Abu Dhabi continues to take strong strides in promoting women’s participation in the economy. The Abu Dhabi Registration and Licensing Authority (ADRA), under the Department of Economic Development, announced that 5,930 new economic licences were issued to Emirati women between July 2024 and June 2025. This brings the total number of licences held by Emirati women entrepreneurs to 21,115 as of mid-2025—a notable indicator of growing female leadership in the business sector.
This steady increase in licence issuance reflects not only the expanding role of women in the economic landscape but also the success of targeted government initiatives that support women-led enterprises. The momentum aligns with the National Strategy for Empowerment of Emirati Women (2023–2031), a nationwide policy framework designed to elevate women’s roles across key sectors of development.
The strategy was launched under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak—President of the General Women’s Union, Chairwoman of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation “Mother of the Nation.” Her vision has been central to strengthening the role of Emirati women in vital sectors and ensuring their contributions are fully integrated into the UAE’s long-term development agenda.
Mohamed Munif Al Mansoori, Director-General of ADRA, highlighted that the rising number of licences granted to women entrepreneurs reflects the dynamism and flexibility of Abu Dhabi’s economy. He emphasized that women-led businesses have become a key engine of growth, adding that ADRA remains committed to fostering a business environment that supports creativity, compliance, and sustainable enterprise development.
During the one-year period, women entrepreneurs accounted for 18% of all new economic licences issued in Abu Dhabi, showcasing a clear shift toward greater gender inclusion in the business sphere.
The 5,930 new licences include a diverse mix of categories tailored to different needs:
- Mobdea licences totaled 2,768, representing 46.6% of all new licences for women. These licences enable women to launch home-based businesses across more than 50 activities without the need for a physical office.
- Tajer Abu Dhabi licences accounted for 1,830 licences (30%), supporting women interested in trade and commercial activities.
- Standard economic licences amounted to 788.
- Freelance licences reached 246, allowing Emirati nationals and residents to offer services in over 100 fields at low cost—making them ideal for professionals in knowledge and creative sectors.
- Agricultural licences (39 issued) and industrial licences (12 issued) show an expanding interest among women in strategic sectors such as farming and manufacturing.
These figures highlight the growing diversity of economic activities led by Emirati women—from creative and professional services to agriculture and industry—underscoring the shift toward a more inclusive, knowledge-driven economy.
Looking ahead, ADRA affirms its commitment to enhancing transparency, reducing entry barriers, and streamlining business setup procedures. By continuing to support Emirati women through flexible and progressive licensing options, UAE is reinforcing its vision of building a balanced and diversified economy where every citizen has the opportunity to lead, create, and thrive.
