Episode 03 - How Governance in the UAE Has Evolved | Dr. Maryam Alsuwaidi

In this episode of Voices of Governance by Hawkamah, Dominic Elvin, Senior Manager at Hawkamah, speaks with Dr. Maryam Alsuwaidi, Vice Chairwoman of Hawkamah, about what corporate governance really looks like in practice, beyond rules and compliance.

Drawing on her experience as former CEO of the Securities and Commodities Authority, Dr. Maryam shares how governance in the UAE has evolved, why regulation alone is never enough, and how culture, leadership intent, and independent thinking determine whether governance succeeds or fails. From listed companies to family-owned businesses, she explains the real challenges boards face and how strong governance enables growth rather than slowing it down.

The conversation also explores board independence, diversity, the transition from executive to non-executive roles, and the future of governance in a world shaped by ESG, technology, and shifting stakeholder expectations.

Tune in to learn:
→ Why governance collapses when culture is missing
→ How regulation has shaped governance maturity in the UAE
→ The difference between compliance and intentional leadership
→ Governance challenges in family businesses and private companies
→ What makes a good director versus a great one
→ How diversity strengthens board decision making
→ The key trends shaping the future of governance

⏱️ Key Moments
00:00 Governance, culture, and intent
01:10 Defining corporate governance in practice
05:00 How governance has evolved in the UAE
12:00 Regulation, trust, and market confidence
20:00 Why rules alone are not enough
26:30 Executive vs non-executive board roles
29:00 Diversity and board effectiveness
34:30 The future of governance and leadership