SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
Thriving across diverse sectors, Emirati women reflect the UAE’s vision of empowerment—driving innovation and inspiring the next generation. On Emirati Women’s Day, they shared with Aletihad their core missions and the legacy they aim to build.
Hiba Obaid Alshehhi, Acting Undersecretary for Biodiversity and Marine Life Sector at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, emphasised the significant role of women in protecting the nation's natural heritage and advancing environmental sustainability.
“The remarkable achievements of Emirati women today stem directly from the exceptional vision and unwavering dedication of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Mother of the Nation, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union (GWU), President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation (FDF).”
“To every ambitious Emirati woman passionate about our environment: your dedication is truly inspiring. Continue to innovate and lead. You are the foundation for a more prosperous and sustainable future,” she added.
From the engineering sector, Eng. Balqees Mubarak, Project Engineer at Al-Futtaim Contracting, described how Emiratisation opened opportunities for women in technical fields.
“The support and guidance I received… had a significant impact on building my self-confidence and professional development,” she said.
For her, empowerment is rooted in values. “I believe that true progress does not come at the expense of our culture or identity. On the contrary, we derive our strength from our roots, and this is what makes us different and distinctive.”
In communications, Amina Jalabi of Weber Shandwick reflected on her role in employee engagement.
“Working in employee engagement as an Emirati woman has been incredibly fulfilling. My role blends creativity, strategy, culture, and connection. Being an Emirati woman gives me a unique perspective that helps me bring balance and create an inclusive experience for everyone,” she said.
For Dr. Eman Al Hashmi, Founder and President of the Autoimmune Association (AIA) — and the UAE’s first female music composer, arranger, and orchestral author — women’s leadership is about building new paths.
“Emirati women are leaving a remarkable imprint on every field. In healthcare advocacy, we are building a future of awareness, compassion, and resilience. In music, we are breaking barriers and presenting the UAE on the world stage with creativity rooted in heritage yet open to global harmony,” she said.
In Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector, Taghrid AlSaeed, Executive Director of Marketing, Communications and Events at Miral, reflected on pride and responsibility.
“Emirati Women’s Day is a proud moment to reflect on how far our nation has come… and a reminder of the responsibility we each carry to continue that journey. Personally, it symbolises both celebration and commitment,” she said.
Sharing an advice for Emirati women, AlSaeed said: “Embrace the opportunities ahead of you with courage, ambition, and confidence. Do not hesitate to take on challenges—they are the stepping stones to growth and leadership.”
In the field sustainability and agriculture, Eman Almarri, Founder of Plant with Amy, spoke of combining tradition with innovation.
“Emirati women are playing a powerful role in reshaping the future of agriculture and sustainability. We combine deep cultural roots with modern innovation, proving that our traditions and future vision can grow hand in hand,” she said.
Meanwhile, Hassan Safi, Group CEO of Al Ain Farms Group, reaffirmed women’s pivotal role in food security.
“At Al Ain Farms Group, we recognise that Emirati women are pivotal to shaping the future of the UAE’s food industry. Their unparalleled talent, innovation, and leadership are at the forefront of our mission to revolutionize local agriculture, sustainability, and scientific advancement.”
He pointed to programmes like ATHAR as future drivers that prepare “Emirati students for impactful roles within our organisation”. “We remain steadfast in empowering Emirati women as catalysts for progress across all sectors,” she said.
For Hessa Al Hammadi, Digital Marketing Officer at Louvre Abu Dhabi, representing Emirati women at a global museum meant “bringing our voices, perspectives, and stories into an international dialogue on culture”.
“It is about showing the world the important role Emirati women play in shaping narratives of heritage and art,” she said.
“My pledge is to ensure that Emirati women are visible in the cultural narrative we share. Through my work, I will continue to highlight stories that reflect our heritage, achievements, and perspectives on a global stage,” she added.
Nasreen Humaid, Head of HR at Sanad, reflected on the evolving role of the nation’s women.
“At Sanad, we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where Emirati women can thrive at every level, from the hangar floor to leadership positions. Nearly half of our UAE national workforce today are women, which is a remarkable achievement in the aerospace and MRO sector,” she said.
Humaid encouraged Emirati women to be confident in their capabilities and set ambitious goals. “The aviation and aerospace industry is constantly evolving, and it needs fresh ideas, passion, and resilience,” she said.
Her colleague, senior engineer Fatima Alzaabi, described a career in aviation as a “calling”. “It requires hard work, resilience, and continuous learning, but it is also deeply rewarding.”
For assistant engineer Shouq Alseiari, the sector is about opportunity: “Sanad empowers Emirati women by giving us the chance to work hands-on in technical operations and to prove our capabilities in complex environments. I believe the future will see more Emirati women not only working on engines but also leading operational teams and contributing to global aviation excellence.”
Ghazlan Albreiki from Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island emphasised the role of Emirati women in the hospitality sector.
“At Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, we do not just talk about diversity and inclusion – we live it. Emirati women are being supported to step into impactful roles through training, mentoring, and practical experience. We’re helping set new standards for safety and sustainability in hospitality.”
For aspirants in the hospitality sector, she noted that curiosity and openness to learning are vital, and that success in hospitality comes from empathy, adaptability, and leadership – qualities rooted in Emirati culture.
“Believe in your abilities, take ownership of your growth, and never underestimate teamwork.”