Emirati women leaders: how they did it – Fatma Al Jabri
Suzanne Locke 23 August 2021
Ms Al Jabri is the assistant governor of financial crime, market conduct regulation and consumer protection for the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE). She has previously worked at Citibank, Dubai Bank, Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, Ajman Bank and Dubai Capital Group and has a master’s in International Business Law from Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi.
Can you tell us a bit about how you were raised, and your family values?
I was born and raised in the UAE as part of a family of two caring parents and five siblings: I am the second eldest. My parents raised us to take responsibility for one another, as well as being accountable for our own behaviour. Those values have materialised in the way I handle tasks and how I deal with others at work.
Who most influenced you growing up?
I look to the Mother of the Nation, HH Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, an inspirational figure for all Emirati women. Her support and belief motivated many to work harder to build their capabilities, knowledge and confidence, to achieve success and actively participate in their communities.
Where and what did you study?
I attended public school for my primary education, and then went on to join the Higher Colleges of Technology, through which I obtained a diploma in international banking and finance and a bachelor’s degree in business science. I later earned a master’s degree in international business law from Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi.
What other training has been most useful to your career?
I believe learning is a never-ending process. A recent leadership programme has been highly beneficial in boosting my confidence and teaching me how to communicate better and influence others.
What was your first job?
I began my career with Citibank as a management trainee. Within seven years I was heading the credit underwriting unit for the bank’s largest product at the time. Knowledgeable mentors were key to my progress.
Who has championed you along the way?
It is always useful to learn from someone else’s mistakes and successes, and I had excellent role models and mentors to support me throughout my career journey. They gave me positive and constructive feedback and the confidence to discuss ideas and understand what it was I wanted.
Do you mentor people yourself?
I currently mentor two young, ambitious UAE nationals. It gives me great pleasure to support others in reaching their full potential.
Which industries in the region do you think are doing the best at attracting women to senior roles?
Do you have any regrets?
Throughout my journey, I have had many moments of tears and laughter, failure and success, criticism and support. I have learned that hard work pays off – not necessarily in the form of monetary gain. As I always say, no regrets.
What is your next career goal?
Success does not happen accidentally. It takes thorough planning and goal-setting to draw a roadmap to success. My next career goal is to play a key role in influencing the UAE and its people’s development, which fulfils my ambition of giving back to my country some of what it has given me.
What’s your most valuable skill?
I believe that perseverance has helped me tremendously in my career and got me past any roadblocks.
What will your legacy be?
I hope to be remembered as a hard-working, dedicated individual who worked passionately in service of the UAE and its people.
What do you tell the girl who wants to be a CEO today?
Where can we find out what you’re up to online?
You can follow my
LinkedIn
to keep up with my career developments.
![[Aurora50 template] HE Aarefa Al Falahi|HE Aarefa Al Falahi in a fireside chat with Aurora50 co-founder Diana Wilde at The Inclusion Summit 2023 - RAK Roadshow](https://aurora50.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/2022_08_23_EWD_HE-Aarefa-Al-Falahi-2.jpg "[Aurora50 template] HE Aarefa Al Falahi|HE Aarefa Al Falahi in a fireside chat with Aurora50 co-founder Diana Wilde at The Inclusion Summit 2023 - RAK Roadshow")
![[Aurora50 template] Fatma Al Jabri, assistant governor for the UAE Central Bank](https://aurora50.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/002_FatmaAlJabri.jpg "[Aurora50 template] Fatma Al Jabri, assistant governor for the UAE Central Bank")
