NAMA Women Advancement is pushing for a fundamental shift in how UAE organisations approach gender equality, convening leaders from government and the private sector to transform internal Women Councils from advisory bodies into influential drivers of institutional change. The “Women Councils Connect” forum, held under NAMA’s Irtiqa initiative, focused on establishing clear governance models and measurable outcomes for these councils.
Quick Facts
- Forum held under NAMA’s “Irtiqa” initiative.
- Focused on governance and measurable workplace impact.
- Gathered government, semi-government, and private entities.
From Intent to Impact
While many institutions in the UAE express a commitment to gender equality, the challenge remains in converting that intent into consistent, measurable systems. The forum tackled this gap head-on, positioning Women Councils as crucial governance mechanisms that can embed gender-focused policies directly into an organisation’s core operations, from decision-making to leadership development.
Her Excellency Mariam Al Hammadi, Director General of NAMA Women Advancement, highlighted the issue: “Across institutions today, there is clear intent to advance gender equality. The challenge lies in translating how that intent is translated into systems that are consistent, measurable, and responsive to the realities of the workplace.”
She added, “Women Councils, when effectively structured, serve as a critical interface between employees and leadership—enabling organisations to identify gaps, inform policy, and monitor progress effectively.”
Benchmarking Council Effectiveness
Discussions at the event moved beyond theory, creating a platform for peer exchange and benchmarking among organisations with established councils and those looking to form them. Participants examined various governance models, accountability mechanisms, and strategies for aligning council mandates with broader organisational goals.
NAMA presented its Irtiqa framework during the forum, a structured approach designed to help organisations build or strengthen their councils. The framework provides practical tools, advisory support, and capacity-building programs to ensure these councils operate with clear purpose and deliver tangible results.
The sessions offered insights into varying levels of institutional maturity and identified key factors that determine a council’s effectiveness. The goal is to standardize a high-impact model that prevents these groups from remaining purely advisory.
A Strategic Shift in Corporate Governance
The forum underscored a growing recognition that effective Women Councils are more than just platforms for employee representation. Instead, they are becoming strategic assets that contribute to more informed decision-making and enhance long-term organisational resilience. By providing a direct channel for feedback and progress monitoring, these councils help companies adapt to evolving workforce expectations and policy environments.
About NAMA Women Advancement
NAMA Women Advancement is an institution that was founded under an Emiri Decree by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, and is chaired by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. Its mandate is to develop opportunities for women in the economic, professional, and social sectors.
Source: Zawya
