A groundbreaking study in the UAE has revealed that motherhood is far from a career-ending phase for many women. Instead, it serves as a catalyst for ambition and entrepreneurship. The ‘State of Motherhood & Ambition in the UAE 2025’ report, conducted by researchers Constanze Munz and Anushka Kalyanpur De Luca, surveyed over 180 professional mothers across the country. The findings challenge the outdated notion that women scale back their professional aspirations after having children.
According to the study, 28% of mothers in the UAE have started their own businesses at various stages of motherhood, from the first year after childbirth to over a decade later. Furthermore, 70% of working mothers reported maintaining or even strengthening their ambition post-childbirth. Rather than leaving the workforce, many are redefining success on their own terms, prioritizing autonomy, purpose, and flexibility over traditional career trajectories.
The research highlights that one in five mothers switched industries to pursue more meaningful work, while another 20% returned to their roles with renewed clarity and drive. Nearly half (46%) expressed plans to start a business in the future, signaling a growing trend of female-led entrepreneurship in the UAE.
Support systems emerged as a critical factor in sustaining ambition. Among mothers satisfied with childcare arrangements, 84% reported steady or increased ambition, compared to 55% among those without adequate support. Flexible work arrangements, financial security, and reliable childcare were identified as essential enablers for mothers to thrive professionally.
The researchers emphasized that the findings should shift the national conversation from ‘working mothers’ challenges’ to ‘societal opportunities.’ Supporting mothers, they argue, is not only a social good but also an economic strategy that benefits families, employers, and the broader economy. ‘When mothers thrive, everyone thrives,’ Munz stated.
The study, conducted between June and November 2025, included mothers from diverse industries and stages of motherhood. It concludes that ambition does not diminish with motherhood; instead, it evolves and, with the right support, can flourish.