Abstract
Purpose – Despite various governmental efforts, female entrepreneurship in the UAE is still not a popular option among women. The purpose of this study is to identify the enablers to female entrepreneurship and to establish relationships among them. Design/methodology/approach – This research uses a two-phased approach. In the first-phase, an empirical study on female entrepreneurs was conducted to find out the most important enablers from among a set of variables identified through a comprehensive literature review. In the second-phase, using interpretive structural modeling, a hierarchy-based model is developed among the most important enablers. Further, these enablers are also classified depending on their driving power and dependence. Findings – Survey results indicate that female entrepreneurs consider enablers as the driving force in creating an entrepreneurial culture. Further, the hierarchy-based model developed in this research helps to identify variables that are of strategic importance and require utmost attention. Practical implications – The framework presented in this study can be used effectively by the policymakers to develop suitable strategies for improving entrepreneurial behavior among women in the United Arab Emirates. Originality/value – The novelty of this approach is the integration of questionnaire and interpretive structural modeling methodology and classifying enablers in four clusters. The research provides useful insights about the perception of female entrepreneurs about the entrepreneurial culture in the United Arab Emirates, and a relationship model that may serve as a decision tool for improving female entrepreneurship.
Conclusions
Fourteen enablers to improve female entrepreneurial behavior were identified, and contextual relationships between them were established using ISM methodology. While significant progress has been made in empowering Emirati females, who currently represent 59 per cent of the total work force in the government (El-Sokari et al., 2013), more robust initiatives linked with personal, institutional and societal development are needed to make entrepreneurship a more attractive option for Emirati females.
The study’s findings will help policymakers and related associations in formulating strategies toward a conducive business environment for Emirati female entrepreneurs. The study also stresses the importance of gender equality in the UAE, which is a moral and economic imperative to create more sustainable societies. The research study suggests designing specialized programs/courses in synergy with higher educational institutions in the UAE, which will help the female entrepreneurs in enhancing their management skills and competencies for further growth and development.
