As we reflect on the achievements of Emirati women today, it is vital to shed light on the indelible impact they have on one of the most critical pillars of business, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). In Abu Dhabi, the SME ecosystem has been enriched by many innovative Emirati women, who have become key drivers of economic growth and progress for the nation.
For many years, Emirati women have been at the heart of Abu Dhabi’s entrepreneurial spirit. As our Emirate emerges as the fastest-growing startup ecosystem in the MENA region, the strength of our SME hub is fuelled by a robust support system that nurtures many of these inspiring Emirati entrepreneurs.
Economic impact of SMEs in Abu Dhabi
SMEs are the backbone of economic growth in Abu Dhabi, accounting for over 98 percent of businesses and employing over 46 percent of workforce in all sectors. Emirati women’s contributions to the SME sector are invaluable. They operate a diverse range of businesses, from technology startups to traditional crafts. Their businesses are crucial in driving the Emirate’s economic growth and diversification, enhancing our global competitiveness, and cultivating an inclusive business environment.
Abu Dhabi’s SME ecosystem is designed to foster an environment conducive to Emirati women’s success. Empowering Emirati entrepreneurs and supporting their aspirations is crucial for nurturing current and future generations of Emirati business owners. At the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), our dedication to empowering women is exemplified by the National Strategy for the Empowerment of Women in the UAE 2023-2031. Introduced by the Mother of the Nation, Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the strategy emphasises the development of entrepreneurial skillsets and nurturing business ambitions of young Emirati women, homemakers, and employees.
We proudly align our efforts with the national vision, ensuring that our activities amplify the role of Emirati women in Abu Dhabi’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and create an atmosphere favourable for their success.
Creating a thriving environment for Emirati women entrepreneurs
Beyond training programmes, our support for Emirati women is reflected in our innovative economic strategies. By strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position in the global markets, we simultaneously create new opportunities for Emirati women, enabling entrepreneurs to diversify and scale their businesses.
Fostering an ideal business destination in Abu Dhabi is also crucial to ensuring our SME hub continues to thrive and Emirati women remain key drivers of our growth. Our investment in infrastructure, development, and market access are designed to enhance Abu Dhabi’s business environment while seamlessly creating opportunities for Emirati entrepreneurs. By empowering women with access to resources, networks, and opportunities, we support individual business objectives and drive the broader economic progress of Abu Dhabi.
Creating an open and inclusive business environment is crucial to guarantee that our SME hub provides unique opportunities for all. By continuing to foster an environment where Emirati women entrepreneurs can thrive, we empower them to lead the way in shaping our economic landscape. Their innovation, resilience, and leadership are driving forces behind the success of one of the emirate’s most crucial business sectors, and foundational to our economic diversification efforts.
Mouza Obaid Al Nasri- acting CEO of Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development and Executive Director, SMEs Sector at Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED)
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