Dubai – 6 October 2026
Women’s leadership in family businesses was the focus of a regional business roundtable held at Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) on 5 October.
Organised by the DIFC Family Wealth Centre (DFWC) in collaboration with the Arab International Women’s Forum (AIWF), the Women-Led Family Business in the Global Economy roundtable brought together business leaders to discuss the changing role of women in family-owned enterprises across the region.
Discussions explored how greater participation by women in family business leadership and governance can support stronger decision-making, innovation and long-term business resilience. Speakers also looked at succession planning, developing the next generation of leaders and how family businesses can respond to changes in the global economy, including the growing impact of artificial intelligence.
The event also marked AIWF’s 25th anniversary programme and highlighted the organisation’s long-standing work supporting women’s leadership across the region.
A key development from the event was the launch of the Women in Family Leadership and Governance Programme, introduced by DFWC in collaboration with Hawkamah and AIWF. The programme aims to encourage greater participation of women in family and corporate boards through education, mentorship, peer engagement and practical governance knowledge.
The initiative forms part of DFWC’s wider work supporting family enterprises with governance, succession planning and structures designed to help businesses and wealth transition successfully across generations.
With family businesses playing a significant role in the Gulf economy, the discussions at DIFC highlighted the growing importance of inclusive leadership and preparing the next generation to contribute to the future of family enterprises.
Source: DIFC News
