Dubai launches initiative to empower women in the emirate

The Women-Specific Legislation Lab aims to advance the role played by women in shaping the future direction of emirate

Mona Al Marri, chairperson of the Board of Directors of Dubai Women Establishment, is eager to further advance the role of women in the emirate. Wam

Authorities in Dubai have joined to launch an initiative to help advance the role of women in society.

Dubai Women Establishment has teamed up with the Supreme Legislation Committee of Dubai to present the Women-Specific Legislations Lab in a partnership that sets out to address issues related to female participation in UAE public life, including personal status law, safety, and women’s contribution to the economy.

Mona Al Marri, chairwoman of the board of Directors of Dubai Women Establishment, said the new body would work to enhance the legal framework to support the progress of women in Dubai, will monitor possible discrimination in legislation and propose alternatives, and will scrutinise the introduction of women-specific laws.

“We are pleased to forge a collaboration with Dubai’s Supreme Legislation Committee,” she said.

“This initiative translates the directives of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to enhance government performance by strengthening partnerships between government entities.”

The initiative reflected the commitment of Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Gender Balance Council and Dubai Women Establishment, and wife of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, to give women a greater say in the socio-economic future of the emirate.

“The Women-Specific Legislations Lab will contribute to the continued development of Dubai’s legislative structure in line with the UAE leadership’s commitment to empowering women and enhancing their participation in economic, political, diplomatic, social, cultural and legal spheres,” said Ahmed Saeed bin Meshar Al Muhairi, secretary general of the Supreme Legislation Committee of Dubai.

“We aim to support national efforts to ensure that gender balance is a well-established culture in Dubai, in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid.”