Gender Roles

Although Emirati society has historically been patriarchal, the UAE supports gender equality and upholds equal rights for both sexes. Women are given the same legal standing, rights to employment and education, title claims, and the ability to inherit property. The UAE are a leading nation in the area for equality, according to the 2016 World Economic Forum.

In the workforce today, women hold significantly more power. This applies to fields that were formerly controlled by men, such as the military, business, and government. All educational institutions were rigorously separated up until recently, but co-education is now gradually being implemented. More than 70% of women choose to pursue higher education, with many choosing to major in STEM fields including science, technology, engineering, and math.

However, there is still considerable inequality even though the government has made it clear that it supports gender equality. Married women are compelled by law to follow their husbands and are unable to obtain paid job without his approval. There is currently no comprehensive law regulating domestic abuse against women, despite significant demand from numerous women's organizations.