Women continue to shape the UAE’s workforce landscape

As the UAE’s economy continues to evolve, one shift is becoming increasingly clear—women are playing a far more central role in shaping the country’s workforce than ever before.

Recent labour market data highlights the growing and sustained contribution of women across key sectors, particularly in areas critical to national development such as education and healthcare. UAE economy the growing and sustained contribution of women across key sectors.

According to figures released by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, women accounted for nearly 75% of the workforce in education and more than 66% in healthcare roles in 2025. The data further shows that women held approximately 74% of jobs in education and 66% in healthcare, underscoring their dominant presence in these essential sectors.

However, their contribution is no longer limited to traditional roles. Skilled employment across the economy rose by 6.3%, driven by expanding opportunities, improved qualifications and rising demand for specialised expertise. Notably, nearly 45% of female workers are now classified as skilled professionals, reflecting a broader shift in workforce dynamics.

The change is also visible in technology-driven sectors. Women occupied around 37% of information technology roles, indicating a steady increase in participation in future-focused and technical industries.

At the same time, the number of registered establishments grew by approximately 8%, supporting overall workforce expansion and strengthening the private sector’s role in driving productivity and job creation.

Demographics continue to play a key role, with nearly 55% of the workforce comprising young professionals. This has helped maintain a labour market that remains flexible and responsive to shifts in both the economy and technology.

Progress is also evident at the leadership level. Women now hold 17.4% of senior leadership positions, including roles such as corporate managers, executives and policymakers. In the private sector, female participation has increased by 36% year-on-year, signalling gradual but meaningful progress in representation at the top.

While challenges remain, the data points to a clear trajectory: women are not just participating in the UAE’s workforce—they are actively shaping its future.