Uncovering multi-level barriers and enablers to women’s career development in the UAE -

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to identify the multi-level barriers and enablers to women’s career development in the UAE. In addition to a thorough literature review, this paper draws on data from 12 structured in-depth interviews conducted with Emirati women who are working in both public and private sector. All the participants have been recruited by email or via LinkedIn. Emails and LinkedIn profiles were collected through public platforms available on the Internet and on different blogs and forums. Once collected, an introductory message was sent to the participants. The communication explained to them the objective of this study. Debriefing will be provided to all the participants, and results of the research will be presented upon request once the study is completed. A preliminary literature review suggests that cultural, religious and social norms have set the position of women in the UAE society and affects directly, or indirectly the career development of the Emirati women. Furthermore, the UAE’s government often tries to generate policies and initiatives to encourage and help Emirati women in their carriers, specifically with their career development. On a meso level several private sector companies encourage Emiratisation via wage subsidies, wage restraint for government employees, charges as well as quotas on expatriate labor, and employment targets for UAE nationals. Flexible work arrangements policy is one of the widespread policies adopted by several companies across the UAE. These implications affect the perception of the Emirati women on an individual level where we see more and more women breaking the traditional view that women are homemakers and participating and excelling in the workforce.