At least 18 expatriates have been named among the 100 most influential women in the UAE and the rest of the Arab world, proving that the female gender can make huge career strides while working overseas.
The Forbes’ Most Influential Women for the Middle East 2018 has recognized for the first time successful expat females who have scaled heights in their jobs, and among those recognized are from India, Malaysia, United Kingdom, France, Germany , Australia, United States and South Africa.
Forbes’ latest recognition pays tribute to 100 women who either work for major companies or run their own business, a strong indication that women have broken the proverbial glass ceiling and advanced across industries, including oil and gas, banking, automobiles and fintech. Most of the women are leaders in the organisations, occupying positions like CEO, CFO and president.
Ten other females heading government departments across the region have also been recognized.
“The region is undergoing a paradigm shift with women-led businesses dominating major sectors. Countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia have showcased most gender diverse cabinets and the landscape is ever evolving,” said Khuloud Al Omian, editor-in-chief of Forbes Middle East.
Out of the 18 expatriates who made it to the list, 16 of them are based in the UAE.
At the top of the list of expat women is UAE-based Renuka Jagtiani, the Indian CEO of retail conglomerate Landmark Group. Jagtiani was named the third most influential woman in the region.