Raja Al-Gurg

Written by Monica
Upon meeting Raja Al-Gurg it was evident that she possesses a strong drive, a peaceful soul, and a great personality. Her demeanor and personality are clearly recognized as types that are destined for success. Growing up with her two brothers, she had the opportunity to take the family business from her father due to her brothers’ disinterest in their business. This new career path allowed Raja to experience a different leadership career outside Education and into the corporate world.
Speaking with Raja we were able to get a glimpse into the life of a Female Emerati executive. From her 30 plus years of experience in the Dubai business world is an amazing accomplishment. She took on the business just as Dubai was developing into a city and world business trader. With her hard work and dedication to her family and her career, Raja took her business into managing about 22 companies in the UAE. She also gives back to the UAE community through education, and taking on leadership roles on the Women's Business Council and is a member of the Zayed University Board of Trustees. Through her work both in and out of the office, Raja is advancing the lives of future Emerati business women, and business women around the world.
A tolerant and good society is very important to Raja and her theories on the UAE community make perfect models for all countries in which women are struggling with modernization, globalization, and integration into the workforce. Raising a good family and pursuing a fulfilling career, Raja admits is very difficult to achieve without maternity leave, flexible hours, and childcare support. Raja was able to raise her family and watch over them during her work as the school principle. She had adequate amount of time to devote to both her children and her career, but feels she didn’t have enough time for herself. Younger generations, she feels are faced with longer work hours and the notion of having to choose between family and work. That it is difficult to maintain both. Ultimately, Raja argues with lots of work and determination you can have both, but she believes you will always be sacrificing yourself in order to maintain the balance and status quo in your life. Raja believes that employers must revise their policy on maternity leave and allow room for flexibility with working mothers. Perhaps arranging women to work fewer days or varying her shifts will accommodate both a productive workday and family life.
Living a fulfilling life came across to us as being very important to Raja. She like many other Emeratis are family based and value group collectivism. Her family and community are very important to her. Giving back and contributing to society and making the global community better are some of her goals. She did not achieve her success by waiting for opportunities. She worked hard and fought to be where she is today. Fighting for your rights as an employee is crucial to continue in the advancement in women leadership.