Dubai School of Government hosts 50 CEOs to discuss gender leadership

The business leaders exchanged ideas and discussed issues of gender leadership, as well as women's role in business and the larger community.

Dr Tarik Yousef, Dean of Dubai School of Government, addressed the CEOs, saying:

"The UAE has set a precedent as one of the most progressive countries in facilitating women's empowerment. We have women leaders in both the public and private sectors who have not only set the benchmark for the Emirati women, but also for the entire the Arab world."

"These are role models in the Arab world who are redefining the power dynamics and effectively balancing the gender leadership equation. At DSG, we are very keen to understand this process and to continue promoting increased women's participation in the government and civil society."

James Ellis, Dean of the Marshall School of Business at the University of Southern California and head of the CEO delegation, said: "We are delighted to visit Dubai and interact with the faculty and staff at DSG. We could see for ourselves the marvelous progress the UAE and Dubai have achieved in business and leadership, and we are particularly impressed with the role women play in this part of the world, certainly defying stereotypes.

"Women have a lot to contribute to the society, and it is heartening to note the positive attitude of the leadership in the UAE that has aggressively pioneered gender-equality initiatives."

The delegates were given a guided tour of the DSG campus, during which they met with the faculty members. Dr. May Al-Dabbagh, Director of the School's Gender and Public Policy research initiative, outlined the initiative's objectives and activities. Lara Setrakian of ABC News also addressed the delegation.

The Chief Executives Organization members are current or former chief executives who represent leading businesses around the world. The organization aims to connect global leaders who value deep caring friendships through intimate, powerful experiences and relevant, enriching programs.

Established in 2005 in cooperation with the Harvard Kennedy School, the Dubai School of Government is committed to the creation of knowledge, the dissemination of global best practices and the training of policy makers in the Arab world. The school is focused on capacity building and conducts various programs that seek to promote good governance through enhancing the region's capacity for effective public policy.