UAE Women’s Forum Celebrates Achievements And Leadership

Post by : Mumtaaz Qadiri

The Emirati Women’s Forum recently gathered senior officials, experts, entrepreneurs, and youth to celebrate the achievements of women in the UAE. The event highlighted success stories in government, diplomacy, business, innovation, and sustainability. The forum demonstrated the UAE leadership’s vision of empowering women as important partners in national development and global representation.

The forum served as a platform to share inspiring stories and showcase role models who have made a difference in their respective fields. It emphasized the UAE’s commitment to women’s empowerment and the importance of including women in leadership positions across all sectors.

Emirati Women Diplomats Share Insights

In a special session, Amna Fikri, UAE Ambassador to Finland and Estonia, spoke about the important role of Emirati women in diplomacy. She highlighted how pioneering women diplomats represent the UAE on the global stage. She credited the country’s leadership for providing guidance and support that enabled their achievements.

Amna Fikri shared her early interest in international relations and her determination to pursue a diplomatic career. She also spoke about the mentorship she received, especially from H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs. She praised H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation, for inspiring Emirati women and supporting their empowerment both locally and internationally.

Overcoming Challenges In Diplomacy

Amna Fikri also discussed the challenges faced by women in diplomacy. She mentioned cultural differences, distance from home, and other obstacles. Despite these challenges, she explained that focus and dedication allow women to represent the UAE with distinction. She encouraged young women interested in diplomacy to work hard and make the most of the opportunities provided by the UAE leadership.

Her speech emphasized the importance of determination, mentorship, and vision in building a successful career in diplomacy, inspiring aspiring female diplomats to follow their dreams.

Women Leaders In Government

In another session, Hessa Buhumaid, Director General of Dubai’s Community Development Authority, and Aisha Miran, Director General of Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority, highlighted the growing role of women in government.

Buhumaid spoke about the contributions of Emirati women over the past 50 years in education, leadership, and community development. She stressed the importance of embracing opportunities while staying true to Emirati values and identity.

Miran emphasized that Emirati women’s participation in government serves as a model for the region and the world. She praised initiatives led by H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak and H.H. Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. She also highlighted the role of family support in balancing professional and personal life for women leaders.

Empowering Youth And Nation-Building

Khaled Al Nuaimi, Director of the Federal Youth Authority, spoke about the role of Emirati women in the UAE’s development and nation-building. He stressed that empowering women, particularly young women, is a strategic priority. This enables women to contribute effectively in sectors like the economy, diplomacy, innovation, and social work.

Al Nuaimi noted that the Authority actively involves young Emirati women in councils, initiatives, and national programs. He highlighted that women make up over 73% of local youth council members and 48% of participants in the Emirates Youth Global Initiative, demonstrating the UAE’s commitment to nurturing young female talent.

Women Driving Private Sector Growth

Shayma Alawadhi, Acting Undersecretary for Labour Market Development & Regulation, spoke about women’s growing contributions to the private sector and Emiratisation. She highlighted that Emirati women are taking on new challenges, showing competence and innovation.

Alawadhi mentioned that women under the age of 35 make up more than 70% of Emirati employees in the private sector. She emphasized their growing role in economic development, leadership in specialized fields such as AI, renewable energy, and the digital economy. She also spoke about initiatives like the Nafis program and supportive workplace policies that empower women and encourage continuous professional development.

Entrepreneurship And Leadership Success

Souad Jamal AlSerkal, Founder and CEO of Comm-Cation Consultancy, shared her journey in entrepreneurship and leadership. She highlighted the UAE’s supportive environment for women, which has enabled them to succeed in different sectors.

AlSerkal stressed the importance of perseverance, self-belief, and hard work. She encouraged young women to embrace challenges, explaining that each step forward brings them closer to their goals. Her story inspired attendees to pursue leadership opportunities and contribute to national development.

Achievements Of Young Emirati Women

The forum also celebrated the achievements of the younger generation of Emirati women. Aysha Al Obeidli, the UAE’s youngest Emirati chef, shared her passion for culinary arts. She demonstrated that creativity and excellence are possible at any age and encouraged youth to follow their dreams with dedication.

Ghaya Al Ahbabi, the youngest UNICEF ambassador for COP28, spoke about her commitment to sustainability and environmental advocacy. She highlighted her volunteer work and the importance of representing the UAE globally. Both young women demonstrated the UAE’s commitment to empowering women and youth, showing how ambition and dedication can make a meaningful impact.

Dubai’s Commitment To Women Empowerment

Amna Al Suwaidi, Acting CEO of the Future Resources Sector and Director of Policies and Programmes Support Department at the Dubai Government Human Resources Department, spoke about Dubai’s initiatives to empower women. She highlighted programs that support work-life balance, continuous training, mentorship, and gender-balanced leadership.

Al Suwaidi emphasized that women play a central role in driving Dubai’s progress and global leadership. She stressed that supporting women in leadership and development positions ensures sustainable growth and strengthens the city’s global standing.

Celebrating The 10th Emirati Women’s Day

Organized by the Dubai Women Establishment, the Emirati Women’s Forum is the premier event celebrating Emirati Women’s Day. The forum marks the 10th anniversary of the day, which was announced in 2015 by H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation.

The event, held at The Ritz-Carlton in Dubai International Financial Centre, featured ten panel discussions. These discussions highlighted the UAE’s achievements in advancing women’s empowerment, leadership, and participation in all areas of society. The forum showcased how Emirati women contribute to the nation’s sustainable development and global representation.

A Nation Supporting Women Leaders

The Emirati Women’s Forum highlighted the UAE’s strong commitment to empowering women in all sectors. From diplomacy and government to business, innovation, and sustainability, Emirati women are making a significant impact.

The forum also celebrated young women, showing that age is not a barrier to creativity, leadership, or success. The UAE leadership’s initiatives, mentorship programs, and supportive environment ensure that women are equal partners in the nation’s development. This event inspired future leaders to pursue their dreams and contribute to the country’s progress with dedication and ambition.

Emirati women empowerment, Women leadership achievements