The proportion of women occupying corporate board positions within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) reached 6.8% at the beginning of 2025, an increase from 5.2% the previous year. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) led this advancement with 14.8%, according to the latest GCC Board Gender Index Report produced by Heriot-Watt University and Aurora50.
This report, in its second edition, represents the sole cross-GCC analysis monitoring female representation on the boards of publicly traded companies.
It documented double-digit growth across all GCC nations since 2024, drawing on data from 729 listed companies and a total of 5,535 board seats as of January 2025.
Performance of GCC Countries in the Board Gender Index Report
The UAE demonstrated the most notable performance, with women holding 14.8% of board seats (185 out of 1,248), marking an increase from 10.8% the prior year—a rise of 37%.
Bahrain followed with 8.5%, surpassing Oman, which stood at 6.6%. Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar reported 5.5%, 2.9%, and 2.8% respectively.
“When Aurora50 was established in 2020 with the ambition of achieving gender parity on corporate boards, only 3.5% of board seats in the UAE were occupied by women,” remarked Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, director of Aurora50. “As we celebrate our fifth anniversary, it is encouraging to observe that this figure has increased more than four times, approaching 7% across the region.”
The results highlight a growing commitment to gender inclusion within GCC boardrooms, bolstered by government initiatives and collaborations between the public and private sectors.
“Monitoring this advancement, as done by the GCC Board Gender Index, is crucial for developing a robust pipeline of female talent across all levels,” added Sheikha Shamma.
The report emphasizes the importance of data transparency and cooperative efforts in achieving long-term gender parity.
Heriot-Watt University Dubai and Aurora50 have pledged to update and release the index annually through at least 2027, alongside plans for a fully searchable database and further research on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
Professor Dame Heather McGregor, provost and vice principal of Heriot-Watt University Dubai, stated: “The advancements we are witnessing are promising; the year-on-year increase in female board representation indicates genuine momentum.
“While much work lies ahead, the UAE has made significant strides, marking a vital move towards achieving gender parity on boards.”
The complete report can be accessed on the website of Heriot-Watt University Dubai.