Diversity

UAE and Oman women lead AI adoption and sustainability: KPMG Insights

By Anjum Khan

Women leaders across industries in the UAE and Oman are not just talking but also harnessing the power of AI and technology to foster progressive business environments. According to a latest report by KPMG, women are emerging as the mentors for future generations, integrating sustainability efforts into their practices. 

The report titled, UAE and Oman Women Leaders’ Outlook,’ finds that women leaders are embracing technology to enhance strategic decision-making, streamline operations, and deliver customer-focused solutions. AI, in particular, is emerging as a game-changer, empowering women leaders to shape sustainable businesses while balancing personal commitments. It also highlights that national frameworks like the National Policy for Empowerment of Emirati Women 2031 and the Gender Balance Council Strategy 2026, are the key to women leading this shift.  

Here’s how these women are creating impact with their leadership:

Building success through integrity and diversity

Today business thrives on its people, guided by leaders who embody integrity and align with values. Women leaders focus on nurturing next-generation leaders who are entrepreneurial, resilient, and customer-centric, equipped with the vision to drive ideas forward. Through tailored training programs and initiatives, employee growth and engagement can be prioritised. Additionally, by embracing diversity and inclusion, women leaders foster innovative, collaborative, and a culture that values diverse perspectives. “Modern leadership is about adaptability, integrity, and empowering teams to excel, ensuring a resilient workforce ready for the future,” Renuka Jagtiani Chairwoman, Landmark Group shared with KPMG. 

Building a culture of innovation

Creating a culture of innovation requires trust, collaboration, and diverse perspectives. By fostering teamwork and empowering employees to take ownership, leaders encourage creativity and adaptability. Women must be supported in leadership positions to drive meaningful change. In healthcare, the UAE focuses on personalised and preventive care, along with advancements in AI and telemedicine, healthcare is transforming to meet growing demands. “To develop an inventive workplace, I believe in building a culture of trust and collaboration among my coworkers. A flat leadership style enables teams to take ownership of their projects and experiment with novel concepts without the fear of consequences or criticism from above,” shared Dr. Shanila Laiju, Group CEO,Medcare Hospitals and Medical Centers 

Ethical leadership: driven by tech, focused on people

Technology, especially AI, is reshaping work by boosting efficiency and enabling innovation, but it also brings challenges like ethics, regulation, and workforce uncertainty. Leaders must embrace AI’s potential while fostering a supportive, unbiased culture where employees thrive. Diversity drives innovation, growth, and better decision-making, making it essential to nurture talent and create equal opportunities. Anita Khanna, Partner, Head of Ethics and Independence KPMG Lower Gulf, MESAC, Middle East explained, “In my experience, diversity brings different views, which enables innovation. This in turn results in growth. Diversity makes good business sense….I invest a lot of time on self-learning and research. The people in my team are all so different—what works for one person may not be right for someone else. Some prefer on-the-job coaching, others have strong relationships with mentors or have benefitted from cross department shadowing. I encourage them to pursue whatever route drives their passion.”

Futuristic leadership: Collaboration, inclusion, and the smart use of AI

Leaders need to prioritise agility, collaboration, and open communication, empowering their teams to adapt, innovate, and co-create solutions. Leveraging technology, especially AI, to enhance decision-making, improve efficiency, and personalise experiences. Thoughtful usage of AI can drive growth and innovation while supporting talent development in the workplace. Creating a positive, inclusive culture is key to employee engagement, creativity, and retention, ultimately boosting business performance. Angela Montoya, Head of Process, Data and Technology, Human Resources at Etihad Airways shared with KPMG, “Investing in personal and professional development as a leader is crucial for one’s growth and setting an example that inspires one’s team. I encourage the next generation of leaders to inspire, guide, and empower emerging talent, actively mentor individuals who show leadership potential, offer their teams personal insight, and help them navigate challenges, fostering their confidence and developing critical leadership skills over time. Do not hesitate to provide constructive feedback whenever possible. Lastly, urging future leaders to lead by example, be transparent, promote continuous learning, support innovation, foster a growth mindset and self-awareness mindset, and not forget to celebrate success.”

Marketa Simkova, Partner at KPMG Middle East, highlighted, “AI is transforming leadership and helping female leaders boost productivity, foster sustainable practices, and create more opportunities. These women are redefining leadership by building inclusive cultures and mentoring others to thrive in competitive careers.”

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These women leaders are also making ESG a central part of their business, not just as an add-on. To make it a success, they conduct audits and gain the skills needed to assess their organisation's social and environmental impact. Additionally, creating a positive workplace culture with a focus on diversity, inclusivity, and leadership development through mentorship and skill-building. They are also embracing AI and sustainability to pave the way for a more progressive and balanced future in business.

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