ADRA issues 5,930 new economic licences to women entrepreneurs

The Abu Dhabi Registration and Licensing Authority (ADRA), the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development’s(ADDED) arm to develop and regulate the business sector, has announced the issuance of 5,930 new economic licences to Emirati women entrepreneurs in a year, reaching 21,115 licences by end of June 2025, showcasing the effectiveness of initiatives to empower UAE women to further enhance their role in accelerating economic growth and diversification.

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The increase reflects the growing impact of Emirati women in the business sector and success of ADDED's efforts to foster an inclusive entrepreneurship ecosystem, aligning with the National Strategy for Empowerment of Emirati Women (2023-2031), launched by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak “The Mother of the Nation”, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union (GWU), President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation (FDF).

The strategy aims to empower women to lead and contribute across priority sectors of the national economy.

Mohamed Munif Al Mansoori, Director-General of ADRA, said, “The rising number of licences issued to Emirati women reflects the strength, resilience, and vitality of our economy as well as the success of ADRA's strategy to support inclusive entrepreneurship ecosystem. We are committed to ensuring a business environment that enables Emirati women to innovate and play a pivotal role in Abu Dhabi’s socioeconomic development.