Full Breakdown
Emirati Women’s Forum Highlights Contributions to National Development
8/30/2025, 9:02:24 PM
Overview of the Emirati Women’s Forum
The Emirati Women’s Forum, organized by the Dubai Women Establishment, took place at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre, marking the 10th Emirati Women’s Day. The event gathered nearly 700 leaders from various sectors, including senior officials, experts, and academics, to discuss the vital role of women in the UAE's national progress.
Key Contributions of Emirati Women
Prominent leaders at the forum emphasized that Emirati women are essential partners in national development, balancing family responsibilities with active participation in economic, social, and cultural spheres. Her Excellency Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, UAE Minister of Family, highlighted that the family has always been a national priority, a vision established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and reinforced by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak. She noted that the establishment of the Ministry of Family marked a significant milestone in advancing women’s empowerment.
Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, affirmed that Emirati women have become key contributors to the UAE’s progress, taking on leadership roles and representing the nation internationally. He praised the support from the leadership in ensuring women’s access to education and healthcare, which has enabled them to raise and educate future generations.
Empowerment Initiatives and Achievements
The forum featured discussions on various initiatives aimed at empowering women, including family-friendly workplace policies and expanded childcare services. Her Excellency Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Chairperson and Managing Director of Dubai Women Establishment, stated that the event reflects the UAE leadership's vision, which has created opportunities for women to engage in decision-making processes across all fields.
Hala Badri, Director General of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, highlighted the significant role of Emirati women in preserving cultural heritage and contributing to the UAE’s cultural legacy. She noted that women now occupy 95% of senior leadership positions at Dubai Culture and represent a significant portion of the workforce in various sectors, including arts and heritage.
Official Statements & Responses
Leaders at the forum collectively underscored that empowering women is not merely a social or political luxury but a prerequisite for building a modern state. They acknowledged the historic support from figures like Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak and Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed, whose initiatives continue to expand opportunities for women.
Criticism & Opposition
While the forum celebrated the achievements of Emirati women, there remains a discourse on the pace of change and the need for continued advocacy for gender equality in all sectors. Critics argue that despite progress, challenges persist in fully realizing women's potential in leadership roles across various industries.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Al Marri stressed that empowering women was never viewed as a social or political luxury, but as a prerequisite for building a modern, advanced state.” — Her Excellency Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Chairperson and Managing Director of Dubai Women Establishment.
- “Emirati women, she said, have played an exceptional role in shaping the country’s present and future, particularly through their contributions to the cultural and creative industries.” — Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority.
- “During the opening session that addressed the role of women and family in national development, Her Excellency Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, UAE Minister of Family, underlined that the family has always been a national priority in the UAE, serving as the foundation of progress since the country’s establishment.” — Her Excellency Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, UAE Minister of Family.
The Emirati Women’s Forum serves as a testament to the UAE's commitment to women’s empowerment and their integral role in national development.
