With Emirati Women’s Day fast approaching, it’s only right to reflect on the powerful Emirati women driving change in the UAE.

Over the years, Emirati women have reached for unapologetic growth, and today, these ten are at the forefront of UAE’s dynamic shifts.

From sports and fashion to space exploration, these women are redefining norms, reshaping the rules, and leaving a trailblazing legacy for future generations.

Below, GRAZIA highlights the Emirati women leading the way.

Khadija Al Bastaki

Dubai may be a fashion hub, but the woman spearheading its transformation into one of the world’s top fashion capitals is Khadija Al Bastaki. As Senior Vice President of Dubai Design District and Co-founder of Dubai Fashion Week, Khadija’s visionary leadership has turned Dubai Fashion Week into a must-attend event, solidifying Dubai’s place on the global fashion calendar.

Captain Aisha Al Mansoori

Leading the way in the skies, Captain Aisha Al Mansoori has soared to new heights in the field of aviation. As the first Emirati female captain at Etihad Airways, Aisha has shattered gender barriers, from her early days flying the Airbus A320 to commanding the superjumbo Airbus A380. Her achievements are a powerful reminder that in the UAE, the sky is truly the limit.

Nayla Al Khaja

In the realm of media and culture, Nayla Al Khaja stands as a beacon of creative brilliance. As the UAE’s first-ever female film director, Nayla has carved out a name for herself in the film industry, working on international campaigns and collaborating with leading brands. With numerous accolades to her name, she continues to push the boundaries of storytelling, setting new standards for creativity in the UAE.

Dr Houriya Kazim

Pioneering in the field of medicine, Dr Houriya Kazim has become a beacon of hope for countless women. As the UAE’s first female surgeon and a leading voice in breast cancer awareness, Dr Houriya founded the Well Woman Clinic, the country’s first dedicated breast cancer clinic, as well as Brest Friends, Dubai’s first breast cancer support group. Her unwavering commitment to early detection and education has undoubtedly saved lives.

Nora Al Matrooshi

Following the groundbreaking mission of Emirati astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi, Nora Al Matrooshi has her sights set on the stars. As the first female UAE national to graduate from the NASA Astronaut Programme, Nora is poised to make history as the first Emirati woman selected for a space mission. Her journey to space is not just personal but emblematic of the UAE’s ambitions in the final frontier.

Safia Al Sayegh

The first-ever female national to represent the UAE in the Paris Olympics, Safia Al Sayegh, made sure numerous achievements can make her country proud. From joining the Dubai Police Pro Cycling Team to tapping into the UAE Team ADQ, the first women’s World Tour professional team in the country, all the way to the Olympics. The cyclist’s relentless pursuit of excellence on the world stage has become a source of pride for the nation.

HE Dr Raja Easa Al Gurg

A pillar of the business community, HE Dr Raja Easa Al Gurg is a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs across Dubai. As the founder of the Dubai Businesswomen Council, she has dedicated her career to fostering innovation and supporting the personal and professional development of women entrepreneurs in the UAE. Recognised as one of the most powerful women in business, Dr Raja’s influence extends far beyond the boardroom.

Latifa Bin Haider

Latifa Bin Haider’s mission is to empower Emirati women through financial literacy and mental health advocacy. As a social entrepreneur, she has made it her goal to educate women in the areas of investing and real estate, ensuring they have the tools to succeed. Co-founding Mental Health AE, Latifa is also breaking down stigmas around mental health, providing much-needed resources and support to the community.

Amna Al Qubaisi

Those familiar with Formula 1 will know of the first female Emirati to take the reins in this male-dominated sport. Driven by a passion for speed and precision, Amna has not only shattered stereotypes but has also made significant strides, paving the way for future generations of Emirati women in motorsports. Her journey from karting tracks to the Formula 1 circuit is a testament to her determination and serves as a powerful inspiration for young women across the UAE who dare to dream beyond traditional boundaries.

Dubai Abulhoul

Dubai Abulhoul is redefining the literary landscape of the UAE with her groundbreaking work as an author and cultural ambassador. As one of the youngest novelists in the country, she has used her platform to tell stories that resonate with the Emirati youth, blending tradition with modernity in a way that has captivated readers both locally and internationally. Through her writing and her role as a public speaker, Dubai continues to challenge stereotypes, encouraging a new generation of Emirati women to take pride in their heritage while also embracing the future.