Introduction
The entrepreneurial landscape in the UAE witnessed an inspiring transformation. In the first half of 2025, around 3,000 Emirati women entrepreneurs joined the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ADCCI). This milestone shows Abu Dhabi’s commitment to supporting female founders. It highlights the determination of Emirati women and the emirate’s vision for economic growth and inclusivity.
Empowering Emirati Women Entrepreneurs
According to the Abu Dhabi Chamber, 2,875 Emirati businesswomen officially became members during the first six months of 2025. This growth shows how women are turning their ideas into businesses, from small home projects to large businesses.
The largest proportion of new memberships came from Mobdea licences, which are especially for innovative, creative, and home-based business activities. More than 1,350 Emirati women chose to take these licences, proving the growing popularity of creative entrepreneurship. Another major contributor was the Tajer Abu Dhabi licence, which allows entrepreneurs to set up digital and e-commerce businesses without requiring physical office space. Nearly 900 Emirati women secured this licence, reflecting the country’s rapid shift toward online businesses and digital-first strategies.
Other types of licences, including economic licences, branch licences, and freelance permits, also attracted hundreds of women. This variety demonstrates how Emirati women are no longer limited to traditional sectors but are exploring more industries like technology, agriculture, services, design, and digital commerce.
Government Vision and Support
The UAE has recognized the importance of empowering women as central to its growth. Under Abu Dhabi’s Economic Vision 2030, which focuses on diversity and sustainability, women entrepreneurs are gaining greater access to resources, training, and finance.
The Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council, which operates under the Chamber,has played a key role in facilitating this shift. The Council organizes specialized training programs, advisory services, and networking events specifically for Emirati women. It also develops financing options and works with banks, accelerators, and the government to make sure that women-led businesses receive the attention and assistance they deserve.
Chairperson Asma Al Fahim has emphasized that these results are not accidental but the outcome of a clear strategic roadmap. She explained that empowering women is part of Abu Dhabi’s long-term vision of inclusive growth, positioning women as vital partners in shaping the economy of tomorrow.
Why Women Are Choosing Entrepreneurship
- Flexibility and independence are major things. Many women are using licences like Mobdea and Tajer Abu Dhabi to launch businesses from home or online, which allows them to balance family life with professional life .
- The digital economy is creating new opportunities. With rising demand for e-commerce, digital marketing, freelance work, and online services, women are taking opportunities to innovate in areas that were less open to them in the past.
- There is strong cultural and policy-level support. The UAE leadership has consistently prioritized gender equity, not only in education and employment but also in entrepreneurship. This can be seen in the increasing number of Emirati women who are being mentored, supported with government incentives, and awarded nationally and internationally.
Contribution to the Economy
The rise of women owned business is more than a symbolic achievement; it has real economic impact. By launching new businesses, By starting new businesses, Emirati women are creating employment, innovation, and adding to the non-oil economy. Their businesses lie across a variety of sectors retail, fashion, design, technology, agriculture, and services enabling the UAE to diversify beyond traditional sources of revenue.
Furthermore, female entrepreneurs often bring innovative solutions to market gaps, particularly in lifestyle, sustainability, and community-based services. Their active role is strengthening small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are already a backbone of Abu Dhabi’s economy.
The Role of Education and Next-Gen Skills
Another factor boosting this growth is the increasing number of young Emirati women who graduate with degrees in technology, business, and creative industries. The UAE’s investments in higher education and entrepreneurship-focused programs are women with skills that directly translate into successful ventures.
The Abu Dhabi Chamber has reported rising interest in sectors like digital media, artificial intelligence, e-commerce platforms, and eco-friendly solutions. These align with global trends and position Emirati women as future leaders in innovative industries.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the numbers are aspiring, women entrepreneurs still face challenges such as competition in markets, scaling beyond small ventures, and accessing global networks. However, initiatives like the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council are helping to bridge these gaps by offering mentorship, connecting women to investors, and facilitating entry into international trade fairs.
Additionally, the government’s focus on ease of doing business, simplified licensing, and low-cost digital platforms means that Emirati women now have fewer barriers to entry than ever before. The combination of opportunity, policy, and determination creates a perfect ecosystem for women to thrive.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Women in Abu Dhabi’s Business Landscape
If nearly 3,000 Emirati women could join the Abu Dhabi Chamber in just six months, the trend for the full year looks even more promising. Experts predict that the total number may surpass 5,000 new memberships by the end of 2025, a clear sign that women will continue to be one of the fastest-growing entrepreneurial segments.
This growth will likely reshape Abu Dhabi’s business ecosystem. With more women entering e-commerce, creative industries, and freelance work, the emirate is positioning itself as a hub for inclusive innovation. The increasing diversity of entrepreneurs also strengthens Abu Dhabi’s resilience, making it better prepared for global economic changes.
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References
FAQs
1. How many Emirati women joined the Abu Dhabi Chamber in 2025?
Around 3,000 women entrepreneurs became members in the first half of 2025.
2. Why is this milestone important?
It highlights women’s growing role in business and Abu Dhabi’s commitment to inclusivity.
3. What is the Mobdea licence?
A licence for home-based and creative businesses, popular among Emirati women.
4. What is the Tajer Abu Dhabi licence?
A digital-first licence that lets entrepreneurs start e-commerce without office space.
5. Which sectors are women entrepreneurs entering?
Technology, fashion, design, agriculture, services, and e-commerce.
