Increasing numbers of women in the top financial positions in the UAE are becoming one of the great shapers in driving the direction the corporate landscape will take considering the renewed commitment by the country to further diversify the economy, and to enhance gender equality at work. One of the last decade's most male bastions is the Chief Financial Officer role, which has been rapidly undergoing change with more women entering top financial positions in public and private sector organizations. The growing number of females in these positions over recent years depicts social transformation and the advancement of the UAE to try to make the business environment more inclusive. Today, a female CFO is recognized not only for technical skill in finance and accounting but also for a strategic vision, leadership, and the capacity to innovate in a fast-changing market. Women CFOs, surely, make all the difference in the country's financial and business landscape by spearheading innovation, corporate governance, and sustainable growth. They are one of the bright reflections of the UAE's efforts toward empowering women and fostering diversity in its business environment. The more women reach the top of jobs in finance, the more they will be poised to contribute to success, not only within organizations but also to a business environment in the region that is more inclusive, transparent, and resilient, paving the way for future generations of women leaders in the region.

"The future belongs to those who be­lieve in the beauty of their dreams and who work to­wards realizing them"

The role of female directors in corporate UAE has altered dramatically recently and reflects the overall commitment by the country towards gender equality, economic diversification, as well as empowerment of women in leadership positions. On the scale of corporate governance, while females are under-represented within senior executive and boardroom functions in the UAE, the same is observed generally. However, since the UAE continues to upgrade its economy and embrace innovations while presenting itself at the forefront of global business opportunities, women are increasingly being given leadership roles, especially at the director level within the corporate boards. This transformation signifies shifting attitudes on the roles of gender but also underlines growing recognition of new perspectives and skills women bring to the top executive role. women directors in the UAE are playing a critical role in shaping the future of business leadership in the country. Their contributions to corporate governance, innovation, and sustainable growth are reshaping industries and driving the UAE’s economic diversification. As gender parity in the corporate world continues to gain momentum, the influence of women in directorial positions will only grow, creating more inclusive and dynamic leadership that will drive the success of organizations and the broader economy. With continued support from both the public and private sectors, women directors in the UAE will help to build a more resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive business environment.

In this issue, the Women Entrepreneurs Review magazine spotlights ‘Women leaders from UAE special – 2024’, featuring leaders who are domineers of change in the corporate realm of the country. This list of ten leading and inspiring women is crafted by a team of CEOs, VCs, and the editorial board, delivering inspiring stories of their journey and the contributions & roles played by them in the creation and empowerment of an economically powerful nation.