Celebration of Female Athletes at UAE's Fatima bint Mubarak Award

H.H. Sheikh Nahyan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Zayed Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, underscored the significance of the Fatima bint Mubarak Women’s Sports Award as a premier Arab initiative. He stated it honors exceptional female athletes and encourages them toward excellence while contributing to the growth of women’s sports year by year.

He elaborated that this initiative is in line with the UAE’s mission to empower women and foster an environment conducive to their success in various spheres. Sheikh Nahyan reaffirmed that the award illustrates the country's steadfast commitment to enhancing female participation in sports, both locally and regionally.

The award's success, he noted, is greatly attributed to the enduring support of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, affectionately known as the “Mother of the Nation.” Sheikha Fatima holds several esteemed positions, including Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and has been a pivotal force in advancing women's sports in the UAE and beyond.

Sheikh Nahyan also commended the contributions of Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who leads the Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy as well as Abu Dhabi and Al Ain Ladies Clubs. Her influence has significantly enhanced the award’s status, making it a revered platform to celebrate female champions across myriad sports disciplines.

At the recent ninth edition of the Fatima bint Mubarak Women’s Sports Award 2025, held at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in Abu Dhabi, H.H. Sheikh Nahyan bin Zayed awarded the winners in a distinguished ceremony. He congratulated all recipients, emphasizing that their accolades are a testament to their dedication and achievements within Arab sports. He wished them ongoing success in reaching new heights on local, regional, and international stages.

Princess Reema bint Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud, Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to the United States and International Olympic Committee member, was honored with the Sports Personality of the Year Award for 2025 for her contributions to sports diplomacy and her efforts in promoting women's sports throughout the Arab world.

The award for Best Arab Woman Athlete went to Egyptian hero Fareeda Mohamed Ahmed Khalil, the youngest Arab world champion. Emirati shooting star Salma Haitham Rashid Al Marri took home the title for Best Emirati Woman Athlete, while Emirati Paralympic champion Thikra Ahmed Al Kaabi claimed the Best Paralympic Woman Athlete award.

The Best Women’s Team title was awarded to the Sharjah Women’s Athletics Team for their relay race victory. Mariam Hassan Al Marzouqi from the UAE earned the Best Sports Mother accolade, whereas Saudi national Maha Yousif Al Khalifa was recognized as the Best Sports Media Influencer. Emirati archer Mona Faisal Al Shara, a national champion, received the Best Young Woman Athlete award, while Tunisian judo coach Nihal Reda Mohammed was honored as Best Coach.

The Fatima bint Mubarak Women’s Sports Award remains a beacon of inspiration for female athletes throughout the Arab world, fostering a spirit of excellence, sportsmanship, and empowerment for women across all levels.