Photo: @myathel Instagram

Emirati women have long pioneered and strived for success in the United Arab Emirates. And needless to say over the last five decades, their impact across sectors has been nothing short of profound.

From women excelling in entrepreneurship to achieving breakthroughs in the field of science covering a myriad of industries, Emirati women have continually been an integral part of the UAE’s pivotal growth.

Standing as the UAE’s paramount gender equality initiative, Emirati Women’s Day acts as the platform to celebrate and recognise the achievements of UAE’s women.

As a day meant to empower and promote the enhancing role of women in the country, GRAZIA shares everything you need to know about Emirati Women’s Day.

What is Emirati Women’s Day?

Celebrated on August 28 annually, Emirati Women’s Day is the yearly celebration spearheaded by the Mother of the Nation, Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak.

Her Highness has been a longtime supporter and advocate of women’s rights in the region. She is also one of the main driving forces behind the region’s societal progression as seen through the years of her efforts.

To further amplify the voices of Emirati women, Sheikha Fatima coined the day to celebrate the progress of the country’s steps towards balancing gender equality, whilst also marking the impacts the women of UAE are making to boost the country.

Launched in 2015, Sheikha Fatima specifically chose August 28 at the date for Emirati Women’s Day as it coincides with the day the UAE’s General Women’s Union (GWU) was established in 1975.

The theme for 2024

Although the theme and details of the ninth edition have yet to be revealed for 2024, last year Sheikha Fatima ensured it aligned with the UAE’s yearly theme.

Following the Year of Sustainability, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, extended the theme of 2023 to 2024, which may suggest a similar focus this year.

Highlights of Emirati Women’s Day 2023

HH Sheikha Dr. Dalal Al Maktoum
Courtesy of GRAZIA Middle East.

To commemorate the special occasion, last year for Emirati Women’s Day 2023, HH Sheikha Dr. Dalal Al Maktoum sat down with GRAZIA, appearing on video for the very first time.

Sharing her passion for inspiring others, Sheikha Dr. Dalal has built up an online community, which she describes as “so supportive”, with a mutual love of style, fashion, lifestyle and more.

Most of all, she declared her adoration for the UAE society that constantly “empowers and encourages women to be who they are.”

From embracing her cultural roots to showcasing her dedication as an Emirati doctor, she shared with GRAZIA what it means to be an Emirati woman.