Women’s representation on boards in the UAE’s financial services sector has reached 15.8 percent, outpacing the national average and signalling continued progress in gender inclusion across one of the country’s most influential industries.
The findings come from a new report released by Heriot-Watt University in collaboration with Grant Thornton. The analysis reviewed 2025 financial-year data from 73 listed companies across the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, Dubai Financial Market, and Nasdaq Dubai, covering a total of 539 board members.
According to the study, women now hold 85 board seats in the financial sector. Despite this growth, eight companies still have no women on their boards, highlighting the ongoing need for balanced representation.
The report also examined women’s participation in key governance and oversight roles. Only three out of 49 companies have a woman serving as Chief Risk Officer, while six companies have a woman leading Internal Audit. Researchers noted that these figures reinforce the importance of expanding women’s access to senior decision-making positions tied to risk, governance, and institutional integrity.
Hisham Farouk, CEO of Grant Thornton UAE, said the UAE’s push toward an innovation-driven economy is strengthened by efforts to support women in leadership. He described the Discovery Series as an important tool for measuring progress and guiding future policy.
Professor Heather McGregor, Provost and Vice Principal of Heriot-Watt University Dubai, said the report aims to provide an evidence-backed view of women’s roles in shaping financial institutions. She added that the data serves as a valuable reference for developing policies that enhance gender balance and advance the UAE’s goals for a diverse and sustainable economy.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
