Abu Dhabi has taken another important step in supporting women and strengthening its economy. The Abu Dhabi Registration and Licensing Authority (ADRA), which works under the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), has announced that 5,930 new economic licences were issued to Emirati women entrepreneurs in just one year. This brings the total number of licences owned by Emirati women to 21,115 by the end of June 2025.

This achievement shows how strong and determined Emirati women have become in building businesses. It also proves that government initiatives to empower women are working well and giving them the right tools to play an even bigger role in economic growth and diversification.

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Supporting the National Vision

The growth in licences for women entrepreneurs is closely linked to the National Strategy for Empowerment of Emirati Women (2023–2031). This strategy was launched by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, lovingly known as The Mother of the Nation. She is also the Chairwoman of the General Women's Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation.

The strategy sets out a clear goal: to make sure Emirati women are empowered, skilled, and able to take leadership roles in important sectors of the national economy. By giving women equal chances in the business world, Abu Dhabi is not only helping them but also creating a stronger and more inclusive economy for the future.

Statement from ADRA’s Director General

His Excellency Mohamed Munif Al Mansoori, Director General of ADRA, explained why this progress is so important. He said:

• “The growing number of licences issued to Emirati women shows the strength, resilience, and energy of our economy. It also reflects the success of ADRA’s efforts to create a fair and supportive business system.”

He added that Emirati women are a key part of society and a major force in shaping Abu Dhabi’s future. From July 2024 to June 2025, the new licences given to women made up 18% of all new economic licences in the emirate. This means that nearly one out of every five new businesses was started by a woman.

According to him, ADRA will continue to provide a transparent and reliable system for licensing. This ensures that women can focus on growing their businesses, while also staying fully compliant with regulations.

Different Types of Licences Issued

The 5,930 new licences were not all the same. They covered a wide variety of sectors and business types, making it easier for women to choose the licence that fits their skills and interests.

Here is the detailed breakdown:

1. Mobdea Licence – 2,768 licences (46.6%)

   • The Mobdea licence is one of the most popular choices for women. It allows them to start businesses in more than 50 different activities without the need for a physical office.

   • This makes it easier and less expensive for women to turn their talents and ideas into successful ventures. For example, women can use this licence to run creative projects, online services, or skill-based businesses from home.

2. Tajer Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi Trader) Licence – 1,830 licences (30%)

   • This licence is designed for traders and small business owners. It allows Emirati women to run different kinds of commercial activities easily.

   • The large number of Tajer licences shows that women are not only entering traditional roles but also exploring new business opportunities in trade and retail.

3. Standard Economic Licences – 788 licences

   • These licences cover more traditional forms of businesses that may require a physical presence, such as shops, services, and small industries.

4. Freelance Licences – 246 licences

   • Freelance licences are becoming more popular among Emirati women, as they give professionals the chance to work independently in more than 100 different economic activities.

   • This is perfect for women who have specialised skills in areas like design, consultancy, IT, or education, and want to work flexibly at a low cost.

5. Agricultural (Farm) Licences – 39 licences

   • A smaller number of women have chosen to explore agriculture, showing their interest in food production, sustainability, and farming.

6. Industrial (Rowad) Licences – 12 licences

   • Though the number is smaller, the presence of women in industrial businesses reflects their courage to step into sectors that were traditionally male-dominated.

A Symbol of Growth and Change

The rise in women-led businesses shows that Abu Dhabi is moving towards a more inclusive and forward-looking economy. By encouraging women to participate, the emirate is making sure that its growth is shared by all members of society.

The Mobdea licence in particular has been a game-changer. It removed the barrier of having to rent or own an office space, making it easier for women to start businesses from home. This flexibility has encouraged many women, especially those with family responsibilities, to begin their entrepreneurial journeys.

The Tajer Abu Dhabi licence has also made trade more accessible, while freelance licences have helped skilled professionals enter the market at a lower cost.

By offering these options, ADRA has created a system that adapts to the needs of women and supports their creativity.

Broader Impact on Abu Dhabi’s Economy

This progress is not only about women—it is about the entire economy of Abu Dhabi. By supporting women entrepreneurs, Abu Dhabi is achieving several goals at the same time:

• Economic Diversification: Women are starting businesses in many different sectors, from trade to agriculture, reducing the reliance on traditional industries like oil.

• Innovation and Knowledge Growth: Freelance and Mobdea licences allow women to use their unique skills to build knowledge-driven businesses.

• Job Creation: When women start new businesses, they create opportunities for others as well.

• Social Development: Women’s participation ensures a more balanced and fair society where everyone has a chance to succeed.

The journey does not stop here. ADRA and ADDED have promised to continue building a supportive environment for women in business. They aim to keep improving the licensing system, reducing obstacles, and encouraging more Emirati women to explore entrepreneurship.

The National Strategy for Empowerment of Emirati Women (2023–2031) will continue to act as a roadmap. It ensures that women are given every opportunity to rise as leaders and decision-makers, not only in business but also in national development.

The issuance of 5,930 new licences to Emirati women in one year is more than just a number. It is a reflection of trust, vision, and hard work. It shows how Abu Dhabi values the role of women in shaping its future.

From flexible licences like Mobdea to specialised freelance and industrial permits, Emirati women are proving their determination to succeed in all areas of business.

As His Excellency Mohamed Munif Al Mansoori said, Emirati women are not only a part of society—they are a pillar of growth. With every new business they start, they contribute to a stronger, more innovative, and more inclusive Abu Dhabi.

By June 2025, with over 21,000 licences in their name, Emirati women have already made history. And with the continued support of ADRA, ADDED, and the vision of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, their journey is only just beginning.