Shamsa Saleh: Woman Who’s Redefining Leadership and Opportunity for Women in Dubai

At the Dubai Women Establishment, Shamsa Saleh is the chief executive officer of that initiative-an avid and dynamic leader passionate about shaping a different tomorrow for women not only within Dubai but throughout the wide Middle East. From pushing harder toward gender equality to pioneering pivotal initiatives like the Arab Women Leadership Forum, Saleh is not talking about but creating change. Her leadership has caused an enabling process for women to rise in the business world in the region by creating all possible opportunities and support to break barriers. With the UAE striding ahead to achieve gender balance, Shamsa Saleh leads from the front to usher in lasting change for women across every section of society.

The journey of Shamsa Saleh is a demonstration of commitment, perseverance, and vision. She has been the chief executive of the Dubai Women Establishment since 2011 and has grown to become a driving force behind Dubai’s efforts toward gender equality and women’s empowerment. Saleh joined the DWE in 2008 and rose through the ranks in record time, proving to be a leader committed to fostering change. Today, she stands at the helm, shaping policies and programs that create a robust environment for women to excel in every sphere of life.

Under the leadership of Saleh, DWE has developed an integrated framework for women’s empowerment in social, economic, and political participation. She has provided a platform for women across the region to come together, learn, and lead through the creation of such impactful initiatives as the Arab Women Leadership Forum. These programs would further enable them to take up leadership positions, pursue successful careers, and break through traditional gender barriers.

Shamsa Saleh’s vision for a gender-balanced workforce is in line with the UAE’s strategic goals. The UAE has been a pioneer in the Middle East in terms of women’s rights support, and the government has initiated various programs to improve gender equality. At the helm of Dubai Women Establishment, Saleh has shouldered the mantle of responsibility for translating these policies into practice so they do not just exist on paper but bring a difference into the lives of women.

She is firmly convinced that such organizations as DWE and the UAE Gender Balance Council create an environment in which women will feel motivated toward achieving their career aspirations. Women need the opportunities and support to thrive in the business world,” says Saleh, underscoring the need for structural support beyond simple equality. In his strategic building of platforms, resources, and networking, he empowers the women to take ownership of their careers while facilitating leadership at every level.

The most important thing in Saleh’s work is undoubtedly the contribution she has been able to make toward changing the face of business for women in Dubai. Grappling with the special challenges women face in a commercial environment, such as combining work and family commitments, overcoming glass ceilings, and landing top jobs, Saleh works toward a future wherein women will have equal representation on company boards and in leadership.

Through its programs and collaborations with local and international organizations, Saleh empowers women to develop entrepreneurial skills, create networks, and obtain access to funding, which was previously unavailable. She has also fought for the integration of women into key decision-making positions in all spheres and levels, including the highest level.

One of the high points of Saleh’s leadership is her inclusivity. She is one of those who has gone further in ensuring a complete integration of different ethnicities, backgrounds, and cultures in the workplace. While creating an environment of mutual cooperation and equal opportunity for all, she paves the path for a secure, inclusive future for all women in Dubai. For Saleh, collaboration meant working with businesses, governments, and international organizations to amplify women’s voices. She has managed to bring all the stakeholders from different sectors together for a collective commitment to support women’s rights and pave the way for a future where gender would no longer be an obstacle to success.

With a continued focus on expanding women’s participation in the workforce and offering them leadership opportunities, she is laying the groundwork for future generations of women to not only participate in the economy but drive it forward.