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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.
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