DP World marks International Women's Day

More than 150 women employees attended an all-day event to mark the occasion under the theme of "Work-Life Balance" at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai. International Women's Day is celebrated each year on March 8 to honour the economic, social and political achievements of women everywhere and also to remember the issues and challenges that continue to impact women around the world.

Mohammed Al Muallem, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, DP World, UAE Region, said, "DP World, UAE Region's support for women in the work place is inspired by the UAE leadership's commitment to empowering women and expanding their role in society since the Federation was formed in 1971. We proactively support a work culture that helps young Emirati women learn professional skills and assume important leadership positions. International Women's Day is an opportunity to bring our women employees together to share their experiences, and to underline our commitment to their professional development."

Alya Al Mehairi, Manager, Performance Management, DP World, UAE Region, said, "The working woman today has a tough balancing act between her office and home, trying not to sacrifice one for the other. This year's theme of 'Work Life Balance' recognises this. Over the years women have contributed immensely to the growth of DP World and International Women's Day is an occasion to commend their role. We congratulate all our female colleagues on their achievements."

Women hold 66% of public sector posts in the UAE and 30% of senior decision-making positions in the government sector (according to Emirates News Agency WAM). Emirati women occupy high-profile positions in all sectors of society, and the UAE is ranked 38th among 187 countries in the UN Development Programme's Gender-related Development Index for 2011. This is attributed to substantial enrolment of women in education. Over 70% of university graduates in the UAE are women, one of the highest proportions worldwide.