This year’s Emirati Women’s Day theme, Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years, emphasizes the achievements of women across various sectors in the UAE.
Women in the UAE, from finance to technology, are not just part of the workforce; they are spearheading initiatives and making significant impacts. Their progress combines respect for traditions with a drive for innovation, driven by a shared vision as they contribute to shaping the nation and gain recognition on the global stage.
Women from various fields, ranging from students to executives, share their insights about this journey.
Amina Taher, Chief Marketing Officer at Wio Bank
Emirati Women’s Day serves as a powerful reminder of the advancements we’ve achieved and the obligation we have to continue advancing. In recent years, Emirati women have not only ventured into new fields but have significantly transformed them. The shift from simply participating to exerting influence and leadership is inspiring, and it’s built on a foundation of community support, where women empower one another and forge their legacies.
Today, we witness Emirati women in leadership roles, entrepreneurship, and mentoring youths – a transition that is now becoming the standard. This evolution is not just societal; it’s also deeply personal, reflecting the experiences of my grandmother, mother, and daughter across generations, all of whom have impacted my outlook. The future involves enhancing that influence, ensuring every woman can confidently pursue her ambitions, and financial independence stands central to this journey. When women understand and claim their financial autonomy, they gain the ability to dictate their futures.
Shorouk Al Redha, Chief People Officer, Aldar Education
This day prompts reflection. I hold great admiration for our nation’s leadership, not just for what has been accomplished but for the encouraging path ahead. We are witnessing a remarkable evolution in the role of women in society, and that fills me with pride. My message to young Emirati women is to cherish the privileges available to you in this nation.
As women here, we enjoy rights, respect, and opportunities that surpass those in many other countries.
Seize the chance to make a meaningful impact in society, as each of you has the potential to effect significant change.
Zainab Al Ali, Director of Outreach and Stakeholder Relations at Masdar
Growing up in a country where women’s opportunities are expanding rapidly under visionary leadership has taught me that ambition and purpose can drive both personal and national transformation.
Since joining Masdar in 2009, I’ve recognized that the energy transformation requires a generation prepared to lead. Through <, a platform aimed at fostering curiosity into capability and potential into leadership, we have empowered over 41,000 young individuals through workshops, mentorships, and global forums, creating a community of changemakers ready to promote the green economy.
Someone believed in me when I began my career, and now it’s my turn to uplift others.
Mariam Al Shamsi, Sustainability Officer at ARAMEX
Emirati women have made remarkable strides in shaping the nation’s future. We are witnessing women take charge across various sectors, contributing to the UAE’s growth and providing inspiration for the region with their resilience and drive. Compared to previous generations, opportunities for women have broadened significantly, along with the belief in their vital role in progress.
Moreover, the steadfast support from our leadership has played a crucial role in empowering women through education, workplace equity, and national strategies that prioritize women in development.
Additionally, encouragement from families and communities has enabled Emirati women to maintain a balance between tradition and innovation, confidently bringing their voices to international platforms.
In my role as a sustainability officer at ARAMEX, I lead a recycling initiative, demonstrating how Emirati women incorporate compassion, determination, and creativity to create a greener future. This unique combination of values continues to propel us forward. In the coming decades, I foresee Emirati women not merely participating but actively leading meaningful transformations on the global stage.
Salamah Almazrouei, MBZUAI Robotics Master’s Student
As an Emirati female pursuing a master’s in robotics, I recognize the growing presence of women in fields that will drive the future. Robotics and AI are revolutionizing various sectors, with expectations for the AI market to surpass $1 trillion by 2030. By choosing this path, I aim to inspire younger Emirati women to see their place in these vital industries. The opportunities have expanded remarkably.
Currently, Emirati women constitute 61 percent of STEM graduates from UAE universities, with many conducting groundbreaking research and projects. There is clear evidence of a shift, with women now leading in shaping the UAE’s technological landscape.
Zainab Aldhanhani, MBZUAI Computer Vision Master’s Student and Computer Engineer
My studies in computer vision have showcased the potential of this discipline in addressing real-world challenges. From predicting oil spill threats to combating online misinformation, AI applications directly support our national priorities. The computer vision market is forecasted to grow over 25 percent annually, and being part of this progress is both thrilling and urgent.
What stands out the most now is the increased visibility of Emirati women, who are presenting at international conferences, receiving research accolades, and contributing to the UAE’s National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031. Government data indicates that women make up more than half of science and engineering graduates, ensuring a robust talent pipeline. Personally, my participation in international leadership initiatives has affirmed the value of our contributions. This visibility is crucial, encouraging more young women to pursue similar paths.
Amna Alhammadi, MBZUAI Machine Learning Master’s Student and Researcher
Today, Emirati women are significantly contributing to critical sectors in technology and science. While the exciting technical possibilities of AI catch my attention, I am especially inspired by its connections to sustainability, finance, and diplomacy. AI is expected to contribute over $320 billion to the Middle Eastern economy by 2030, and I see its capabilities as vital for tackling issues like carbon neutrality and biodiversity preservation.
Emirati women are active contributors in pivotal conversations relating AI to global challenges. Now, we have role models in academia, industry, and policy demonstrating that these careers are both achievable and impactful. I envision limitless possibilities for the next generation of Emirati women in technology and science.
Read: Emirati Women’s Day honors innovators, heroes