- Marks the first rollout of the SHE LEADS leadership program in the UAE, supporting women’s advancement in higher education
- Focuses on building leadership skills, career readiness, and inclusive professional growth for women across academic and administrative roles
- Brings together women leaders and emerging talent from nine universities nationwide for collaborative learning and mentorship
Liwa University has launched the SHE LEADS Program in Abu Dhabi, marking the first time the global leadership initiative has been introduced in the United Arab Emirates. Delivered in partnership with Advance HE, a UK-based authority in higher education leadership, the three-day program was held from January 20 to 22, 2026.
The initiative supports national priorities such as UAE Vision 2071 and the National Strategy for the Empowerment of Women. It aims to strengthen leadership skills, career readiness, and institutional impact for women working and studying in higher education.
Hosted at Liwa University’s Abu Dhabi campus, the program brought together 45 women leaders from universities across the UAE. Participants represented nine institutions, including Liwa University, UAE University, Khalifa University, NYU Abu Dhabi, University of Sharjah, Ajman University, Al Ain University, Fujairah University, and Abu Dhabi University.
The program followed Advance HE’s internationally recognized leadership frameworks while adapting content to the cultural and professional realities of the UAE and the wider MENA region. It included four interactive workshops focused on leadership development, diversity and inclusion, and practical strategies to drive positive change within institutions.
Eighteen global experts in higher education leadership shared insights on mentoring, coaching, and building inclusive academic environments. Sessions encouraged reflection, peer learning, and hands-on tools to improve leadership effectiveness and professional confidence.
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Dr. Faiza Zitouni, Dean of Student Affairs at Liwa University, said the program empowers women at different career stages, from staff and academics to aspiring student leaders. University President Professor Mohammed Mahjoub Diaf said the initiative reflects Liwa University’s commitment to fairness, leadership development, and equal opportunity in education.
The SHE LEADS Program is expected to play a key role in building a strong pipeline of women leaders for the UAE’s higher education sector.
