Sharjah Programme Sees Majority Of Women Participants Aged 3554

2026-04-07 02:31:46

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) A financial literacy programme in Sharjah is drawing strong participation from women in their mid-career stage, as many seek to better manage savings, investments and long-term financial planning.

A total of 384 women have completed the programme across three editions, with the majority falling in the 35 to 54 age group, NAMA told Khaleej Times in an interview. This reflects a period when financial responsibilities tend to increase, including managing household budgets, planning for retirement, and making investment decisions.

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The initiative, led by NAMA Women Advancement, a Sharjah-based entity focused on women's economic empowerment, aims to equip participants with practical financial skills that can be applied in everyday life.

Participants came from a wide range of backgrounds, including retirees, homemakers, employees and students. The programme was delivered across multiple regions in the emirate, including Sharjah city, Kalba, Dibba Al Hisn, Al Madam, Khor Fakkan and Al Dhaid, ensuring access beyond urban centres.

Participation trends varied by location. In Sharjah city, younger women aged 18 to 34 made up a significant share. In other areas such as Kalba and Dibba Al Hisn, participation was higher among women aged 35 to 54, many of whom are managing households, running small businesses or advancing in their careers.

Common challenges women face

Several common challenges emerged among participants, NAMA said, particularly among those in the 35 to 54 age group. Many were already responsible for key financial decisions but had not received formal guidance on budgeting, savings or investment strategies.

There was also hesitation around borrowing, often linked to uncertainty about risk and repayment structures. In some cases, this led to avoidance rather than informed decision-making.

Confidence was another factor. While many participants were active decision-makers in their personal and professional lives, they approached financial planning with caution, particularly when it came to investments.

The programme focused on practical application, guiding participants through real-life scenarios such as setting budgets, managing expenses and understanding investment tools. Interest in financial instruments such as stocks, real estate and sukuk increased once these were explained in accessible terms.

Taking plans into action

Some participants have already begun applying what they learned. NAMA told Khaleej Times that one participant introduced structured savings discussions at home, helping shift financial conversations within her family towards long-term planning.

Another implemented a monthly budget to better track income and expenses, while a participant from Dibba Al Hisn revisited plans to start a home business after developing a financial roadmap during the programme.

Others reported taking early steps towards saving and investing, including exploring options such as real estate and other financial instruments that they had previously viewed as complex or inaccessible.

The programme includes workshops, case studies and one-on-one mentoring sessions, allowing participants to define financial priorities and build practical plans. NAMA also follow-ups and gives feedback mechanisms to reinforce learning and support long-term financial habits.

NAMA said the continued demand for the programme reflects growing awareness of the importance of financial literacy, particularly as individuals navigate a rapidly changing financial landscape.