Career Advancement and Work-Family Balance Among Qatari Mothers in an Information Communication Technology (ICT) Organisation

Abstract

The social culture of Qatar relies on Islamic heritage and Arab customs, which establish particular duties between men and women as well as familial obligations. Qatari women have achieved substantial educational and professional development so that they now perform 58.3% of local employment across education, healthcare and public administration and ICT sectors (MOFA, 2024). Yet, they often face challenges in career progression, especially in attaining leadership positions, with these challenges augmented by experiences of motherhood. To shed light on the phenomenon, this study explores the challenges and opportunities working mothers face at an ICT organisation in Qatar, with a focus on career advancement and leadership roles attainment. Drawing upon literature on gender and organisations, the research used a qualitative method approach, including interviews with seven working mothers at an ICT organisation. This approach generated insights into professional advancement barriers and support systems that impact working mother in terms of leadership access, and generated knowledge about the factors influencing career development in relation to cultural norms and organisational procedures. The study finds that working mothers at this particular ICT organisation face career-based limitations because local and organisational culture specifies particular roles and duties for women. Working mothers at the organisations encounter challenges in advancing through the ranks. Work-life balance policies, together with managerial decisions, determine how many opportunities working mothers have to advance into leadership roles. This highlights the areas that require enhancement in the organisation, including organisational support, promotion policies, and leadership programmes. In conclusion, this study advocates for the promotion of gender diversity in organisations in Qatar through awareness campaigns, as well as equal opportunities policies.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	HBKU College of Humanities and Social Science