MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)

The UAE's commitment to empowering Emirati women to lead and innovate is evidenced in its gender equality initiatives and progressive policies.

On the occasion of Emirati Women's Day, annually celebrated on August 28, Aletihad spoke to Emirati women leaders in various sectors, who affirmed the UAE's commitment to celebrating women's achievements and investing in their development. 

Fatma Ashkanani, Chief Corporate Officer at Khazna Data Centers, highlighted the role of Emirati women in leading technological advancements. 

Fatma Ashkanani



"The UAE's commitment to gender equality has empowered Emirati women to take on leadership roles and bring diverse perspectives to the technology sector. We are not just participants but innovators, driving the agenda for technological advancements on a global scale," she said. 

"From AI and cybersecurity to data management, Emirati women are making significant strides in these key areas of interest and are taking the baton in policy making, project management, and mentorship of the next generation of tech leaders." 

Ashkanani further noted that public-private partnerships are central to advancing this direction to women's empowerment.

"Khazna is playing its part to make an impactful contribution. By fostering a culture of inclusion and empowerment, Khazna is enabling Emirati women to take on leadership roles that directly influence the direction of the company and, by extension, the nation's digital strategy," she said. 

Khazna has specific programmes in place to mentor and develop female talent, ensuring that Emirati women have the support they need to succeed in the tech industry. This ultimately contributes to advancing the broader movement for gender equality in the UAE's tech sector, Ashkanani added. 

"My message to the Emirati women is to continue being the powerhouse of talent and with determination set new standards of excellence and inspiration by breaking every glass ceiling in the technology sector."

Farah Al Yasi, Director of Government Relations & Events at Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), reflected on the supportive environment for women in the UAE. 

"As an Emirati woman who has been part of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) for over 10 years, I have always felt inspired and supported by our nation's leadership. The UAE's dedication to empowering women and prioritising our development shines through its progressive policies and initiatives," she said. 

The "We the UAE 2031" vision, which includes a dedicated pillar for harnessing Emirati human potential, alongside the annual celebration of Emirati Women's Day, are testaments to the significant strides Emirati women have made, according to Al Yasi.

She stressed that RAKTDA actively supports this national mission by providing opportunities and cultivating an environment where Emirati women can thrive. 

"I am immensely grateful to contribute to a nation that invests in and nurtures its talent, paving the way for confident and successful Emirati females. On this special day, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all my Emirati sisters and look forward to our ongoing role in advancing the stature of all our Emirates on the global stage."

Muneera Al Taher – Vice President, Human Resources Operations and Emiratisation, Jumeirah highlighted the group's role in cultivating the UAE's female talent and preparing them as leaders in luxury hospitality.

  • Muneera Al Taher

 


"We are very proud of our female Emirati colleagues, who represent 56% of our Emirati workforce, supporting our country's vision to empower and unlock the full potential of female nationals across various sectors through different developmental strategies," Al Taher said. 

Jumeirah aspires to nurture a generation of confident and capable Emirati women who will thrive and contribute meaningfully to both the sector and nation's advancement, through initiatives that support their education, wellbeing, and leadership ambitions, she added. 

On the occasion of Emirati Women's Day, Al Taher said: "Let us inspire and nurture all Emirati women of tomorrow by investing in their future and giving them exciting growth and development opportunities."

"Emirati women are the architects of our nation's future. Their potential is boundless, and their spirit is indomitable," she added.