Women in UAE Rebuild Careers with Support After Career Breaks
UAE women are returning to work with help from mentorship, training, and community support after career interruptions.
Women in the United Arab Emirates who paused their careers are successfully re-entering the workforce with the assistance of mentorship, practical training, and supportive networks. Participants in the Women’s Pavilion’s Return to Work programme credit these resources with helping them overcome self-doubt and regain confidence in their professional abilities.
Shazia Shahbandri, a biotechnology engineer and scientific writer, described her return to work as a journey of rediscovery. She explained that while managing household duties, she had lost sight of her professional identity but felt an inner drive to continue contributing and learning.
“In the rhythm of my daily household responsibilities, I somehow lost sight of myself professionally,” Shahbandri said. “There was always a little spark inside me that kept saying I still have more to give and so much more to learn.”
The programme offers practical training sessions and mentorship opportunities, creating a community where women can share experiences and support each other’s growth. This approach aims to rebuild participants’ confidence and help them recognize their value in the workplace.
By focusing on skill development and emotional encouragement, the initiative addresses common challenges faced by women returning to employment after a break, such as adapting to new technologies and overcoming feelings of uncertainty.
Overall, the Return to Work programme demonstrates the positive impact of structured support systems in empowering women to successfully resume their careers and contribute meaningfully to their fields.