Top 20 Arab Women in Government

As we approach International Women's Day, we recognize the 20 most impactful women in leading roles across government institutions, excluding ministerial and parliamentary positions. These women are shaping policies, driving initiatives, and contributing to the advancement of their nations.

Women’s Role in Government Institutions

In the U.A.E., women play a significant role in public service, filling two-thirds of government jobs. Of these, 30% hold leadership roles, while 15% occupy technical and academic positions. The U.A.E.’s Gender Balance Council Strategy 2026 aims to bridge the gender gap across sectors, ensuring greater representation in decision-making roles. A recent milestone was achieved in December 2024, when Syria appointed Maysaa Sabreen as the first woman to head its Central Bank.

From diplomacy and ambassadorship to leadership in culture, technology, media, and environmental sectors, Arab women continue to make profound contributions. Emirati women lead this list with 11 entries, followed by Saudi and Egyptian women with four and three entries, respectively.

The Role of Dubai in Women’s Empowerment

Dubai has been at the forefront of women’s empowerment, implementing progressive policies that promote gender inclusion in government and business sectors. The emirate has introduced initiatives such as the Dubai Women Establishment, which supports women’s professional growth, and the Dubai Future Council for Women, which fosters innovation-driven female leadership. Furthermore, the Dubai Government Human Resources Department has worked to enhance female participation in senior government positions, ensuring that women play a key role in shaping the city’s future.

Dubai has also launched the Dubai Business Women Council, which provides networking opportunities, mentorship, and funding programs to encourage women entrepreneurs. Additionally, the city’s leadership has committed to increasing female representation in decision-making roles, with policies that support gender equality in both public and private sectors.

The Dubai Women’s Establishment, under the directives of the UAE leadership, has been instrumental in launching policies that ensure work-life balance, equal pay, and leadership development programs. These efforts contribute significantly to making Dubai a model city for gender inclusivity in governance and the economy.

Recognizing the Top 20 Arab Women in Government

The following women have made a significant impact in government institutions across the Arab world:

1. Mona Al Marri (U.A.E.) – Director General of Dubai Media Office

2. Huda Al Hashimi (U.A.E.) – Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Strategic Affairs

3. Maryam Al Hammadi (U.A.E.) – Secretary General of the UAE Cabinet

4. Shamma Al Mazrui (U.A.E.) – Chairwoman of the UAE Youth Council

5. Sarah Al Amiri (U.A.E.) – Chairwoman of the UAE Space Agency

6. Hessa Buhumaid (U.A.E.) – Director General of Community Development Authority

7. Reem Al Hashimy (U.A.E.) – Managing Director of Expo 2020 Dubai

8. Aisha Bin Bishr (U.A.E.) – Former Director General of Smart Dubai

9. Noura Al Kaabi (U.A.E.) – Chairwoman of Abu Dhabi Media Company

10. Latifa Al Abbar (U.A.E.) – Director General of Government Accelerators Program

11. Maysaa Sabreen (Syria) – Governor of the Central Bank of Syria

12. Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud (Saudi Arabia) – Saudi Ambassador to the U.S.

13. Fatimah Baeshen (Saudi Arabia) – Former Spokesperson for the Saudi Embassy in Washington

14. Dr. Hanan Balkhy (Saudi Arabia) – Assistant Director General of WHO

15. Lama Al Sulaiman (Saudi Arabia) – Vice Chair of Jeddah Chamber of Commerce

16. Neveen El Tahri (Egypt) – Chairperson of Delta Shield for Investment

17. Rania Al Mashat (Egypt) – International Cooperation Expert

18. Heba Shahein (Egypt) – Advisor to the Egyptian Cabinet

19. Asma Al Assad (Syria) – Head of Syrian Development Trust

20. Dr. Amal Al Qubaisi (U.A.E.) – Former Speaker of the Federal National Council

Conclusion

As Arab nations continue their progress in gender equality, women in government institutions remain at the forefront of change. With strong representation from the U.A.E., Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, this list showcases the region’s commitment to empowering women in leadership roles. Dubai, in particular, has set an example through its initiatives aimed at fostering female leadership.

These 20 remarkable women are not only breaking barriers but also paving the way for future generations to lead and shape the Arab world’s governance and policymaking landscape.