Empowered pathways: Mechanisms used by Qatari women to navigate leadership challenges

Abstract

ABSTRACT This thesis seeks to examine the specific strategies and mechanisms employed by Qatari women to assert their agency in attaining leadership positions, through the lens of Kandiyoti’s (1988) patriarchal bargain. It aims to answer the following question: what mechanisms and strategies do Qatari women employ to navigate their way into leadership roles? To fulfill the aim of the study, a qualitative study featuring in-depth interviews was deemed appropriate. This methodological approach facilitates a comprehensive understanding and analysis of the experiences of Qatari women, emphasizing their agency and elucidating the specific mechanisms to navigate the complexities associated to leadership roles. The study involves nine Qatari women occupying C-suite positions in the business sector. The data collected through interviews was transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings of the interviews reveal that, in the context of their career trajectories and the challenges of leadership, participants characterize their journeys as predominantly unplanned. Many women attain leadership positions not through linear career paths, but rather by adapting to the evolving demands of their organizations. The influence of cultural and societal norms on women’s career advancement presents a complex interplay among cultural expectations, familial support, educational opportunities, and individual agency. The investigation of strategies and mechanisms used by Qatari women to navigate leadership challenges highlights the intricate nature of female leadership in Qatar, emphasizing women’s agency and the diverse approaches they adopt to affirm their roles in both professional and domestic contexts. The emerging themes highlight the significance of negotiation, personal agency, familial support and emotional resilience in shaping their leadership trajectories. Participants consider that negotiation is an integral aspect of their daily responsibilities. Furthermore, the examination of support systems within organizations, alongside the evolving legal framework and economic development in Qatar, underscores the critical role of organizational structures, progressive legal provisions, and the intricate relationship between modernization and cultural preservation.

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