Each year on August 28, the UAE marks Emirati Women’s Day—a vibrant tribute to the nation’s remarkable women and their central role in shaping the country’s future. Launched in 2015 under the vision of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, known as the Mother of the Nation, this day commemorates the founding of the UAE’s General Women’s Union and celebrates women’s empowerment across sectors
Emirati Women’s Day isn’t just a date on the calendar—it’s a testament to progress. The UAE now ranks 7th globally and 1st regionally in the UNDP’s Gender Inequality Index. Women are rapidly closing the gaps in education, politics, and business through reforms like equal pay, representation mandates in boards, and higher education access.
Power Players: Women Leading the UAE into Tomorrow
Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi
With a Cambridge BA and an MSc from UCL, Sheikha Bodour is the powerhouse behind innovation, culture, and education in Sharjah. As the President of the American University of Sharjah, she also oversees the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP), the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), the Sharjah Book Authority, and the Kalimat Group & Foundation
Her leadership at Sheraa has helped launch 150+ startups, raising $128 million, and creating 1,400 jobs, all while weaving education, culture, and R&D into the entrepreneurial fabric of the nation. She sees Sharjah as a global entrepreneurial magnet and fuels a culture of creativity built to last
Alya Alsuwaidi
Driving Sharjah’s public voice, Alya Alsuwaidi, as Director at Sharjah Government Media Bureau, is the architect behind powerful branding, event execution, and integrated campaigns that elevate the Emirate’s narrative—though specific citations for her role remain sought.
Sara Al Nuaimi
At the helm of Sheraa as its CEO, Sara Al Nuaimi is crafting Sharjah’s reputation as an innovation powerhouse. Through visionary programs and strategic impact, she strengthens the ecosystem motivating founders and investors alike.
Najla Al-Midfa
As Vice Chairperson of Sheraa, Najla Al-Midfa has significantly shaped the entrepreneurial ecosystem’s trajectory—supporting 150+ startups, driving $161 million in funding, and generating hundreds of jobs. She brought global attention through the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF), drawing 13,000 attendees and countless thought leaders. Her leadership has earned her accolades like the Arabian Business Arab Woman Award for Entrepreneurship
Beyond the Spotlight: Empowerment by Design
Emirati Women’s Day evolves annually under symbolic themes—2024’s “We Share for Tomorrow” and 2023’s “We Collaborate for Tomorrow”—reflecting the UAE’s focus on solidarity and sustainability.
The recognition goes beyond celebration:
The Ministry of Economy & Tourism led forums featuring AI innovators and women entrepreneurs in 2024
Ministry of Education
The “Emirati Women and Future-Making” conference, patronized by Sheikha Fatima and held by the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence, spotlighted women’s technological and societal achievements, including contributions from Najla Al-Midfa
Why It Matters
In honoring these exceptional women—from academia, media, and entrepreneurship to national policy—the UAE sends a bold message: empowerment is action. These leaders are not just symbols—they’re architects of growth, redefining what it means to lead with wisdom, creativity, and heart.
So today, as we honor Emirati Women’s Day, let’s celebrate those who build futures, break molds, and embody the UAE’s vision of progress.
