Fair Law: UAE Legal Landscape's Gender Diversity Conundrum

By: Rachita Sharma, Managing Editor | Thursday, 6 March 2025

Over the years women have found themselves to be grossly underrepresented in the field of law. According to data shared by the International Bar Association, women’s representation as lawyers has risen to come at par with men. However, in leadership roles, women continue to be underrepresented. Today 51 percent of the total lawyers globally are women. But only 32 percent are part of decision-making roles. women’s rise in the judiciary has also been on the rise but work remains to be done to attain complete parity.

The current edition of The Global Woman Leader dives deep into understanding the gender diversity conundrum in UAE’s legal landscape. In this magazine edition we bring to readers conversations with inspirational women Head of Legal from across the world.

One such woman leader is Svetlana Ryabkova, Senior Legal Counsel at Finvizier Consultancies DMCC. She holds a Bachelor's in Law and a Master's in Finance from Saint Petersburg State University. Svetlana is also certified in Legal Consulting and Contract Drafting from the Lahaye Institute for Human Rights and International Law.

With over a decade of experience in the UAE, Svetlana has held key positions, including Head of Legal and Compliance at Finvizier Consultancies DMCC and Founder of Oryx Legal Consultancy.

In this magazine edition we also feature an interaction with Lorraine Beglar, the Legal & Operations Director and owner of Microlights Lighting LLC. With extensive experience in the UK and UAE, Lorraine has excelled in diverse legal and commercial sectors, driving business growth while ensuring legal compliance and best practices. Lorraine holds an English Law degree and a Post Graduate Diploma in Law.

These women leaders are ushering in a gender-balanced future for UAE’s legal landscape. Read on to know more about their inspirational journeys and their thoughts on the industry’s evolution.

Do let us know your thoughts.