UAE to Celebrate 50 Years of Women’s Role in 2025

Photo: WAM

Under the wise guidance of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, also known as “The Mother of the Nation,” the official theme for Emirati Women's Day 2025 has been announced. This year’s theme is “Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years.” This announcement marks a very special moment for the UAE as the country celebrates 50 years since the founding of the General Women’s Union (GWU) in 1975.

Who Is Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak?

Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak is not only the Chairwoman of the General Women's Union, but she also holds several other important positions. She is the President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood and the Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation (FDF). Over the years, she has worked hard to support and empower women in the UAE and has played a key role in promoting equality and opportunity for all Emirati women.

Her continued support and leadership have made a big difference in shaping the lives of women in the UAE. Under her leadership, the UAE has become one of the most supportive countries for women’s rights and gender equality in the region.

Why Is This Year’s Theme Important?

The 2025 theme, “Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years,” is very meaningful. It is not just a slogan. It reflects the spirit of unity, partnership, and shared success that has guided the journey of Emirati women for the last five decades. The phrase “Hand in Hand” also connects with another national initiative—the ‘Year of Community’—which was announced by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This shows how closely connected the goals of Emirati Women's Day are with the country’s broader vision of social unity and cooperation.

This year's Emirati Women's Day falls on August 28, 2025, and it will be extra special because it celebrates 50 years since the creation of the General Women's Union—an institution that has supported women’s development in many ways over the years.

The Story of the General Women’s Union

The General Women's Union (GWU) was established in 1975, just four years after the formation of the United Arab Emirates in 1971. It was created with the vision of building a strong platform to support women across the country—educationally, socially, and economically. The Union has worked on many programs and initiatives that have helped women gain access to education, join the workforce, and become leaders in various fields such as government, business, science, health, and education.

Thanks to the work of the GWU and the leadership of Sheikha Fatima, women in the UAE have grown into important contributors to the country's development. They are not just participants but key partners in shaping the nation’s future.

What Does “Hand in Hand” Really Mean?

When we say “Hand in Hand,” we mean working together—men and women, young and old, individuals and institutions. The phrase represents unity and cooperation. It means that everyone, regardless of their gender, age, or background, plays an important role in helping the UAE grow and develop.

It also means that the achievements of Emirati women are not only personal successes but national achievements. The country has made it clear that when women succeed, the entire nation benefits. Empowering women is seen as one of the most important steps towards sustainable development, economic progress, and social harmony.

The Role of Community and National Unity

The choice of this year’s theme also highlights the importance of community, especially during this landmark celebration. It reminds everyone in the UAE that social cohesion and community involvement are key to achieving national goals.

President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s 2025 “Year of Community” focuses on bringing people together, building stronger relationships, and encouraging everyone to take part in the progress of the country. Emirati Women's Day and its theme fit perfectly into this larger national mission.

A National Celebration of Women's Achievements

Emirati Women's Day is not just a day to say “thank you” to women. It is a day to honor their hard work, celebrate their success, and recognize their essential role in society. Over the past 50 years, Emirati women have proven themselves in every field. They have become ministers, scientists, doctors, astronauts, engineers, teachers, entrepreneurs, and much more.

They have shown that when given the right support, women can lead, innovate, and inspire.

Sheikha Fatima’s Long-Term Vision for Women

Sheikha Fatima’s vision for Emirati women has always been clear and focused. She believes that empowering women is not just about giving them rights—it’s about investing in the future of the country. Her efforts have led to the creation of programs, training centers, workshops, and educational opportunities for women of all ages and backgrounds.

She also emphasizes the importance of culture and identity. Emirati women are encouraged to move forward with modern skills and knowledge while preserving their traditions, values, and national identity.

Her leadership has built what is now an integrated system of support, rooted in empowerment, solidarity, and national pride.

What Can We Learn from This Year’s Theme?

This year’s theme teaches us some important lessons:

1. Unity is strength. When people work together—men and women, young and old—they can achieve great things.
2. Celebrating the past helps build the future. Looking back on 50 years of success inspires everyone to keep going.
3. Women are at the heart of national progress. Investing in their growth benefits everyone in the society.

As the UAE looks forward to the next 50 years, the focus will remain on empowerment, equality, and innovation. The success of Emirati women so far is just the beginning. With continued support, guidance, and opportunity, they are expected to achieve even greater heights in the years to come.

On August 28, 2025, the entire nation will join hands to celebrate the power, strength, and achievements of Emirati women. This special day will not only reflect on what has been achieved, but also renew the promise to support women in the future.