Marking this year’s theme, Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years, Emirati Women’s Day highlights the strides women have made across every sector of national life.

From finance and sustainability to science, technology, and security, Emirati women across all sectors and stages of their career are no longer just participating but leading, turning ambition into action and influence into impact. Their journey reflects a powerful blend of tradition and innovation, rooted in community and propelled by vision, as they continue to shape the UAE’s future and extend their influence onto the global stage.

Here, dynamic women – from students to heads of departments – share their views.

Amina Taher, chief marketing officer at Wio Bank

Emirati Women’s Day is a powerful reminder of the progress we’ve made and the responsibility we carry to keep moving forward. Over the past decade, Emirati women have not only stepped into new spaces, but they’ve also reshaped them. We’ve moved from participation to influence, from presence to leadership, and what’s most inspiring is how this evolution has been rooted in community: women lifting each other, sharing knowledge, and building legacies together.

Today, we see Emirati women leading in boardrooms, launching startups, and mentoring the next generation – not as exceptions, but as a growing norm. This journey is not just societal, it’s personal. I think of my grandmother, my mother, and my daughter – three generations whose strength, wisdom, and hope have shaped how I see the world. The journey ahead is about deepening that impact, ensuring every woman has the tools and confidence to turn ambition into action, and stories into strength. And at the heart of that journey is financial independence, because when women understand and own their financial power, they unlock the freedom to shape their own futures.

Shorouk Al Redha, chief people officer, Aldar Education

This day is one of reflection. I greatly admire the leadership of our nation — not only for what has been achieved, but for the clear and inspiring trajectory we are on. We have witnessed a transformative leap in the role of women in our society, and that gives me immense pride. My advice to young Emirati women is: do not underestimate the privilege you hold in this country.

As a female in this country, we enjoy a level of equality, respect, right and opportunities that are definitely better than many countries.

Take ownership of the impact you wish to make in our society, and each one of you has significant impact to make.

Zainab Al Ali, director of Outreach and Stakeholder Relations at Masdar

Growing up in a nation where opportunities for women were rapidly expanding under the UAE’s visionary leadership, I understood early on that ambition paired with purpose could deliver both personal and national transformation.

I joined Masdar in 2009 and realised that the energy transformation could not succeed without preparing a generation of young people to lead it. Through Youth 4 Sustainability (Y4S), a platform designed to turn curiosity into capability and potential into leadership, we’ve empowered more than 41,000 young people through workshops, mentorships, innovation labs and global forums, building a community of changemakers equipped to drive the green economy.

Someone believed in me when I was just starting out. Now, I carry that forward by believing in others.

Mariam Al Shamsi, sustainability officer at ARAMEX

Emirati women have come a long way in shaping the future of our nation. Today, we see women leading across government, business, science, sustainability, and more. Contributing not only to the growth of the UAE but also inspiring the region with their resilience and ambition. Compared to the generations before us, opportunities have expanded tremendously, and with them, the belief that women can and should play a central role in driving progress.

Furthermore, one of the most positive drivers of this journey has been the unwavering support of our leadership, who have invested in empowering women through education, workplace equality, and national strategies that place women at the heart of development.

Equally, the encouragement from our communities and families has allowed Emirati women to balance tradition with innovation, bringing their voices to international platforms with confidence.

In my own journey, working as a sustainability officer at ARAMEX and leading the recycling project has shown me how Emirati women bring compassion, determination, and creativity to building a greener future. This unique blend of values and vision is what continues to push us forward. The coming decades will see more Emirati women not just participating but leading meaningful change on the global stage, and I believe we are already seeing this today.

Salamah Almazrouei, MBZUAI Robotics master’s student

As an Emirati woman pursuing a master’s degree in robotics, I see how women are stepping into fields that will define the future. Robotics and AI are shaping industries from healthcare to security, with the global AI market expected to exceed $1tn by 2030. For me, choosing this path is also about showing younger Emirati women that they have a place in these sectors. Opportunities have grown significantly.

Today, Emirati women make up 61 per cent of STEM graduates in UAE universities, and many are leading groundbreaking research and projects. The shift is clear: women are now at the forefront of shaping the UAE’s technology landscape.

Zainab Aldhanhani, MBZUAI Computer Vision master’s student and computer engineer

Studying computer vision has shown me how powerful this field is for solving real-world problems. Whether predicting oil spill risks or tackling online misinformation, the applications of AI directly support national priorities. The computer vision market alone is projected to grow at over 25 per cent annually, and being part of that progress is both exciting and urgent.

What has changed most is visibility. Emirati women are now seen presenting at global conferences, winning research awards, and contributing to the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031. Government statistics show that women account for over half of science and engineering graduates, creating a strong pipeline of talent. Personally, representing the UAE in international leadership programmes has shown me how much our contributions are valued. This visibility matters, it encourages more young women to follow the same path.

Amna Alhammadi, MBZUAI Machine Learning master’s student and researcher

Emirati women today are contributing to some of the most critical areas in technology and science. While AI’s technical possibilities are exciting, I’m most inspired by how it intersects with sustainability, finance, and diplomacy. AI is projected to contribute more than $320bn to the Middle East economy by 2030, and I see its potential to help address challenges such as carbon neutrality and biodiversity conservation.

Emirati women today are contributing to some of the most critical areas in technology and science, and I’m proud to be among them.

Today, Emirati women are active leaders in conversations that link AI to global challenges. We now have role models across academia, industry, and policy who prove that these careers are both possible and impactful. For the next generation, I see no limits to what Emirati women can achieve in tech and science.

Read: Emirati Women’s Day honours innovators, heroes, says Miral’s CHRO

As the UAE celebrates Emirati Women’s Day, I carry a great sense of pride as I reflect on my own personal journey as an Emirati woman and the boundless horizons that lie ahead. It is a powerful reminder of vision, progress, resilience, and unwavering community support, befitting of this year’s theme ‘Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years‘ – a milestone marking five decades since the establishment of the General Women’s Union in 1975.

The significance of Emirati Women’s Day serves as a vital reminder of the remarkable achievements of Emirati women from all walks of life, celebrating their contributions to the nation’s prosperity and its global standing. It’s a day to honour the trailblazers who paved the way, the everyday heroes who embody the spirit of our nation and the innovators who are shaping our future.

Our journey of empowerment is intertwined with the visionary leadership that has guided the UAE since its inception. The belief of the UAE Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, in the capabilities of women is a foundational principle that has been a steady compass to this day, viewing women as partners in the nation’s success.

Empowerment through education

At the heart of this transformative journey lies education. The UAE’s unwavering commitment to empowering women through education has been a cornerstone of its development. In 1952, the nation’s first girls’ school, Al Zahra, was established in Sharjah, cultivating pioneering Emirati women, including Dr Ayesha Al Sayyar, the former Deputy Minister of Educational Activities and the first woman in the UAE to earn a doctorate.

Building on these crucial beginnings, the importance of education continues to be championed by the enduring vision of HH Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, ‘Mother of the Nation’ and an inspiration to Emirati women. Her unwavering advocacy for women’s education and rights has been instrumental in laying the groundwork for women’s advancement in the UAE, including her pivotal role in launching Emirati Women’s Day itself.

The opening of Zayed University in 1998 marked another pivotal moment in the UAE’s efforts to promote the progression of Emirati women. This unwavering resolve to learning has unlocked doors, broadened perspectives, and equipped generations of Emirati women with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel on the global stage.

Breaking career barriers

Today, the increasing presence and profound impact of Emirati women across all sectors is undeniable. From the halls of government to the dynamic world of private enterprise, the intricate complexities of STEM fields, the burgeoning tourism industry and the vibrant expressions of arts and culture, Emirati women continue to take the spotlight.

Groundbreaking Emirati women, such as Sheikha Lubna Bint Khalid Al Qasimi (the first Emirati woman to assume a ministerial post as Minister of Economy in 2004) and Dr Amal Al Qubaisi (the first Emirati woman elected to the UAE’s Federal National Council in 2006 before becoming its president in 2015), amongst many others, are at the forefront of innovation, driving economic growth, and shaping policy.

We are witnessing a powerful shift as Emirati women are demonstrating exceptional leadership and expertise in roles that once seemed unimaginable, including significant global roles. A prime example is the recent appointment of Sheikha Nasser Al Nowais as the first female secretary-general of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), a testament to the calibre and international recognition of Emirati female leadership.

Mentorship and support systems

The role of mentorship cannot be overstated. It is through the invaluable wisdom and guidance offered by those who have navigated challenges that we truly learn from their successes and lessons in reaching our full potential. Furthermore, the broader societal and familial support structures within the UAE, coupled with progressive government policies, create a unique ecosystem that enables women to pursue their ambitions. The emphasis on work-life balance, the provision of childcare facilities, and the cultural appreciation for women’s multifaceted roles all contribute to an environment where professional aspirations can flourish alongside personal responsibilities.

As an Emirati woman, my role in nurturing talent at Miral and fostering an environment where everyone can thrive is deeply personal. It is gratifying to see individuals excel, knowing that their unique skills, varied perspectives, and unwavering drive are key contributors to our collective development and triumphs; guiding them on their individual paths is a privilege and an honour.

The journey of progress is continuous. With the unwavering support of our leadership, the strength of our community, and the inherent drive of Emirati women, there is no limit to what we can achieve. Together, hand in hand, I hope we continue to shape a future where every Emirati woman can realise her fullest potential and contribute to a nation that stands as a beacon of growth and opportunity for all.

Mariam Al Musharrekh is the CHRO at Miral.

Read: Women in AI is a strategic advantage for UAE, says TII’s Dr Najwa Aaraj

Marking this year’s Emirati Women’s Day 2025 theme, Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years, startAD at NYU Abu Dhabi has been highlighting women who have been driving the UAE’s innovation journey.

Since 2022, the Emirati Women Achievers campaign, by startAD at NYU Abu Dhabi, has recognised and celebrated more than 100 inspiring Emirati women who are furthering the UAE’s innovation mandate in their roles as entrepreneurs, investors, corporate and government professionals, and advocates for innovation.

Here, five of startAD’s Emirati Women Achievers 2024, speak about what it means to them to be recognised and what the theme Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years means to them.

Tala Al Ramahi, director at Office of Development Affairs,
Presidential Court

I represent the Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity, an innovative philanthropy based in the UAE, dedicated to advancing human potential and opportunity. In this role, I work in service of the foundation’s mission to drive sustainable progress in global health and inclusive development, for the benefit of communities worldwide. I work with an incredible team to drive the foundation’s efforts to strengthen health systems, combat preventable diseases, and unlock opportunity for those who need it most.

As I have progressed in my career, my greatest joy and fulfilment have come from serving the UAE’s pioneering role in global development and from standing alongside communities around the world to help them thrive. This recognition is deeply humbling — not as a personal achievement alone, but as a reflection of the values instilled in me by my country and the generations of Emirati women who have paved the way. It reaffirms my commitment to giving back to the UAE, honouring its vision, and carrying forward its legacy of compassion, innovation, and leadership on the global stage.

Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years, this year’s theme is a powerful reminder of the collective journey we have taken as Emirati women, hand in hand with our nation’s leadership, over the past five decades. It speaks to the spirit of partnership, unity, and shared purpose that has shaped the UAE’s remarkable progress.

We stand today on the shoulders of trailblazers who defied limitations and redefined possibilities, and we carry that responsibility forward — to empower the next generation, to lead with courage and empathy, and to ensure that our contributions continue to uplift our nation and resonate far beyond our borders.

Nawal Al Hanaee, director of Future Energy department, Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure

As director of the Future Energy Department at the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, my work focuses on accelerating the country’s transition to clean energy and shaping policies that support innovation and sustainability.

Being named as an Emirati Woman Achiever, through startAD at NYU Abu Dhabi, is a profound honour, which reflects our nation’s commitment to empowering women and inspires me to continue breaking barriers for the next generation.

This year’s theme, Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years, is a powerful reminder that progress is a collective journey. It honors the legacy of our founding mothers and fathers while reinforcing our shared responsibility to build a brighter, more inclusive future.

Dr Muna Alayyan, executive director, Saqr Hospital

As a hospital director and breast surgeon, my current focus lies in leading healthcare innovation and enhancing early cancer detection programmes across the UAE.

Being recognised as an Emirati Women Achiever by startAD at NYUAD is both an honour and a responsibility. It represents the legacy of strong Emirati Women and fuels my commitment to serve the community.

This year’s Emirati Women’s Day theme beautifully reflects our nation’s progress through unity, vision, and the vital role of women in shaping the future.

Maryam Sadiq, acting head of the Security Inspection Devices Department, Dubai Police

I am privileged to be the first Emirati female military engineer to be internationally certified in the maintenance and operation of airport security inspection systems. This is a field critical to both national and global aviation security. As part of the elite force within the General Department of Airport Security Dubai Police, I lead efforts to safeguard passengers, aircraft, and cargo using cutting edge technologies, while integrating AI and machine learning to elevate threat detection and inspection efficiency.

In parallel with my engineering role, I proudly serve as the first Emirati female military engineer to hold leadership positions in the UAE, Arab, and Asian Boxing Federations. I also represent the UAE as the official voting delegate in global boxing congresses roles historically dominated by men.

Breaking through these barriers was not only a personal triumph, but a national statement: Emirati women are equipped, empowered, and ready to lead with strength and purpose across every field, on every stage.

To be selected by startAD at NYUAD as an Emirati Woman Achiever is not merely a personal milestone; it is a tribute to every woman who dared to rise, and to a nation that believed in her potential. It symbolises the UAE’s unshakable commitment to empowering women to lead, innovate, and shape the future across all domains.

It is also a heartfelt message to every Emirati girl: Yes, I was the first to break through in this field, but you are the future. You are the force that will carry this legacy forward, expand its reach, and redefine what’s possible for the generations to come.

This year’s theme is a powerful reminder that our nation’s strength lies in unity between generations, between genders, and between vision and determination.

Together, we honour the past, celebrate the present, and shape the future hand in hand, just as Emirati women have always done, writing stories of leadership, breaking barriers, and building the future alongside their nation, every step of the way.

Marwa Al Mamari, specialist – Accident Prevention and Safety Recommendations, General Civil Aviation Authority

As an aerospace engineer and academic, my current focus lies in advancing aviation safety through artificial intelligence and inspiring the next generation through education.

I was also named as an Emirati Woman Achiever by startAD at NYUAD, which was both humbling and empowering as it reflects the vision of our leadership and the limitless potential of Emirati women.

This year’s theme, ‘Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years’, is a powerful reminder that our collective progress is rooted in unity, resilience, and shared ambition

The smooth and sustainable transition in the energy sector stands as one of the greatest challenges of our time. Its success does not rest solely on the strength of technology or the scale of investment, but equally on a fundamental component: people.

At the heart of this human dimension is the pioneering role of Emirati women, whose presence and contributions have become an integral part of the nation’s institutional identity, shaping the future of both the public and private sectors.

Since the establishment of the Union more than 50 years ago, the UAE’s leadership has ensured that Emirati women are essential and equal partners alongside men across all fields. This vision is clearly reflected in vital sectors, most notably energy and water.

Today, it is certain that Emirati women have become a driving force in shaping the energy landscape, thanks to their growing presence in technical and leadership roles, and their creative capabilities that enable innovative solutions for a more sustainable future.

At the core of technical and field work

The role of Emirati women is no longer confined to administrative responsibilities where they have long excelled, but now extends to technical, operational, and field work that requires advanced skills and strong determination. This transformation is clearly visible across the sector.

The impact of this shift is reflected not just in numbers but in the scope of responsibilities they undertake: operating plants, managing networks, overseeing field operations, and playing a pivotal role in projects that support the transition to smart and renewable energy.

Leading strategic change

Emirati women are also proving their ability to lead strategic change. They are increasingly heading departments focused on digital transformation, renewable energy, and sustainability, moving beyond supportive roles to take charge of the very pillars that will define the future.

This progress is closely aligned with the UAE’s national strategy to cut emissions and strengthen energy security.

The diverse perspectives Emirati women bring —from fieldwork to the boardroom — enrich decision-making, drive innovation, and provide essential insights for developing comprehensive solutions to the sector’s most pressing challenges.

Looking ahead

Empowering national talent is a vital investment in the country’s future. The remarkable achievements of Emirati women in the energy sector stand as clear evidence of the UAE’s commitment to building a sustainable, knowledge-driven economy.

Their continued integration and leadership across all levels are not only critical to achieving strategic objectives, but also a reflection of the UAE’s vision for a sustainable future for generations to come.

Engineer Yousif Ahmed Al Ali is the CEO, Etihad Water & Electricity (EtihadWE)

Doniyor Kadirov, CEO of Rushmore Group, shares how strategic foresight, disciplined execution, and cross-cultural insight drive his EPC ventures from Central Asia to the GCC

You have founded and scaled multi-sectoral ventures, what do you see as the common success factors in engineering, energy, and trading?

Whether we’re delivering turnkey infrastructure or coordinating complex energy systems, what matters most is our ability to align technical execution with long-term reliability and client satisfaction. We maintain strict engineering discipline while staying responsive to meet shifting project demands, ensuring consistent success across various sectors.

What are the challenges you face when executing projects in difficult terrains?

Remote and logistically isolated environments test every aspect of an EPC contractor’s capability, planning, mobilisation, compliance, and risk mitigation. At the Khandiza mine in Uzbekistan, for example, we led a full EPC deployment under extreme terrain conditions. As the consortium coordinator, we managed all engineering deliverables, procurement schedules, and site operations. The key is integrating feasibility with execution readiness from day one, especially in hard-to-access project locations.

With operations spanning Dubai, Hong Kong, and Central Asia, how do you manage cross-border business integration and corporate governance?

EPC projects by nature are cross-border, multi-stakeholder endeavours. Our operational model reflects that complexity: it combines centralised technical oversight with decentralised execution agility. Each regional EPC office is empowered to adapt to local regulations and supply chains, while remaining aligned with our global project standards. From engineering design validation to procurement control, our digital infrastructure ensures that transparency and compliance remain intact at every level of execution.

How has your background in philology shaped your approach to negotiations and stakeholder engagement?

It’s given me a unique advantage. In EPC contracting, you’re often mediating between governments, local communities, suppliers, and engineering teams. My background helps me read between the lines, adapt to diverse cultural expectations, and build consensus where others may see conflict. These soft skills are indispensable when securing project approvals, negotiating with authorities, or structuring joint ventures across multiple jurisdictions with several stakeholders.

You’ve grown from academia to leading industrial and infrastructure companies. How did that career transition unfold?

It began with a drive to make ideas actionable. I was drawn to infrastructure because it’s where vision becomes structure, where blueprints become real-world outcomes. EPC provided that bridge. Over time, I realised the acute need in emerging markets for firms that can execute start-to-finish: from engineering and permitting, to procurement, and through to commissioning and guaranteed maintenance. That’s what drove the formation of Rushmore.

How do you identify which sectors and projects are worth investing in?

We assess projects primarily through the lens of EPC feasibility and national infrastructure strategy. If a sector offers long-term demand and we can deliver engineering and construction value within it, it becomes a strategic target. From mining logistics hubs to energy transmission infrastructure, we back initiatives that are technically viable, economically sustainable, and aligned with our core project delivery strengths.

Another aspect of being an EPC contractor is that we have more failed bids on projects rather than successful bids, so even if we invest in preparing for a project, it doesn’t mean that we will be the ones implementing it.

How do you integrate sustainable practices into large-scale industrial projects?

Sustainable engineering is not a buzzword, it’s a deliverable. In our EPC scope, we embed sustainability into every stage: from design efficiency and materials selection to emissions reduction and worker safety. We optimise fleet logistics to cut fuel use, use modular construction to limit site disruption, and invest in clean-tech integrations wherever possible and feasible. We believe the future of EPC lies in balancing industrial scale with environmental responsibility.

What role does strategic investment play in bridging opportunities between Asian manufacturers and Middle Eastern or Central Asian markets?

Our EPC contracts often act as a bridge between Asian manufacturers and end-users in the Middle East and Central Asia. The manufacturers bring large-scale, cost-effective production, while we ensure their products are adapted to local markets, compliant with regulations, and fully operable in MENA and Central Asia. Through strategic joint ventures and supply chain EPC services, we de-risk industrial entry into high-growth markets and align execution with regional policies and standards.

What’s your vision for Rushmore Holdings?

Our goal is to become a trusted infrastructure and industrial partner across resource-rich economies, from Central Asia to the GCC. Whether it’s upstream oilfield development, mineral processing plants, or energy corridor infrastructure, Rushmore is committed to delivering high-impact, technically sound projects. Over the next decade, we aim to lead the industrial modernisation of emerging markets, setting new benchmarks in EPC reliability, localisation, and sustainability.