MUSCAT : A study conducted by The Consultants MEA in collaboration with Kūdi, a network of female leaders in the Middle East, reveals notable progress in women’s leadership roles across the country, nearly 100 percent of who believe in mentorship for career advancement.

The findings illustrate that Omani women are emerging as confident and assertive leaders, committed to fostering inclusive workplace environments. They are not only serving as role models but also capitalising on educational and leadership opportunities to advance their careers.

According to the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI), Omani women are making significant strides in higher education, with a 57 percent enrollment rate. However, challenges persist, particularly in banking and finance, where gender bias and underrepresentation remain significant issues.
Women leaders are at the forefront of Oman’s drive towards gender equality, actively shaping a more inclusive future. Data from NCSI shows that women make up 47 percent of the public sector workforce, while 11.1 percent of managerial positions in the private sector.

The report quotes Nielsen’s projections which indicate that by 2028, women will account for 75 percent of discretionary spending, positioning them as key influencers in the global market.

Marise Assaf, Founder & CEO of Kūdi, emphasized the importance of empowering women in leadership roles, stating, “Empowering women in leadership is essential for fostering innovation and driving sustainable growth in our organizations. Time and again, crises have revealed women as the most empathetic and influential leaders. It’s imperative we translate this reality to the business world, championing women’s advancement.”

Najla Al Jamali, CEO of Alternative Energy at OQ, commented on the challenges women face, stating, “Workplaces need to adapt; there are two competing needs for women: the career and the biological clock. A successful workplace can navigate both, ensuring that one does not sacrifice the other.”

Despite the positive strides, the study indicates that women in senior leadership positions often earn less than their male counterparts, raising concerns about persistent gender-based pay disparities. Gender bias remains a significant challenge, manifesting in unequal treatment and limited opportunities for career advancement.

The reintegration of mothers into the workforce also presents obstacles, as family responsibilities related to childbearing and childcare continue to hinder women’s participation in the labour market.

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