Celebrating Emirati Women: Pioneers of Change in the UAE
In a nation that prides itself on progress and inclusivity, Emirati women are at the forefront of transformative changes across various sectors, including finance, technology, healthcare, and maritime industries. As the United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to champion gender equality and provide robust opportunities, these remarkable women are not only breaking barriers but also setting new standards of excellence. On the occasion of Emirati Women’s Day, we delve into the inspiring journeys of strong female leaders who are shaping the future of their industries and empowering the next generation to follow in their footsteps.
Leading the Charge in Finance and Technology
Dr. Saeeda Jaffar, SVP and Group Country Manager, GCC, Visa
Emirati women are making significant strides in finance and technology, fields that have traditionally been male-dominated. Leaders like Dr. Saeeda Jaffar exemplify this shift, showcasing the increasing opportunities available to women in these sectors. The financial services industry has been particularly proactive in promoting gender inclusivity, with figures like Shamsa Al-Falasi, CEO of Citibank UAE Onshore, and Hana Al Rostamani, Group CEO at First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), setting new leadership benchmarks.
The UAE’s commitment to gender inclusivity is evident through mandated female representation on corporate boards, creating an environment where talent thrives irrespective of gender. Dr. Jaffar encourages young Emirati women to harness their potential and commit wholeheartedly to their goals. She emphasizes the importance of skill development and mentorship programs, such as Visa’s She’s Next initiative, which provide essential support and knowledge for aspiring leaders. As Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the “Mother of the Nation,” wisely stated, “Emirati women have proven day after day that nothing is impossible with hard work, diligence, creativity, and hope for a prosperous future.”
Navigating the Maritime Sector
Abeer AlShaali, Deputy MD, Gulf Craft
In the maritime industry, Emirati women are carving out their space, driven by determination and a desire to succeed in a traditionally male-dominated field. Abeer AlShaali of Gulf Craft highlights the importance of fostering an inclusive environment where women can thrive. As more female engineers and professionals join the maritime sector, Emirati families are increasingly recognizing the opportunities available and supporting their daughters’ ambitions.
AlShaali advises young Emirati women to earn their place at the table through dedication and perseverance. She encourages them to demonstrate their capabilities and embrace change, even in challenging environments. The maritime sector is evolving, and with it, the roles of women within it.
Transforming Leisure and Entertainment
Mariam Al Musharrekh, ED – Human Resources at Miral
Emirati women are rapidly emerging as key figures in the leisure, entertainment, and travel sectors. At Miral, Mariam Al Musharrekh observes the daily impact of these women, who are spearheading innovative guest experiences and managing complex operations. Their creativity and passion are transforming the landscape in Abu Dhabi and across the UAE.
Musharrekh offers aspiring Emirati women several guiding principles: embrace your heritage to bring authenticity to your work, never stop learning, collaborate with others for mutual support, and be bold in pursuing opportunities that challenge and excite you. These principles are essential for navigating the evolving landscape of the leisure and entertainment industries.
Empowering the Professional Services Sector
Noor Abbasi, Manager, Consulting, PwC Middle East
The professional services industry is witnessing a surge of Emirati women pursuing careers in auditing, consulting, and deals. Noor Abbasi emphasizes the importance of seeking out female role models and establishing relationships with mentors who can provide valuable insights and encouragement. Many women in this sector have transitioned into leadership positions within top government entities, showcasing their expertise and ability to excel as leaders and entrepreneurs.
Leading Change in Healthcare
Abir Araki, Manager – Emiratisation and Nationalisation, Cigna Healthcare MEA
Emirati Women’s Day serves as a vibrant celebration of the remarkable accomplishments of Emirati women, made possible by the UAE’s visionary leadership. At Cigna Healthcare, Abir Araki highlights how Emirati women are not just leaders but changemakers, powering transformative solutions in the healthcare industry. The organization is proud to support these talented women as they shape a brighter future for healthcare in the UAE.
Driving Innovation in STEM
Maitha Shuaib, ED, Corporate Communications, Ducab Group
Emirati women are not just role models; they are the driving force behind the UAE’s extraordinary journey. Maitha Shuaib notes that women constitute an impressive 56% of public university graduates in STEM fields, showcasing their immense impact. At Ducab, 80% of the female management team is leading change, exemplifying the boundless potential of Emirati women in governance and innovation.
Shaping the Future of Banking and Finance
Noura Alblooshi, Director, Programme Administration and Delivery Division, Emirates Institute for Banking and Financial Studies (EIBFS)
Emirati women play a vital role in the UAE’s development, particularly in the financial and banking sectors. Noura Alblooshi emphasizes the UAE’s commitment to investing in human resources and empowering women, making it a global leader in female empowerment. At EIBFS, women accounted for 32% of participants in training courses last year, reflecting a growing trend of female participation in the country’s economic progress.
Celebrating Gender Equality in Leadership
Alya Al Zarouni, COO, DIFC Authority
The UAE is recognized as a leading country in gender equality, as highlighted by the World Economic Forum’s 2024 Global Gender Gap Report. Alya Al Zarouni expresses pride in being part of a nation that celebrates women’s achievements and provides limitless opportunities for reaching senior leadership positions. The DIFC Authority continues to create a supportive work environment that empowers women to contribute to the UAE’s growth.
Mentorship: A Pathway to Success
Waood Ibrahim Al Mutawa, HR Director, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Al Maryah Retail Company
In celebration of Emirati Women’s Day, Waood Ibrahim Al Mutawa emphasizes the importance of mentorship in empowering Emirati women. The UAE’s National Policy for the Empowerment of Emirati Women 2023 – 2031 represents a steadfast commitment to providing support and resources for women to build impactful careers. By fostering strong mentor-mentee relationships, the next generation of Emirati women can be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to drive the nation forward.
Breaking Ground in Industrial Sectors
Mariam Al Meraikhi, Key Account Manager, Schneider Electric
Mariam Al Meraikhi shares her journey as a young Emirati woman in the industrial sector, highlighting the challenges she faced and the support she received from her team. She finds inspiration in the Emirati women breaking new ground in digital automation, technology, and engineering. Their success underscores the strength of diversity and the limitless potential of women. Al Meraikhi encourages young women to view challenges as opportunities for growth and to pursue their passions relentlessly.
Conclusion
The stories of these remarkable Emirati women illustrate the profound impact they are making across various sectors in the UAE. Their dedication, resilience, and commitment to excellence not only inspire the next generation of female leaders but also contribute significantly to the nation’s progress. As the UAE continues to champion gender equality and inclusivity, the future looks bright for Emirati women, who are poised to lead the way in shaping a prosperous and innovative society.