Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, DEWA, has said that Emirati women are the cornerstones of the country’s comprehensive development, thanks to the vision of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, which falls every year on the 8th March, Mr. Al Tayer said, "On International Women’s Day, whose theme this year is ‘Women in the Changing World of Work: Planet 50-50 by 2030,’ we feel proud of the UAE's achievements. The UAE has exceeded these targets as shown by our top global ranking in terms of treating women with respect and reducing the gender gap.

"During last month’s World Government Summit, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum revealed that 70 percent of UAE women are university graduates, 70 percent are employed in the government, and one-third of the Council of Ministers' members are women. His Highness noted that 50 percent of the Council members will be women in the near future," added Al Tayer.

"While we appreciate and acknowledge the effective role of women in building and developing society and serving the country and contributing to its development, we emphasise the key role that DEWA plays in empowering women in the workplace. We strive to provide an environment that enhances women’s participation in creativity and innovation.

"We also highlight their efforts, contributions, and achievements. DEWA currently employs 1,824 female staff in its operations, 468 of whom work in engineering and other technical positions. 78 percent of DEWA’s female workforce are Emirati Nationals. DEWA provides its female staff with a positive and inspiring work place, enabling them to achieve a healthy balance between their professional and social lives. This enables them to make use of their scientific and professional capabilities as active contributors towards the development of the UAE," he added.