Dubai, UAE, December 10, 2018:  In a new Emirati achievement that reflects the status and capabilities of Emirati women, Dr. Raja Al Gurg, President of the Dubai Business Women Council (DBWC) and Managing Director of the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group LLC (ESAG), has been chosen as one of the World's Most Powerful Women in 2018, according to the annual list published by Forbes Magazine. Al Gurg is one of only 3 Arab business women to appear on the list and the only Emirati woman to do so.

Dr. Raja Al Gurg has advanced 8 places on the magazine’s annual ranking when compared to the previous year, ranking 82nd on the list and becoming the 2nd Arab woman on the list after Lubna Olayan from Saudi Arabia. To evaluate candidates, Forbes Magazine takes into the account the wealth, media presence, and influence of prominent women from the business, technology, entertainment, philanthropical and political spheres.

Al Gurg attributed this achievement to the wise leadership of the UAE that has provided all types of support for Emirati Women to succeed. She considers the vision of the wise leadership and the support of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, in empowering women in all fields as a major factor for the prominence of Emirati women as a key participant in the sustainable development of the emirate and the country.

Al Gurg stated that receiving this achievement during the Year of Zayed, a year that honours the late founding father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who believed in Emirati women and their capabilities, adds even more significance to this honour, especially since the late founding father invested in women and considered them a key part of building the family, the community, the economy, and the country.

“I am honoured to belong to this country, which is a nation that is characterized by its charitable and humanitarian work, and one that has changed the stereotypical perception of the Arabic woman. I pledge to my nation and the wise leadership to continuously work towards maintaining the UAE’s status as a leader in all fields.” Al Gurg added.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel topped the Forbes magazine's annual list of the 100 most powerful women in the world for the 8th straight year, while British Prime Minister Teresa Mae placed 2nd this year and IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde place 3rd.