The United Arab Emirates has showcased a unique experience in empowering women politically, stemming from a strong belief in their capabilities and potential to make a significant, positive impact across various sectors and contribute actively to the nation’s sustainable development journey.
The decision to increase the representation of women in the Federal National Council to 50% in 2019 exemplified the leadership’s commitment to enhancing women’s political empowerment, positioning the UAE as the leading Arab and regional country in terms of female parliamentary membership and fourth globally, according to the Inter-Parliamentary Union.
The involvement of Emirati women in the Federal National Council began in 2006 when they participated as voters and members in the first electoral experience. In its 14th legislative term in 2007, nine women were elected, making up 22.5% of the members. In the 15th term in 2011, there were seven women, representing 17.5%, and in the 16th term in 2015, eight women held 22%. This representation reached 50% beginning with the 17th legislative term in 2019 and continues in the current 18th term of 2023.
Emirati women achieved a historic milestone in 2015 when Amal Al Qubaisi was elected as the president of the Federal National Council, becoming the first woman to lead a parliamentary institution in the Arab world.
Several members of the Federal National Council affirmed that the political empowerment of Emirati women reflects a positive vision of partnership and integration within the country, resulting in a series of pioneering national achievements across various sectors.
Her Excellency Amina Ali Al Mahdi stated that the UAE boasts a prominent track record in women’s empowerment, particularly in the political and parliamentary arenas, where women have become genuine partners in national decision-making. She emphasized that this achievement was not coincidental but rather a result of the visionary leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the support of the wise leadership and Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the “Mother of the Nation,” who chairs the General Women’s Union, the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and the Family Development Foundation.
Her Excellency Mariam Majed Bin Thaniya remarked that Emirati Women’s Day is an annual occasion to celebrate their achievements across all fields, particularly in politics and legislation. She highlighted that empowering women to reach parliamentary positions is not a fleeting step but a living embodiment of the wise leadership’s vision that believes comprehensive development can only be achieved through balanced and equitable gender participation.
Her Excellency Mona Khalifa Hamad indicated that Emirati women have always been crucial partners in building the nation and shaping its future, contributing to its vision of sustainable development and global leadership. She pointed out that women’s achievements are the result of a wise leadership vision, comprehensive institutional support, and the determination of confident women who continue to contribute thoughtfully to the UAE’s future.
Her Excellency Aisha Rashid Al Leitiem stressed that the path the UAE has taken in politically empowering women is not a recent development but is rooted in a solid approach adopted by the leadership since the inception of the union, based on the belief that women are essential to building and developing the nation.
She noted that the council members have played an active role in shaping legislation, proposing innovative initiatives, and discussing national issues, reflecting the strong trust the community has in Emirati women and affirming their role as active partners in national decision-making.
Her Excellency Sumaya Abdullah Bin Harab Al Suwaidi stated that the leadership presence and political empowerment of Emirati women stem from a comprehensive developmental vision that promotes equal opportunities for both genders, enabling women to excel in various educational, professional, and political fields.
She added that due to this vision, Emirati women have reached advanced leadership positions and demonstrated their capabilities in national decision-making, extending their contributions to international forums by effectively representing the country at the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the Arab Parliament.
Her Excellency Aisha Ibrahim Al Marri indicated that, thanks to the wise directives of the leadership, Emirati women have become active partners in shaping public policies, noting that their path in parliamentary work has not been fleeting or superficial but is the result of historical accumulations and significant milestones that have enhanced their participation.
Her Excellency Mona Rashid Thanoon remarked that the achievements of Emirati women in the parliamentary field would not have been possible without the unwavering support from the wise leadership and the belief in women’s potential for meaningful involvement in nation-building.
She emphasized that empowering women is not just a slogan but a comprehensive national path, reflected in policies, legislation, and strategic plans that provide a supportive environment and solidify women’s positions as active partners in all facets of life.