Rising Role of Emirati Businesswomen
More than 2,875 Emirati businesswomen joined the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ADCCI) during the first half of 2025. This increase highlights both the growing role of Emirati women in the national economy and the supportive environment for female entrepreneurship in the emirate.
Chamber data reveals that Mobdea licences represented the largest share, with 1,352 issued in six months. This accounted for 47% of total new members, showing strong demand for creative and home-based businesses. Additionally, 891 Tajer Abu Dhabi memberships, or 30% of the total, reflected rising interest in e-commerce and individual projects.
Normal economic licences reached 406, while “Branch” licences amounted to 94. These figures indicate that many women are expanding existing ventures or opening new branches. Freelance licences, which totaled 86, demonstrated increasing opportunities for independent work and specialised skills.
Emirati women are actively contributing to commerce, services, creative industries, agriculture, and industry. This variety underlines their growing influence in building a diverse and sustainable economy.
Institutional Support and Empowerment
This progress stems from the efforts of the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council, which operates under ADCCI. The Council provides training, financial support, advisory services, and networking opportunities. By doing so, it enables women to strengthen their businesses and expand into new markets.
Her Excellency Asma Al Fahim, Chairperson of the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council, said: “These results reflect Abu Dhabi’s sustained efforts to enhance its economic competitiveness through a clear vision to empower women and increase their participation in vital sectors. The positive indicators demonstrate the important role played by Abu Dhabi Chamber and its affiliated bodies, especially the Businesswomen Council, in building a more inclusive and diverse economy through the empowerment of national talent, especially Emirati women, and by considering them as essential partners in the development process.
“At the Abu Dhabi Chamber, we believe it is essential to collaborate closely with the private sector and specialised councils to create a supportive and dynamic business environment for female entrepreneurs. We are committed to offering programs and services that align with their aspirations, reflecting the wise leadership’s vision of placing women’s economic empowerment at the heart of its priorities,” Her Excellency Asma Al Fahim added.
Building Sustainable Growth
The Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council continues to drive initiatives that strengthen the role of Emirati women in the economy. Its efforts include targeted training programmes, financing opportunities, advisory services, and interactive events. These initiatives are designed to support businesswomen at all stages, from startup through sustainable growth and expansion.
By combining institutional backing with entrepreneurial ambition, Abu Dhabi is shaping a future where women play a central role in economic development. This approach ensures greater diversity, sustainability, and competitiveness across multiple sectors.
