Environmental authority in Dubai recognized for gender equality advancements and women's empowerment on international level

Dubai Municipality Achieves World's First ISO 53800 Certification for Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment

In a significant milestone, Dubai Municipality has become the first organisation in the world to receive the ISO 53800 certification for gender equality and women's empowerment. The certification was awarded by Global TUV, a Germany-based organisation, on Emirati Women's Day, 28 August.

This certification demonstrates the maturity of Dubai Municipality's governance frameworks and strengthens its capacity to attract and retain top talent. His Excellency Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, stated that the achievement reflects the UAE's commitment to embedding equality as a social and institutional value.

The certification covers policies, leadership empowerment, pay equity, and fair organisational practices. Azza Al Marzooqi, Director of Human Resources at Dubai Municipality, stated that the ISO 53800 certification supports the employee happiness strategy, boosting satisfaction, productivity, and talent retention.

Nasser BuShehab, CEO of the Planning and Governance Sector at Dubai Municipality, described the recognition as a key step in strengthening workplace culture. He highlighted that the certification underscores Dubai Municipality's leadership in promoting inclusive workplaces and empowering women.

The achievement reinforces the UAE's broader 'Year of Community' initiatives that focus on justice, cohesion, and sustainable development. The UAE has improved significantly in gender equality, ranking 7th globally and first in the region on the UN Development Programme's 2024 Gender Inequality Index. The UAE's remarkable leap from 49th in 2015 to its current ranking highlights its progress in gender equality.

The certification underscores Dubai Municipality's alignment with the UAE's national policies on equality, merit, and social inclusion. The milestone highlights Dubai Municipality's commitment to fostering innovation and excellence.

The UAE's focus on gender equality and women's empowerment is not limited to Dubai Municipality. The country has made strides in promoting gender equality across various sectors. This certification serves as a testament to the UAE's dedication to creating a more equal and inclusive society.

In conclusion, the ISO 53800 certification for Dubai Municipality is a significant step forward in promoting gender equality and women's empowerment in the UAE. It reinforces the country's commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive society, and serves as an inspiration for other organisations to follow suit.