In alignment with the Middle East Excellence Awards Institute’s Vision 2030, which prioritizes regional development and global leadership competitiveness, the Middle East Women Role Models Excellence Award aims to celebrate and spotlight outstanding female leaders who exemplify excellence, innovation, and transformative leadership. This initiative will be showcased during the 28th International Women Leaders Congress, taking place on April 7-9, 2026, in Dubai, UAE.

The Congress will serve as a global platform to explore the latest strategies in leadership governance, institutional advancement, and sustainable excellence. A special emphasis will be placed on the crucial role of women leaders who are shaping the future of the region. Through dynamic discussions and recognition of exceptional achievements, the event will promote a culture of inspiration, empowerment, and mentorship for the next generation of women leaders.

In this regards, the Institute has designated 2026 as the “Year of Women Role Models” an initiative to honor distinguished women whose influence has reshaped institutions and contributed meaningfully to regional and global progress. These role models have not only led in their respective fields but have also actively advocated initiatives that empower women, support female entrepreneurship, and promote inclusive nation building.

The Middle East Women Role Models Excellence Award serves as a shining example for leadership excellence highlighting women who are not only breaking barriers but are also creating frameworks for others to rise. Their enduring legacy is one of influence, progress, and empowerment across borders and industries.

The award will recognize exceptional contributions in the government and private sectors by women whose leadership has driven institutional, economic, technological, and administrative progress. Their work aligns with global competitiveness standards and exemplifies innovation, strategic foresight, and sustainable impact.

The honored leaders are selected for their outstanding ability to inspire future generations of leaders, drive institutional transformation through visionary leadership, and advocate women's empowerment in decision-making. They are recognized for their significant contributions to digital transformation and the strategic advancement of their organizations, while embodying the core principles of modern management and global leadership excellence.

The Awards will adhere to these General Criteria for Candidate Selection Procedures

• Exemplary leadership in empowering women and promoting gender equality
• Significant contributions to societal development and community welfare
• Demonstrated commitment to mentoring and inspiring future generations of women
• Innovation in addressing social, economic, or cultural challenges
• Leadership in advancing education and professional development opportunities for women
• Advocacy for women's rights and active participation in policy reform
• Exceptional achievements in a chosen field or industry
• Impactful work in promoting cultural heritage and preservation
• Commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within the workplace or community
• Role in pioneering new initiatives that benefit women and society at large
• Recognition and influence as a thought leader or change-maker in the region
• Success in overcoming barriers and challenges as a woman leader
• Contribution to sustainable development and environmental conservation
• Demonstrated integrity, ethics, and transparency in leadership
• Active involvement in cross-cultural collaboration and global initiatives
• Leadership in promoting health and wellness initiatives for women
• Advocacy for economic empowerment and financial independence for women
• Recognition for excellence in arts, culture, or creative industries
• Significant contributions to scientific research or technological innovation
• Leadership in humanitarian efforts and philanthropy
• Promotion of peace, security, and conflict resolution within communities
• Commitment to advancing women's representation in government and politics