Dubai : The second edition of the Avtar & Seramount Best Companies for Women in Gulf (BCWG) 2025 was unveiled today at the Best of Best (BOB) Conference in Dubai, spotlighting organizations across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region that demonstrate exemplary commitment to gender diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The prestigious list recognizes companies setting new benchmarks for empowering women professionals, implementing inclusive policies, and promoting equitable career growth.
Organized by Avtar Group, a leading workplace culture consulting and inclusion solutions firm, in partnership with Seramount, the BCWG initiative is a benchmark for fostering inclusive work environments where women thrive. This year’s announcement highlighted the significant progress of women in the GCC workplace, with 42% of all hires at the best companies being women and women’s representation reaching 33% across the region.
The Top 10 Best Companies for Women in the Gulf 2025 include industry leaders from diverse sectors such as technology, manufacturing, retail, and financial services. Notable names in the top 10 are Al Shirawi Facilities Management LLC, Diversey – A Solenis Company, Ecolab, EY, Finastra UK Limited, and KONE Middle East LLC, among others. In addition to the Top 10, nine other companies were also recognized for their efforts in creating gender-inclusive workplace cultures.
Companies were evaluated based on multiple parameters, including recruitment and retention of women professionals, representation in leadership roles, pay equity, parental and caregiving support, flexible work arrangements, and management accountability in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI). Key highlights of the study showed that 28% of women in best companies received promotions in 2025, leadership training was provided by 95% of companies, and 63% offered employee resource groups and postpartum stress/depression counselling.
Dr. Saundarya Rajesh, Founder-President of Avtar Group, commented, “This year’s BCWG winners reflect a growing commitment in the Gulf region to gender inclusion as a strategic priority. From leadership training to mentorship and sponsorship programs, these companies set a gold standard in fostering equitable pathways for women’s advancement.”
Subha V. Barry, President of Seramount, added, “These organizations are not only investing in equity but shaping a more inclusive future of work, providing the structural support necessary for women to excel, lead, and thrive.”
The 2025 BCWG initiative reinforces the critical role progressive organizations play in transforming workplace culture across the Gulf, ensuring sustainable growth, fairness, and empowerment for future generations of women professionals
