Ras Al Khaimah network launches to empower, connect and celebrate women, with 50 female leaders present

Zawya

a day ago

Established by Ras Al Khaimah Investment and Development Office (IDO), WISE network is 'about creating space for dialogue, mentorship and opportunity' for women from IDO-affiliated entities
Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates: Ras Al Khaimah has launched a network for women, with the aim of empowering, uplifting, coaching, connecting and celebrating women from IDO-affiliated entities across the Emirate. In the first-ever event for WISE – Women In Strength and Empowerment, Ras Al Khaimah Women's Network – fifty female top leaders were in attendance as inspiring conversations and a panel discussion were built around the theme of 'Women in Leadership'.
The WISE network was established by the Emirate's Investment and Development Office (IDO) to provide a platform that supports women across IDO-affiliated entities, highlights female leaders, fosters peer connections and seeks to make a long-term impact through structured and ongoing engagement.
WISE aims to empower women, both professionally and personally, to build a visible, connected community of female leaders and encourage mentorship, growth and leadership development. The establishment of the network recognizes that long-term progress and inclusive development depend on ensuring women have the visibility, support and opportunities needed to lead, thrive and shape the future of Ras Al Khaimah.
His Excellency Mohammed Sultan Al Qadi, Managing Director of the IDO, said: 'The launch of WISE, Ras Al Khaimah Women's Network, is a meaningful step forward in our ongoing journey to ensure a more inclusive, connected and empowered society. Women have always played a vital role in shaping our Emirate's story, and this network offers a dedicated platform to support their continued growth, leadership and visibility across all sectors.
'It is about more than recognition; it is about creating space for dialogue, mentorship and opportunity, and ensuring that women from all IDO-affiliated organizations are equipped and encouraged to lead. By investing in the potential of women, we are investing in the long-term success, innovation and resilience of Ras Al Khaimah.'
Launched at the Movenpick Resort, Al Marjan Island, the first WISE event featured conversations with notable C-suite female leaders from Ras Al Khaimah and beyond, as well as a panel discussion with speakers including Sherri DeSalvio, VP Pre-Opening Planning & Strategic Initiatives at Wynn Al Marjan Island, Mandy Van De Velde, Senior VP Investment at IDO and Dr. Alida Scholtz, CFO at RAKEZ. The session was moderated by Dr Lina Almarestani, Senior Manager at PwC Academy.
Future WISE events will expand to include more women, with senior female leaders serving as mentors and coaches. Meetings will be regular and both in person and virtually.
About the Investment and Development Office
The Investment and Development Office (IDO) is the investment arm of the Government of Ras Al Khaimah. It was established by Emiri Decree in 2004 and is a pillar of the Emirate's development and prosperity. IDO's mandate is to generate superior and reliable financial returns and to drive sustainable economic growth and diversification for the Emirate and its people, for generations to come. IDO's portfolio spans a wide range of sectors, with both listed and non-listed investments.
About Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), the fourth largest Emirate in the UAE, is defined by its natural diversity, rich history and a forward-thinking vision, led by His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi. His focus on sustainable development, economic prosperity, environmental conservation, social development and innovation has shaped RAK into an ideal environment to live, work and invest. With a strategic location connecting East and West – placing one third of the world's population within four hours' flying time – RAK is a gateway to key markets, such as the UAE, Middle East, Africa, India and beyond.
RAK's economy is among the most diversified in the region, with no single sector contributing more than 27% to its GDP. The Emirate offers a business-friendly environment, with simplified, customizable services, low operating costs, 100% foreign ownership, zero personal income tax and one of the world's lowest corporate tax rates. Its efficient judicial system, recognized by the World Bank, ensures fairness and transparency. RAK also boasts world-class infrastructure, including multiple seaports strategically close to the Strait of Hormuz and major international shipping lanes, an international airport and extensive logistics capabilities.
RAK is home to over 50,000 companies from 100+ countries, including industry leaders and global exporters, such as RAK Ceramics and Julphar. Over 30,000 of these businesses operate within Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ), one of the region's largest free zones, while RAK Digital Assets Oasis (RAK DAO) reinforces the Emirate's ambition to become a global hub for Web3 and digital assets.
RAK's economic strength is reflected by 15+ years of consistent 'A'-range Fitch and S&P credit ratings, with both agencies upgrading RAK in 2024, to 'A/A-1' by S&P and 'A+' by Fitch.
RAK has a multicultural society of 0.4 million people from 150 countries and offers a high quality of life, including accessible luxury living and a serene coastal lifestyle.
Significant investment in RAK's real estate, hospitality and tourism sectors in recent years is seeing signature luxury global brands, such as Wynn, Four Seasons, Nobu, Fairmont and La Mer By Elie Saab joining existing landmarks from Waldorf Astoria, Ritz-Carlton and Mövenpick. Projects such as RAK Central will redefine the commercial and residential landscape, with innovative Grade A office spaces and modern, sustainable residential areas creating a desirable location for upscale living.
As a fast-growing tourism destination, RAK has become synonymous with adventure, culture and leisure. Its adventure tourism, especially at Jebel Jais, the UAE's highest peak, its stunning natural beauty, including 68km of beaches spanning the majority of a near-80km coastline, and 7,000 years of history further enhance its universal appeal. Four of RAK's archaeological sites are on UNESCO's tentative list of World Heritage Sites.
With year-round sunshine, straightforward business set-up, a competitive cost of living and high quality of life, Ras Al Khaimah offers limitless opportunities, making it a destination that truly embraces potential.