Dubai, Mar 15 (IANS/WAM): The number of women entrepreneurs in the UAE is expected to grow this year, as conditions for starting a business in the emirates have improved, says a new report.

According to the latest report by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM), men in the Middle East region are 2.8 times more likely to start a business than women, but there are several factors that can help women entrepreneurs bridge the gap.

The total number of business registration and licensing transactions facilitated by the Dubai Economic Department in 2012 show a 13 percent increase compared to last year, citing improved business climate and business-friendly initiatives as the reason for the growth.

In the World Bank's annual Ease of Doing Business survey, the UAE was ranked 22nd compared to 46 in 2012.

Dubai SME said it has actively supported and encouraged the participation of women.

"Our compilation of success stories is replete with inspiring achievements of women entrepreneurs who have started businesses and many of them are now flourishing. However, a lot remains to be done and we are continuing to develop new initiatives that encourage more individuals to start their business," said Abdul Baset Al Janahi, chief executive officer of Dubai SME.