August 28 marks Emirati Women's Day — an annual occasion dedicated to recognising the remarkable accomplishments of Emirati women in building the UAE. The 2024 celebration is anchored by the theme "We Share for Tomorrow," reflecting the vision of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Mother of the Nation, on women's rights and the country's collective future.
To mark the occasion, eight inspiring female leaders shared insights on leadership, empowerment, and what it means to shape tomorrow's UAE.
HH Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum — Chairperson, Dubai Culture & Arts Authority
Emirati women have proven their competence in undertaking all tasks, creating opportunities, and turning challenges into achievements across every field — locally, regionally, and internationally. Culturally, they have demonstrated an extraordinary ability to transform obstacles into stepping stones, standing as the pillar of society and raising the next generation of leaders.
HH Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi — Founder and Honorary Chairman, Emirates Publishers Association
> "Emirati women have a great story to tell — empowering narratives of women in leadership, making great strides across fields, building the future we want, steeped in the traditions of yesterday but firmly forward-looking."
Abeer AlShaali — Deputy Managing Director, Gulf Craft
Diverse perspectives are essential in decision-making. Inclusive leadership — one that actively listens and values every voice — drives the relationships and innovations that move organisations forward.
Dr. Saeeda Jaffar — Senior Vice President & Group Country Manager, GCC, Visa
Women empowerment in the UAE has been one of the defining forces that propelled my career forward. Policies championing female representation have paved the way for outstanding talent, fuelled today's economy, and challenged the next generation of women to rise to the occasion.
Huda Sabil Abdulla — Chief Financial Officer, Emirates Islamic
Emirati women have positively influenced our society at every level. Their accomplishments have acted as catalysts, breaking barriers for generations to come. On this special occasion, I congratulate all women across every sector for the extraordinary progress we continue to make together.
Amna Al Mazmi — Director, Kalimat Foundation
Emirati women are proving formidable in every sector, with a growing focus on humanitarian initiatives that reinforce the UAE's identity as a nation of unity, compassion, and purpose.
Hanan Alrubaiai — Manager, Technology Advisory Services, PwC Middle East
True talent and true success lie in authenticity — in being real. A remarkable Emirati woman leads by example and brings positive, lasting change to her team and her organisation.
Why Emirati Women's Day Matters
The UAE's commitment to gender equality is reflected in measurable outcomes: in 2024, the United Nations Development Programme ranked the UAE 7th globally and 1st in the MENA region on the Gender Inequality Index — a significant rise from 49th place in 2015. Women now account for 61% of STEM graduates in the UAE, outpacing the regional average.
Emirati Women's Day 2024 is a reminder that the progress achieved is not a destination but a foundation — one that the next generation of UAE women will continue to build upon, together.
