The United Arab Emirates today marks the 10th annual Emirati Women’s Day, celebrating the contributions of women to the nation’s development and commemorating the 50th anniversary of the General Women’s Union (GWU), founded by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak in 1975.
The day, first celebrated in 2015, was established by Sheikha Fatima, known as the ‘Mother of the Nation’, to honor the achievements and aspirations of Emirati women across all fields. What began as a modest celebration recognizing female military personnel has since evolved into a nationwide event highlighting women as equal partners in building the UAE’s future.
This year’s theme, ‘Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years’, reflects the enduring legacy of the GWU while emphasizing unity, community partnership, and women’s central role in shaping the country’s progress. The theme also coincides with the UAE’s designation of 2025 as the ‘Year of Community’.
Over the past five decades, Emirati women have made remarkable progress in politics, science, business, and education. They now occupy 50 per cent of the Federal National Council’s seats, and hold 26 per cent of ministerial positions. In science and technology, women account for nearly half of STEM graduates and play significant roles in the nation’s space sector. The UAE ranks first in the Arab world and seventh globally in the 2024 Gender Inequality Index by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). In 2025, women represents 18 percent of all UAE-based entrepreneurs, driving innovation across FinTech, health, wellness, and industrial services—underscoring the country’s commitment to gender balance. These achievements reflect the vision of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak and the enduring legacy of Emirati Women’s Day in promoting empowerment and equal opportunity.
Notable achievements include Sarah Al Amiri’s leadership in the 2021 Mars Mission and her current role as Minister of State for Public Education and Advanced Technology; Nora Al Matrooshi’s graduation in 2024 as the first Emirati and Arab female astronaut from NASA training. In July, Samira Al Ali became the first woman in the 69-year history of Dubai Police to attain the rank of brigadier. Nationwide celebrations this year include exhibitions, panel discussions, and cultural activities showcasing women’s contributions.
