This week on Marketplace Middle East

* username: rupertbu

The UAE, like the rest of the Gulf, doesn't have a large indigenous labour force.

Expats make up majority of the workforce. So, the government began a process called "Emiratization."

In theory, its goal is to motivate locals to work, by creating jobs and training opportunities. But the UAE, like many of its neighbours, is a cash-rich nation. Citizens are entitled to a number of benefits, and few need to work.

So, how does the government create skilled local workforce? And why are women stepping up to drive the change?