On August 28, the UAE proudly celebrates Emirati Women’s Day as a tribute to the resilience, achievements, and unique cultural, social, and economic journeys of Emirati women. Established in 2015 by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the mother of the nation, this occasion commemorates the founding of the General Women’s Union (GWU) in 1975.
Over the years, Emirati women have become pioneers across fields, from Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak’s lifelong efforts to empower women, to Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed Al Maktoum’s leadership in arts and culture, Amna Al Qubaisi’s breaking barriers in motorsports, and Noura Al Matrooshi’s historic journey as the first Emirati woman astronaut. Their achievements continue to inspire progress and shape the nation’s future.
Emirati Women’s Day, in essence, serves as a powerful reminder of the UAE’s ongoing commitment to empowering and supporting Emirati women across all sectors.
A Celebration of Togetherness and Progression
This year’s theme for the Emirati Women’s Day is ‘Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years,’ marking a major milestone: the 50th anniversary of the GWU. It emphasises the values of unity, collaboration, and shared responsibility while honouring women’s efforts, devotion, dreams, and accomplishments over the past 50 years, as well as their ambitions for the future.
The theme is also aligned with the Year of Community, declared by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President, reinforcing the UAE’s vision of strengthening national cohesion and reaffirming the essential role of Emirati women as integral partners in the nation’s development and progress.
Ultimately, it serves as a powerful reminder that the greatest national achievements are achieved through unity and collective effort.
Voices of Inspiration from Salama
In the spirit of this year’s theme, Emirati women at Salama shared their reflections on what Emirati Women’s Day means to them:
Bashayr Alyafei, Senior Marketing Officer at Salama, shared with us her thoughts on collective progress and optimism on this day, “This Emirati Women’s Day is especially meaningful as we celebrate its 50th year. It reminds us of the remarkable progress made, the changes still unfolding, and the bright path of growth and positivity that lies ahead.”
Furthermore, Salma Alkashadi, Senior Officer Customer Service, shared with us her views on the impact brought in by Emirati women, “On Emirati Women’s Day, we honour the remarkable women of the UAE whose strength, vision, and determination continue to shape the nation’s future. Emirati women are not only the pride of their families, but also the driving force of progress, innovation, and leadership. Their journey is a symbol of resilience and inspiration for generations to come.” Her words reinforce the role of Emirati women as nation builders.
Manal Alhosani, Officer Non-Motor Operations adds, “Emirati women strength today, inspiration tomorrow. Proud to be an Emirati woman celebrating strength, ambition, and endless dreams on Emirati Women’s Day.”
Hanan Allanjawi, Executive Officer, Medical Underwriting, shared with us, “Behind every achievement in the UAE, there is the mark of Emirati woman.”
Lastly, Maitha AlShamsi, Officer, Motor Claims, conveyed her heartfelt tribute to the individual spirit of Emirati women by saying, “Thank you to every Emirati woman who carried ambition in her heart, determination in her steps, and turned every challenge into a story of success.”
As we celebrate 50 years of achievement and growth, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting women, advancing equality and shaping brighter tomorrows, together.
