ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
Three generations of Emirati women working across the healthcare sector came together on an Etihad Rail journey from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah ahead of Emirati Women’s Day.
The Emirati Women’s Day Leadership Journey, organised by Burjeel Holdings in collaboration with Etihad Rail, brought together 30 Emirati women, including senior physicians, doctors, nurses, clinicians, healthcare leaders, and professionals working in administrative and support functions.
Dr Farida Al Ali, Assistant Undersecretary for National Talent Empowerment at the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, joined the journey and shared insights on resilience, career development, national contribution, and the growing role of Emirati women in the UAE workforce and healthcare sector.
The programme included leadership conversations, intergenerational discussions, networking, and reflections on career development and the future role of Emirati women in healthcare and society.
“Healthcare is built by people with very different skills, but with one shared purpose,” said Dr Tahani Al Qadiri, Associate Vice President - Burjeel Training Academy.
She said the journey brought together Emirati doctors, nurses, clinicians, leaders and administrative professionals from different generations, reflecting how opportunities for Emirati women have expanded over time.
“Their stories show how far opportunities for Emirati women have progressed and, more importantly, how every generation is helping create the next set of opportunities,” Al Qadiri said.
Dr Aysha Almahri, CEO - Al Ain Region, Burjeel Holdings, said the presence of Emirati women across healthcare specialties had changed significantly.
“When we began our careers, Emirati women were rarely seen in many healthcare specialties. Today, it is inspiring to see the next generation stepping forward with confidence and ambition,” she said.
Sara Alkatheeri, Nutritionist at Burjeel Medical City, said younger professionals had benefited from the achievements of earlier generations.
“Today, we have the confidence to dream bigger because the women before us broke barriers and proved what was possible,” she said, adding that their legacy continued to motivate younger Emirati women working in healthcare.
The discussions also highlighted the contribution of Emirati women working in administration, operations, patient services and other support roles across the healthcare sector.
The journey also provided opportunities for mentoring and networking among women at different stages of their careers.