The eighth annual Emirati Women’s Day is fast approaching.
First launched by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak in 2015, the day is celebrated each year on August 28th. It’s a poignant date which was chosen by Her Highness as it coincides with the day the UAE’s General Women’s Union (GWU) was established in 1975.
This year the theme, announced by Sheikha Fatima, will be “We Collaborate For Tomorrow”, aligning with UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s vision for 2023 as the Year of Sustainability”.
In a statement in April, Sheikha Fatima said, “Every year, we proudly announce an inspiring theme for Emirati Women’s Day, and this national occasion is a priority for us. This day highlights a set of objectives which aligns with the country’s global leadership in recognising and empowering women.”
In light of the theme, we thought it was only fitting to highlight some of the incredible women of the region who are embodying the theme perfectly. Career-driven, inspiring, empowering and looking to the future, these individuals are visionaries of the UAE.
Below, we outline the achievements and careers of 10 incredible women, who you can also follow on LinkedIn.
1. Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, President of AUS
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Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi has garnered a remarkable array of accolades throughout her distinguished career. As a visionary leader, she has championed the advancement of literature and cultural exchange, fostering an environment that promotes creativity and intellectual growth.
Sheikha Bodour held key prestigious roles such as President of the International Publishers Association (IPA) and the Founder and CEO of Kalimat Group, a publishing house dedicated to nurturing young literary talents and producing high-quality Arabic books.
Through her multifaceted endeavors, Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi continued the legacy of her father and became an important patron and preserver of Arabic literature and culture and an inspirational figure shaping the future of global literary discourse.
2. Najla Al Midfa, CEO of Sheraa
Najla Al Midfa stands as a key driver of inspiration of entrepreneurship and innovation in the UAE, celebrated for her impressive accolades and unwavering commitment to fostering a thriving business ecosystem.
With a profound dedication to supporting entrepreneurs, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of startups in the region. Serving as the CEO of Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), Najla has orchestrated transformative programs, mentorship initiatives, and funding opportunities that have propelled numerous aspiring business minds towards success.
Her visionary leadership has not only empowered local talents but has also attracted international attention, solidifying the UAE’s position as a hub for innovation.
3. Huda Al Shamsi – VP of Marketing, Brand and Communications at Abu Dhabi Airports
Huda Al Shamsi has left a mark on the aviation industry through her distinguished career as the Vice President of Marketing, Brand, and Communications at Abu Dhabi Airports.
She’s also orchestrated transformative strategies that have elevated the airport’s image and global prominence. Her visionary leadership and creativity have been pivotal in shaping the airport’s brand identity, propelling it to the forefront of the industry.
Huda’s career achievements stand as a testament to her exceptional leadership and her enduring impact on the aviation landscape.
4. Fatima Al Harthi – Trailblazer Emirati Equestrian
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Fatima Al Harthi has emerged as a prominent figure in the world of equestrian sports, amassing a series of impressive accolades that showcase her exceptional talent and dedication. As an Emirati equestrian, her achievements have garnered both national and international recognition.
Through her relentless determination and pursuit of excellence, Fatima has secured victories in various competitions, showcasing her mastery of riding and her exceptional bond with her equine partners. Her achievements not only serve as a testament to her prowess in the equestrian arena but also inspire aspiring riders to strive for greatness.
5. Dalya Al Muthanna, President and CEO, GE Gulf
Dalya Al Muthanna is a distinguished leader in the field of business and technology, boasting a range of notable accolades and significant contributions. Through her visionary approach, she has played a pivotal role in driving innovation and growth within GE Gulf and the broader region.
Dalya’s exemplary leadership and dedication garnered her impressive recognition as a trailblazer in a male-dominated industry.
6. Nawal Al-Hosany, UAE’s permanent representative to IRENA
Nawal Al-Hosany has emerged as a distinguished figure in the field of renewable energy and sustainable development, exemplified by her role as the UAE’s permanent representative to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
Her unwavering commitment to sustainability allowed her to play a pivotal role in shaping policies and initiatives that promote clean energy solutions on a global scale. Her visionary leadership has not only positioned the UAE as a frontrunner in renewable energy but has also inspired collaborative action among nations to address climate change challenges.
7. Dr. Suaad Al Shamsi – The first UAE female aircraft engineer
Dr. Suaad Al Shamsi has contributed significantly to the aviation industry, breaking new ground for women in traditionally male-dominated fields. As the first Emirati woman to study aeronautical engineering in the UK and the first female aircraft engineer in the UAE, her pioneering work has set a precedent for gender inclusivity in the region and diversity in the aviation sector.
8. Dr. Saeeda Jaffar – Group Country Manager – GCC, Visa
As the Group Country Manager for the GCC region at Visa, Dr. Saeeda Jaffar has had a series of remarkable achievements that highlight her leadership and influence in the financial technology sector in the UAE.
Her visionary approach has been instrumental in expanding digital payment solutions, fostering financial inclusion, and transforming the way transactions are conducted in the region.
9. Dr. Ebtesam Almazrouei – Acting Chief AI Researcher, Executive Director, Co-Founder – Artificial Intelligence Cross-Center at Technology Innovation Institute
Dr. Ebtesam Almazrouei has established herself as a pioneering force in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) and technological innovation. As the Acting Chief AI Researcher, Executive Director, and Co-Founder of the Artificial Intelligence Cross-Center at the Technology Innovation Institute, her accolades are a testament to her exceptional contributions. Her strategic insights and commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology have positioned her at the forefront of AI innovation in the region.
10. Dr. Fatma Bazargan – Director, International Business Development – Middle East Region at Collins Aerospace
Dr. Fatma Bazargan has established a remarkable legacy as the Director of International Business Development for the Middle East Region at Collins Aerospace, marked by a series of impressive accolades that underscore her exceptional contributions.
Being a leader at one of the world’s largest suppliers of aerospace and defense products, her strategic vision has been instrumental in expanding Collins Aerospace’s global footprint and fostering strategic partnerships in the Middle East.
Dr. Fatma’s achievements are a testament to her profound impact on the aerospace industry and her role as a dynamic leader driving transformative change in the region.
