This year, Emirati Women’s Day introduces a month-long national initiative from August 28 to September 28.

Observed under the theme “We Emerge Stronger and Better”, Emirati Women’s Day recognises women’s leadership, achievements, and impactful contributions to the UAE’s continued growth and development.

To mark the occasion, leaders from across the UAE share the lessons, experiences and advice that have shaped their careers, offering the next generation perspectives on leadership, resilience, opportunity and creating meaningful impact.

Alya AlZarouni

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, DIFC AUTHORITY

Observing the UAE today, we see a nation built on the pillars of vision, determination, ambition and resilience. This inspiring reality did not happen by chance; it was shaped by the dedication, intellect, strength of will and heart of Emirati women. Going forward, it is their unique perspective and leadership that will guide us toward a sustainable future, where progress and care go hand in hand.

On Emirati Women’s Day, we take a moment to celebrate the women who are making history and breaking barriers every day. Whether in finance, science, technology, sustainability, or business, women are strengthening their presence, and their dedication keeps moving our nation forward.

We see this every day at DIFC, where Emirati women are shaping the future of finance. They bring empathy, sharp vision, and exceptional talent to our community. As they continue to break new ground across the financial sector, their leadership will play an essential role in shaping both DIFC’s future and the continued success of the UAE.

Amna Al Owais

DEPUTY DIRECTOR, DIFC COURTS

There was no template to follow and no established path for an Emirati woman to take on such a challenge. In those early years, women were often underrepresented in the room, but commitment, perseverance and credibility helped create a path that is now more open for the generations that follow.

That is what ‘We Emerge Stronger and Better’ means to me above all else. It’s not just for one day in August; it reflects how the women of this country work. We grow stronger through the process of building, leading and creating services with a clear purpose — turning ideas into something that makes a meaningful difference.

Twenty years in, I believe in the same thing I did on the first day: when you have a purpose with will and determination, nothing is impossible; that is what our leadership taught us. We emerge stronger and better through what we build, one service and one decision at a time.

Azzah AlSharhan

CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER, MIRAL

As the UAE celebrates Emirati Women’s Day, I am reminded of how fortunate we are to live in a nation that consistently creates opportunities for women to thrive. Guided by a vision that has invested in people, opened doors and championed inclusion across every sector, the UAE has enabled generations of Emirati women to contribute with purpose and play an integral role in our country’s success and always “to emerge stronger and better”, in line with this year’s theme.

For me, this day is also a reminder of the responsibility that comes with those opportunities. Looking back on my own career over the past two and a half decades, some of the defining moments have come when seeing talented Emiratis discover confidence, embrace new challenges and grow into leaders themselves. Those experiences have shaped my purpose and reinforced my belief that leadership is ultimately about creating the conditions for others to succeed.

My message to the next generation of Emirati women is to embrace every opportunity to learn and grow. Stay curious and true to your values and remember that resilience is built through every experience.

Basma AlBadi AlDhaheri

HEAD OF GROWTH AND VALUE CREATION, HUB71

One of the most rewarding parts of my role is seeing how the right connection at the right time can completely change a startup’s journey. Every startup is solving a different challenge, and every partner has different priorities. My role is to listen, understand where those needs align and help bring the right people together. Sometimes that leads to an investment or a commercial partnership, and sometimes it opens the door to opportunities that weren’t visible before. Being part of that journey and supporting founders as they navigate challenges is what makes my work so meaningful.

As an Emirati woman, I am incredibly proud to be part of an environment that empowers women to lead and make a meaningful impact. My advice to younger Emirati women is to believe in yourself, stay curious and never be afraid to ask questions or put yourself forward. Some of the most meaningful opportunities begin with a simple conversation and the confidence to take the first step. Your perspective matters, so trust it, keep learning and don’t be afraid to put yourself forward. You never know where that first step might lead.

Bushra Al Shehhi

CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER, ADIB

The UAE’s transformation has been driven by its investment in people. Emirati Women’s Day is a celebration of the achievements of Emirati women who continue to make meaningful contributions across industries, while also recognising the importance of building workplaces where talent can thrive.

As a leader in human resources, I have learned that the strength of any organisation is defined by its people. Strategies, technologies, and processes are important, but sustainable success depends on having individuals who are empowered, engaged, and equipped with the capabilities needed to navigate change.

For young Emirati women entering the workforce, I would encourage them to embrace learning as a lifelong journey. The workplace is constantly evolving, and the ability to adapt, collaborate, and develop new skills will remain essential to effective leadership. Seek experiences that broaden your perspective, learn from different viewpoints, and approach challenges as opportunities to grow.

Leadership is ultimately about impact. It is about the standards we set, the culture we help shape, and the process through which we bring out the best in those around us. When organisations invest in their people, they build stronger teams, more resilient businesses, and contribute to the UAE’s continued progress.”

Eman AlBastaki

DIRECTOR OF EMIRATISATION AND GOVERNMENT RELATIONS, AWR GROUP

Emirati Women’s Day is a reminder that the UAE’s progress has always been shaped by people who think beyond themselves and beyond the present. My advice to the next generation, especially young Emirati women, is to approach sustainability as part of everyday decision-making. It means asking whether our choices create lasting value, whether our work strengthens our communities, and whether we are prepared for the needs of a changing economy. Ambition is important, but so are curiosity, adaptability and ownership. Seek experiences that challenge you, keep building your capabilities, and do not measure progress only by titles.

This is the belief reflected in Wa’ed, AWR Group’s national talent development platform, which creates structured pathways for Emirati talent to gain exposure, strengthen capability and grow into roles where they can make a sustained contribution.

For mentors and leaders, our responsibility goes beyond solely offering advice. We must recognise potential, open doors and create environments where young people are tested, trusted and heard. Effective mentorship combines guidance with opportunity, while also listening to the fresh perspectives the next generation brings.

Fatima Alshamsi

Fatma Ashkanani

CHIEF PEOPLE AND CULTURE OFFICER, KHAZNA DATA CENTERS

My advice to young Emirati women is simple: do not wait until you feel completely ready before stepping forward. Confidence is rarely something we begin with; it is built through experience, by taking on challenges, asking questions, learning from setbacks and recognising the value of our own perspective. The UAE has created extraordinary opportunities for women to contribute across technology, infrastructure, science, business and many other fields shaping our future. Make the most of those opportunities by remaining curious and continuously developing your skills. Your presence matters, and so does the contribution you make once you are there.

I would also encourage young women to build strong networks and seek mentors who will challenge, support and advocate for them. As you progress, create opportunities for others, share what you have learned and help make the path more visible for the women who follow. Emirati women have already demonstrated that ambition, empathy and resilience are powerful leadership qualities. Step forward with confidence, use your voice and never underestimate your ability to shape meaningful change.

Fatmah Alkaabi

ADVISOR, DG OFFICE, ABU DHABI EARLY CHILDHOOD AUTHORITY

Being an Emirati woman is not only about being a mother, daughter, sister, or caregiver deeply rooted in our culture and identity; it is also about leadership — in the workplace and the wider community. As an aunt to many children, I’ve seen first-hand how encouraging curiosity and challenging young minds shapes confidence, resilience, and future ambition. These values stay with us into adulthood.

As we mark Emirati Women’s Day, we must recognise that women’s empowerment, family wellbeing, and national progress are closely connected. Real support is reflected in everyday moments: a working mother attending her child’s school event without fearing for her career, or returning from maternity leave with the flexibility, confidence, and encouragement to continue progressing.

I encourage organisations to reflect on how they enable every woman to thrive at home, at work, and in the community. When women are supported to balance ambition and caregiving, families grow stronger, children thrive, and the nation moves forward.

Hind Almansoori

PEOPLE DIRECTOR, INNOVO BUILD UAE

My journey across multiple business sectors has reinforced one core belief: your ambition should never be limited by traditional perceptions of an industry. When I entered construction, I discovered a dynamic, evolving environment where women are increasingly making an impact, from project sites to leadership and the boardroom.

In the UAE, we are fortunate to be part of a nation that has championed women’s participation and created opportunities for Emirati women to contribute, lead and shape the future.

At Innovo, I’ve seen that genuine inclusion goes beyond representation; it is about creating meaningful opportunities, providing operational exposure and, importantly, giving women the trust to influence business decisions and lead.

For the next generation of Emirati women, my message is this: be curious, be confident and embrace opportunities that challenge you. Build your capabilities and credibility through what you deliver, use your voice with purpose, and don’t just take a seat at the table, help shape what comes next.

Iman Alomrani

CHIEF DIGITAL ADVISOR FOR MENAT, AMAZON WEB SERVICES (AWS)

On fostering a culture of sustainability: Over the years, whether it was a peer-to-peer conversation or a full-fledged transformation, what I know for sure is that nothing meaningful happens single-handedly. When thinking about your career, building a sustainable future starts with self-awareness and ends with value and impact delivered to those around you. This is your flywheel. Keep it oiled throughout your life. Know your principles and values. Technologies evolve exponentially. What separates winners is how fast people adapt and leverage these tools to optimise their business processes. Speed matters. Self-awareness matters. Knowing your business matters.

My advice for the next generation draws from exceptional mentors who invested time in helping me build my own thinking and perception. Creating environments where people feel safe experimenting matters, but what matters more is giving mentees the channel to share their self-reflection and their truths without judgement. As a mentee and as a mentor, I know that self-development is never complete. It’s a lifelong journey. Model that journey openly. Yet, be that person in their corner who champions their growth.

Maiyas Al Hammadi

MANAGER, BUSINESS ENABLEMENT PROGRAMS, CORE42

Emirati Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the ambition, resilience and achievements of women who continue to shape the UAE’s progress. As an Emirati woman working at the heart of the nation’s sovereign AI journey, I feel that pride deeply. Not long ago, technology was seen as a field where women watched on the sidelines. Today, we are writing the code, shaping strategy, and leading the teams building the infrastructure of tomorrow. We have challenged expectations, broken barriers and created new possibilities for the generations that will follow.

Across Core42 and the wider technology ecosystem, I see Emirati women leading in engineering, AI infrastructure, and digital transformation, turning national ambition into everyday reality. Their perspectives, ideas and leadership are strengthening the sector and proving that innovation thrives when diverse voices are represented. This year’s theme, ‘Together, We Rise Stronger and Better’, captures exactly where we stand. The future belongs to a generation of Emirati women who will not simply ask for a seat at the table but design the table itself. That is the history we are creating, together.

Maryam AlMazrouei

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT (CIS), MASDAR

To the next generation of Emirati women, my advice is to focus on the impact you want to make and invest intentionally in the skills, knowledge, and relationships that will help you achieve it. We are fortunate to be part of a nation that believes in women, supports our potential, and empowers us to lead and contribute.

With that opportunity comes a responsibility to keep learning, step beyond our comfort zones, and ensure our voices are heard where decisions are made. My own journey has shown me that growth comes from curiosity, courage, and a willingness to embrace new challenges.

Do not just prepare for the future; help shape it. And as you succeed, create opportunities and pave the way for those who follow. The achievements of Emirati women are not only personal milestones; they are part of the UAE’s ongoing progress and ambition.

Mubaraka Ibrahim

CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER AND CHIEF AI OFFICER, EMIRATES HEALTH SERVICES

What I have learned through leading transformation is that the future is never secured by technology alone. It is secured by people who understand the weight of their decisions and are prepared to take responsibility for what those decisions create. My advice to the next generation is not simply to learn more, but to learn how to think. Question what is accepted. Understand the problem before pursuing the solution. Do not confuse speed with progress or visibility with impact. The most meaningful innovation is often the work that quietly improves a life, strengthens an institution, or creates an opportunity that did not exist before.

Mentorship carries the same responsibility. A mentor should not create dependence or followers. A mentor should build confidence, sharpen judgment, open doors, and then have the courage to allow others to lead. The true measure of mentorship is not how closely someone follows your path, but how boldly they are able to create their own.

The UAE has taught us that ambition and responsibility are not competing values. They are strongest when they advance together.

Dr Noora Almarzooqi

LEAD RESEARCHER, RENEWABLE AND SUSTAINABLE ENERGY RESEARCH CENTER (RSERC) – WATER TECHNOLOGIES, TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION INSTITUTE (TII)

You are strong. You are capable. You are the daughter of a nation that believes in you and has given you every opportunity to dream, lead, and succeed.

Never underestimate your voice, your potential, or the positive impact you can make.

Stay true to your values, believe in yourself, embrace every opportunity to learn and grow, and remember that every step you take today helps shape a brighter future for the generations of Emirati women who will follow.

Noora Alzaabi

DOCUMENTATION PHOTOGRAPHER, LOUVRE ABU DHABI

It is inspiring to see so many Emirati women in leading roles as directors and ministers, but also in highly specialised and complex fields, using their education and self-motivation to contribute to the advancement of our society.

In my personal journey, this is reflected in my decision to enter a niche and highly specialised field in technical and scientific imaging of cultural heritage. It has allowed me to pursue something I genuinely love, continue my education, develop my expertise, and contribute through a field that is still relatively uncommon in the Gulf.

One of the greatest influences on the advancement of Emirati women was the vision of the Father of the Nation, Sheikh Zayed, may his soul rest in peace, when he said: “Nothing could delight me more than to see the woman taking up her distinctive position in society. Nothing should hinder her progress.” He laid the foundations for all our great leaders who followed, continuing to support and empower the women of this nation.

Personally, the greatest support in achieving my goals has been the unwavering support of my parents. They have always been proud of me, trusted me completely, and had confidence in the decisions I have made throughout my journey. Having that trust and encouragement behind me has given me the freedom and confidence to pursue the path I chose.

I have also been fortunate to have the support of my workplace, Louvre Abu Dhabi, which has invested in my education and development, believed in my abilities, and continuously given me opportunities to learn and grow. That support has played an important role in shaping me into the person and professional I am today.

We must remember our roots and who we are. Our ancestors didn’t just survive; they thrived. That strength runs in our blood. It is our heritage, and it is our identity. We owe it to them to seize the opportunities we are given, to pursue education, to grow, and to do what we love. Just like them, we should thrive, not just survive.

Rawdha Al Meraikhi

ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT FOR NATIONAL ENGAGEMENT AND OUTREACH, MOHAMED BIN ZAYED UNIVERSITY OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (MBZUAI)

Emirati Women’s Day is a reminder of how far the UAE has come in creating opportunities for women to contribute across every sector, including emerging fields that can reshape the future, such as artificial intelligence.

I feel fortunate to contribute to this vision through my role at MBZUAI, where much of my work focuses on connecting the community. Whether it’s supporting initiatives that develop Emirati researchers, engaging young people or bringing together academia, government and industry, I have seen first-hand how collaboration creates opportunities.

My advice to young Emirati women is to stay curious and embrace opportunities that challenge you. AI is no longer confined to the technology sector; it’s transforming healthcare, education, culture and every part of our economy.

While technical skills are important, don’t underestimate communication, collaboration and empathy; these qualities will only grow more important as AI becomes part of every profession.

This is an exciting time for Emirati women to shape the future, not just to participate in it, but to lead it.

Rola Abu Manneh

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, UAE, MIDDLE EAST AND PAKISTAN, STANDARD CHARTERED

The opportunities available to Emirati women today are greater than ever before. The UAE has made the advancement of women and the development of national talent a strategic priority, creating an environment where women can build successful careers, lead organisations and contribute to the country’s continued progress. My advice to the next generation is simple: make the most of those opportunities by never stopping your own development.

Leadership is shaped long before you hold a leadership title. It begins with the values that guide your decisions, the people who influence your character and the experiences that challenge you to grow.

One of the most valuable lessons I have learnt is that professional growth comes from three things: responsibility, feedback and exposure. Seek opportunities to take ownership, because real responsibility develops decision-making and resilience in ways advice alone cannot. Welcome honest feedback, even when it is challenging, as this is the key to accelerating learning and growth. Equally important is exposure to different perspectives, experienced leaders and new experiences, all of which broaden your thinking and prepare you for greater responsibility. Above all, remember that confidence comes from preparation rather than certainty.

Safeya Al Jaafari

SENIOR MANAGER, TALENT DEVELOPMENT & EMIRATISATION, MASDAR CITY

On Emirati Women’s Day, at Masdar City, where Emiratis make up over half our workforce, I see representation turn into real leadership every day, through the people we invest in. My own path was shaped by watching a generation of Emirati women lead with confidence and authenticity, and by their commitment to bringing others up with them. That’s what pulled me toward talent development and Emiratisation in the first place, and it’s still what makes the work worthwhile: seeing someone else move forward and knowing I played some small part in it.

My advice to the next generation is the same thing those leaders showed me. Stay curious, earn your credibility through the work itself, and lead as yourself rather than trying to fit a mould. Success isn’t just what you achieve; it’s who you bring with you.

Shaikha Al Mehrzi

DIRECTOR OF CAMPAIGN COMMUNICATIONS, e&

This year, we mark not just Emirati Women’s Day, but Emirati Women’s Month. For the first time, a month has been dedicated to recognising the achievements and contributions of Emirati women. The occasion carries forward the vision of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Mother of the Nation, whose decades of support for women’s education, empowerment and participation have helped create opportunities for generations of Emirati women.

From the first female minister to the first astronaut and the first Emirati woman to climb Antarctica’s highest peak, there are inspiring firsts to celebrate. At the heart of these achievements is a shared devotion to our country and a desire to help it prosper.

For younger Emirati women starting their careers, the message is clear: believe in what you can achieve and do not be afraid to pursue ambitious goals. Seek opportunities to learn, listen to those who came before you and use your talents to contribute to the UAE’s future.

Emirati women have broken barriers across every sector while remaining deeply connected to our roots and traditions. With the support of our families, communities, and wise leadership, we can pursue opportunities that previous generations could only have dreamed of.

Confidence and self-belief come from within, but our elders have also instilled in us a sense of purpose. As we emerge stronger and better, every young Emirati woman can help shape the UAE’s next chapter. Happy Emirati Women’s Month.

Shamsah Rashed Alzahmi

HEAD OF OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE – EXPERIENCES AND ENTERTAINMENT DEPARTMENT, SHUROOQ

My advice to young Emirati women starting their professional journey is to embrace every opportunity to learn from the ground up and never underestimate the value of hands-on experience. Real growth is not achieved overnight. Across my journey with Shurooq and spearheading the Operational Excellence – Experiences and Entertainment Department, I have learned that true progress is built through daily consistency, taking genuine ownership of your responsibilities, and translating ambitious ideas into practical, sustainable results.

Growing step by step allows you to understand every level of your field, giving you a unique, well-rounded perspective as you advance into leadership. Be patient with your process, stay curious, and continuously invest in building your capabilities. True leadership is about how you show up every day, navigate complex challenges with resilience, and actively create opportunities for others. Never forget the power of lifting others as you rise: sharing your knowledge, mentoring trainees, and supporting your peers is what transforms individual achievement into meaningful, collective progress.

Start exactly where you are, trust in the depth of your preparation, and carry confidence in your potential. When you ground your work in purpose and adaptability, it will open doors you haven’t envisioned yet, ensuring that every challenge naturally becomes the foundation for your next step forward.

Taif Alhmoudi

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, VENTUREONE

Working at VentureOne has shown me that the most exciting opportunities often begin with a willingness to step into the unknown. My advice to young Emirati women is not to shrink yourself to fit into spaces you were born to influence. Never underestimate the value of your perspective, stay curious, build real knowledge, speak with confidence, and take on new challenges. Some of the greatest growth comes from embracing opportunities that push you beyond your comfort zone and staying completely committed once you do.

Seek out mentors who encourage you to think bigger. Don’t be afraid to ask the difficult questions. Stay true to your values, take ownership of your path, and remember to support other women as you grow. As Emirati women, we have a unique opportunity to contribute to the UAE’s innovation-driven future. Every step you take is not only shaping your own career but also helping build the next chapter of our nation’s success.

Umayma Abu Bakar

DEPUTY CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER, MUBADALA

Leadership feels very different today than it did even five years ago. With all the economic and geopolitical shifts, no leader has all the answers anymore. If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that certainty is a luxury. What people need from leaders isn’t perfection. It’s honesty, judgement and the confidence to keep moving. The job is to ask better questions, and then make good decisions with the information you have. We need to help our teams keep moving when the way forward isn’t immediately clear.

The longer I’ve worked in communications, the more convinced I’ve become that leadership begins with listening. It’s easy to focus on what we want to say. The harder part is understanding what people need, what’s worrying them, and what’s not being said. Listening creates trust, and trust allows people to move through uncertainty together.

That lesson feels even more relevant today. AI is changing every industry, and there isn’t a playbook for what comes next. All of us are learning as we go. Technology will keep changing, but that means good judgement is becoming more important.

At Mubadala, I see Emirati women developing as leaders across investment, technology, healthcare, sustainability, communications and other strategic fields. They are gaining exposure to complex work, contributing to consequential decisions, and building the capabilities required for the future.

Emirati Women’s Day is an opportunity to recognise that progress, but also the responsibility it creates. To younger Emirati women, my advice is simple: don’t spend your career trying to become someone else’s version of a leader. Know what you’re good at. Stay curious. Build trust through your actions. Create opportunities for others as you progress. Technology will keep changing, but the relationships you build will become the infrastructure that enables growth, collaboration and lasting progress. Strong relationships create opportunities, unlock collective potential and help you navigate change with confidence

————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————-

SPOTLIGHT

Dr Khadija Al Marashda

CEO, SEHA CLINICS, VISIONARY LEADER, INNOVATOR, CHAMPION OF PREVENTIVE AND COMMUNITY CARE

“Leadership is about creating lasting impact. It’s about building systems that empower people to live healthier lives today while laying the foundation for future generations,” says Dr Khadija Al Marashda.

As global healthcare shifts from reactive treatment to preventive care and proactive wellness, Dr Al Marashda stands at the forefront of this transformation in the UAE. An Emirati woman, consultant physician and accomplished executive, she leads SEHA CLINICS — Abu Dhabi’s trusted healthcare provider and a key subsidiary of Pure Health, making accessible multispecialty care as the strategic foundation of a sustainable, future-ready healthcare system. Through strategic foresight, innovation, talent empowerment, and unwavering focus on patient impact, she shapes a modern paradigm of sustainable healthcare solutions that balances multispecialty expertise and technology with deep human connection.

Her leadership is defined by a clear commitment to advancing sustainable, value-based healthcare systems that align with national priorities while addressing the evolving needs of patients and communities.

REDEFINING HEALTHCARE AT SCALE

Under Dr Al Marashda’s strategic direction, SEHA CLINICS operates an expansive network of over 37 healthcare centres, 19 visa screening facilities, and more than 200 school health clinics across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra, managing over four million patient visits annually.

By championing integrated networks focused on preventive care, chronic disease management, and seamless digital care pathways, she directly aligns SEHA CLINICS with Abu Dhabi’s ambitious vision for a proactive, community-centered health ecosystem.

PIONEERING INNOVATION WITH A HUMAN TOUCH

As a passionate advocate for innovation and digital transformation, a key component of Dr Al Marashda’s forward-looking approach is the strategic integration of advanced health technologies. From deploying AI-assisted diagnostic solutions in radiology to pioneering early-detection tools for diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, she actively integrates next-generation tools to sharpen clinical decision-making.

Crucially, Dr Al Marashda maintains that innovation must augment — never replace —the essential human connection at the heart of patient care. Her forward-thinking strategy also ensures equitable access across all communities, leveraging mobile healthcare units and expanding services into underserved regions so that high-quality care reaches every individual.

EMPOWERING PEOPLE AND INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION

As a prominent Emirati woman leading large-scale transformation within strategic national industries, Dr Al Marashda embodies the UAE’s commitment to fostering top-tier national talent. Beyond technology and operations, she prioritises human capital, fostering a culture rooted in collaboration, continuous learning, and accountability.

By investing in workforce development as passionately as infrastructure, Dr Al Marashda continues to model what modern, visionary healthcare leadership looks like: driving institutional excellence today while safeguarding the health and well-being of the UAE for generations to come.