Inspirational Emirati Women One Must Look Up To

It is said, when you empower a woman, you empower a whole community through women. And because of the constant community support, the women in UAE are making significant contributions and inspiring many of us. Some of them have played an invaluable role in modern society.

On this Emirati Women’s Day, we present you with stories of few such women working towards creating a better UAE and a better world. In fact, these women are a proof that cultural values and progress can go hand in hand.

So, without wasting time, let’s know more about them.

H.H. Sheikha Fatima, Mother of the Nation

She is the spouse of UAE founder, late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and UAE’s “Mother of the nation. Her Highness Sheikha Fatima recognized quite early that stability and peace aren’t possible without equal opportunities for both genders. Hence, she was a lifelong supporter of women’s rights. In fact her highness chose August 28 as the date for Emirati Women’s Day to coincide with the birth of the Women’s Union on August 28, 1975.

Point to note: She was the primary Arab recipient of the UNESCO Curie Medal for these efforts.

Fahima Falaknaz, Boxer

Want to know about another pioneer during a super-masculine world? She is none other than Fahima Falaknaz: the first Emirati female boxer. Citing Bruce Lee as her idol, she became the 1st Emirati female boxer to represent the UAE in Asian Boxing Confederation Championship in 2019. Today, she’s determined to train more women to enter the ring.

Nayla Al Khaja, Filmmaker, cultural consultant

Nayla Al Khaja is the first woman Emirati producer and director, and the first Emirati to get work offered in Hollywood. She is the concept creator for The Alexandria Killings. It is a series about the real-life story of Raya and Sakina (Egyptian manslayer sisters). Currently, she’s finding a balance between motherhood and work. Her feature film Three is on the floors and will start shooting soon.

Sheikha Mozah bint Marwan Al Maktoum, Aviator

Captain Mozah bint Marwan Al Maktoum was the first to break into the UAE aviation industry. She started her career as a commercial first officer Pilot at Emirates Airlines in 2017. She then became the first woman lieutenant Pilot at Dubai Police. As for her ultimate focus, it is none other than gender equality in aviation. She also founded the Ladies in Aviation Association (SHEHANA). It aims to increase the female number in the aviation industry (as pilots or crew members) and other sectors.

Afra Atiq, Poetess

Afra Atiq is an award-winning Emirati poetess and spoken word artist. She writes and performs poems in various tongues, which reflects her passion for languages. She is featured in various events, including TED talks. Afra aims to uplift other women of her community through mentorships with Untitled Chapters: a program she founded for Emirati female writers.

Amani Al Hosani, Nuclear Scientist

Amani Al Hosani is UAE’s first female nuclear scientist. She is now a deputy head of simulators at the ENEC ( Emirates nuclear energy Corporation).

Due to her efforts, ENEC has more than 21% female staff. This is above the worldwide average for ladies within the nuclear field.

This Emirati Women’s Day, let’s celebrate the women around UAE who personify the ideals and strength of our great nation. This country would not have reached these heights without the contribution of the women.