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Abstract

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made significant advancements in women empowerment and has established legal frameworks to support people with disabilities, particularly women (People of Determination, POD). However, there is a notable lack of information regarding the career choices of Emirati Women of Determination (EWOD). This literature review aims to address this gap by examining the limited research on EWOD’s career choices and the challenges they encounter. The societal stigma surrounding disabilities, especially with women, often results in underreporting which hinders data collection efforts. While existing research predominantly relies on qualitative methods, providing valuable insights, it lacks generalizability. This review underscores the necessity for a comprehensive approach to tackle these obstacles. It examines and highlights educational institutions offering tailored career guidance and support services for POD, policymakers facilitating partnerships and developing targeted internship programs to bridge the education-employment gap, and organizations creating inclusive workplaces with accessibility modifications, flexible work arrangements, and continuous training opportunities. Future research should prioritize studies focused on EWOD's experiences, utilizing a mixed-methods approach and involving POD in the research process. Policymakers should invest in research on EWOD’s career choices and design specialized educational initiatives. Collaboration among policymakers, educational institutions, and the private sector is essential to establish seamless pathways for EWOD’s career development. By addressing these knowledge gaps and implementing a combination of interventions, we can empower Emirati women with disabilities to make informed career decisions and reach their full potential.

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