% women’s representation in senior roles by 2028.”
Dr. Yasar Jarrar of the Posterity Institute emphasized the importance of this pledge, calling it a crucial milestone for advancing gender equity and fostering inclusive growth.
“This initiative represents a forward-looking movement that will redefine organizational cultures and close gender gaps,”
he said.
Her Excellency Mona Al Marri, Vice President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, highlighted the transformative power of such commitments, stating,
“True gender equality is essential for innovation, progress, and sustainable development. Together, we can create an inclusive and equitable future.”
The pledge aligns with the UAE’s broader efforts to enhance gender equality, including the 2018 Equal Pay Law, and positions the country as a global leader in advancing women’s empowerment in the workforce.
News Source: Dubai Media Office
