Amid the skyscrapers and desert dunes of the UAE, a celebration of resilience and achievement is observed today as the nation comes together to mark its eighth Emirati Women’s Day.
Celebrated every year on August 28, Emirati Women’s Day is a testament to the spirit and contributions of Emirati women in all sectors of the UAE economy.
Arabian Business caught up with seven Emirati women trailblazers, who shared their stories of success, courage, strength, and what Emirati Women’s Day really means to them.
Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi
In the UAE, Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi stands as a beacon of leadership, cultural enrichment, and social empowerment.
She leads the Sharjah International Film Festival (SIFF) as well as other numerous humanitarian, social, and philanthropic projects, with her work leaving a last impact both locally and on the global stage.
With a steadfast commitment to fostering cultural diversity, education, and the promotion of media arts, Sheikha Jawaher expressed her pride in the achievements of SIFF.
She highlighted the festival’s role in celebrating the art of storytelling, embracing cultural diversity, and nurturing the next generation of filmmakers.
“It is rewarding to see the outcomes and witness how we can positively affect so many lives, but there is much more we have in the plans,” she told Arabian Business.
Emirati Women’s Day, she said, holds a special place in her heart.
To her, this occasion represents a moment of self-reflection and a celebration of the remarkable strides made by Emirati women. “Emirati Women’s Day to me is a moment for us to stop and appreciate ourselves, our achievements, how much we’re doing, and the social changes we’re creating. It is a day to reflect on how far we’ve come and look at how we need to progress further,” she said.
However, looking back on her journey as a leader, Sheikha Jawaher told us of some of the challenges she faced.
“The challenges I faced as a leader had nothing to do with being Emirati, it was more of the challenges anyone in a leadership position would face as they start. It is the transfer into a new role, the responsibility that comes with it, and the personal and professional changes that one has to make, needing to be more assertive, learning from your mistakes and so on. Being an Emirati woman actually made me stronger and I had more support. The support we have as Emirati women starting from family, to community, to government – is tremendous,” she said.
Reflecting on her youth, Sheikha Jawaher expressed satisfaction with the choices she made. She noted that she was fortunate to have had numerous opportunities and the freedom to pursue them, adding that she did not wish for any specific lessons or changes in her younger self, as her journey unfolded organically.
However, to the young girls of the UAE, Sheikha Jawaher has a message.
“To the young girls of the UAE I would like to say that they should always believe in themselves, and pursue their passions, nurture talents and continue on their set path. Support will come from unknown places and we as a community are here to do all we can to keep empowering the new generation of Emirati women.”
In addition, Sheikha Jawaher envisions a future where women hold more leadership positions across all industries.
“I would love to see more women in leading positions across all industries, and I want to see the world take UAE as an example of how societies can evolve with women as decision-makers. There is still much work to be done in breaking stereotypes and advancing into segments like aviation, technology and IT, engineering and construction, and others,” she said.
Salama Mohamed
Not only UAE, but the world has seen her. From making engaging, heart-warming videos to launching a major skincare company titled ‘Peacefull’, Salama Mohamed is more than just a friendly face – she is an entrepreneur, an influencer, a mother, and most importantly, someone who has managed to bring smiles all around.
Having over 1.5 million followers on Instagram, Mohamed’s passion lies in redefining the global beauty industry. In an exclusive interview with Arabian Business, Mohamed revealed her personal journey, the concept behind Peacefull, and her vision for the future.
“I am a mother of two and I am a creator at heart. My entrepreneurial journey started through my commitment to encouraging others to celebrate their individuality, cultivate self-care, and promote a positive self-image,” she said.
Mohamed has been recognised as one of the most notable Emirati women globally, especially as she has been transparent with her journey with vitiligo – which drove her to introduce Peacefull.
“The idea for Peacefull came to me when I realised that living in the Middle East and being blessed with vitiligo, I was a minority within a minority in the global beauty industry. Our region’s unique skin needs and insecurities were often overlooked. I saw a chance to give our region a voice, to tackle this issue with an effective solution.
“Peacefull is certainly people-powered. The formulas are tailored to the region’s needs and backed by science. Its main takeaway is advocating and championing for people to feel at home in their own skin,” she said.
When asked about Peacefull’s current valuation, Mohamed said, “I prefer to emphasise on the ‘purposeful’ valuation of Peacefull, its impact on the wellbeing of its community. Its valuation is based on our promise of transparency, continuous innovation, effective practices, and being a positive influence.”
Speaking about Emirati Women’s Day, she said that this day is significant for recognising the incredible strides taken to create such an inclusive, aspirational environment “where Emirati women can thrive together – as innovators, creators, visionaries, and leaders.”
However, her journey is not free of challenges and one of them was not having a role model as she rose to the top.
“One of the main challenges I faced, as an Emirati businesswoman, was not finding a female role model, one that I could emulate or reach out to for advice or guidance. I discovered the reason behind that was, not just because of the scarcity of entrepreneurial women, but also because it used to be a preference to fly under the radar. I am proud to state that that has changed over the years, with women becoming influential and prominent forces and contributors in various sectors and industries.,” she said.
When asked what is the one thing her younger self had known, she said that she wished she could tell herself that all the things that made her stand out and be different from everyone else were, and continue to be “the sources of my strength and creativity. Embrace what makes you an outlier for it is in your uniqueness that you find your purpose.”
For young girls in the UAE, Mohamed believes that aspirations, dreams, and curiosities are “worthy of pursuit. Discovering your potential is not just for your benefit but also for those around you – be it your community of sisters, young professionals, and even your country.”
Mohamed is currently planning her steps for a “strategic yet conscious” global domination. She wants to bring a change in the skincare industry, and is urging for a more holistic approach. “People tend to overlook the interconnectedness of skincare with an individual’s overall wellbeing, self-care practices, and lifestyle. Besides a product-focused approach, the industry must involve and explain how factors like hydration, stress management, nutrition, sleep, and exercise all play a vital role in promoting skin health.
“I am looking forward to introducing our next range of skincare products that feature ingredients that pay homage to our region,” she said.
Huda Al Matroushi
A trailblazer in the field of automotive maintenance, has shattered the gender barrier in the UAE by becoming the country’s first-ever female car mechanic.
Al Matroushi, who runs her own garage in the UAE – Imex Car Service in Sharjah’s Industrial Area 1 – also works a day job with the Sharjah Government, where she heads a department.
In an exclusive interview, Ms. Al Matrooshi shared her inspiring journey and her vision for the future.
From a young age, Al Matroushi showed a passion for fixing things and experimenting with remote-controlled gadgets. Her curiosity in discovering faults, along with her natural aptitude for mechanics, set her on a path that would ultimately redefine her role in society.
While the world celebrates Emirati Women’s Day once a year, Al Matroushi believes that women’s contributions to society should be acknowledged daily.
“Women’s Day is 365 days, in appreciation of what she does in society in terms of upbringing, guidance, education, and motivation,” she told Arabian Business,
Al Matrooshi’s journey to becoming the UAE’s first female car mechanic was not without its challenges. According to her, reaching success requires “patience, knowledge, and knowing how to plan for the future and face difficulties.”
Her determination and perseverance led her to acquire expertise in car maintenance, diagnosing faults, and even car programming, breaking barriers traditionally seen as male-dominated fields.
Al Matrooshi’s pioneering spirit and dedication caught the attention of UAE president and Ruler of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 2021, so much so that he personally called her to congratulate her on being the first women to open a garage in the UAE.
During their phone call, Sheikh Mohamed conveyed his pride in her achievement as the first woman to establish a car maintenance workshop. He also humorously mentioned having a car that required some repairs.
Two years later, Al Matroushi still pushes herself to be the best at what she does. Her remarkable journey exemplifies how passion, determination, and a commitment to breaking barriers can lead to a brighter and more inclusive future for all.
“I do not stop at one destination, I complete the journey and continue my career until I can put a stamp on the UAE automobile industry as the pride of the Emirates,” Al Matroushi said.
Amna Al Qubaisi
At just 23 years old, Amna Al Qubaisi from the UAE has not only made her mark in the world of motorsports but has also shattered gender barriers as the first Emirati female racing driver in both Formula 4 and Formula 3.
Speaking to Arabian Business, Al Qubaisi shared her remarkable journey and the drive behind her success. Al Qubaisi ‘s venture into motorsports was sparked by a unique passion.
“The reason I chose Motorsport is because I felt it was something unique and something I found a lot of adrenaline in. I never thought I’d make it this far as it started out as a hobby,” she said.
Her family’s support, especially from her father and mother, played a key role in her journey. However, it was the determination to prove those who doubted her wrong that fuelled her relentless pursuit of success.
“The reason that drove me to success would be others doubting or underestimating me. I wanted to prove that I am talented and I was capable of winning, and that’s why I have come this far,” she said.
As an Emirati woman, Al Qubaisi’s journey serves as a testament to not just those in the UAE, but the world over. However, to her Emirati Women’s Day, is more than just recognising achievements. It “means appreciating the women of the UAE and recognising their value,” she said.
Yet, her path to success has not been without its challenges. “Being the only Arab representing the Middle East was the biggest challenge. I’ve dealt with a lot of racism growing up,” she said.
The prejudice she faced due to her background and nationality only fuelled her determination to overcome her hardship. Amna added that she too faced some of the typical challenges that all aspiring drivers face, from securing budgets and sponsorships to gaining valuable experience.
Speaking of her journey so far, she wished her younger self “would have enjoyed every lap and not let the thought of proving others wrong get in the way of what I enjoy and love most. To get rid of that pressure and just have fun.”
However, she added that “persistence is key, nothing ever happens overnight. Things take time, and with patience and hard work, the results will surely come in.”
Despite being the first Emirati woman breaking gender norms and racing to success, Al Qubaisi has a vision for the future, especially in her industry.
“I would like to see more Middle Eastern women competing in international Motorsport championships. We need more Arab representation on the grid, ” she said, adding that she will be making a huge announcement in the near future.
Noora Saeed
In a world where the culinary scene is constantly evolving, Noora Saeed has emerged as a well-known restaurateur, as she helps transform the landscape of dining experiences in the UAE and beyond.
As the founder and managing director of Love Vibe Café, Restaurant & Bar, Saeed’s journey is one that caters to her passion, innovation, and unwavering commitment to providing extraordinary dining experiences.
After exploring different countries and savouring their authentic cuisines, Saeed recognised a yearning in the F&B retail industry—which soon became the driving force behind her mission to fill this culinary gap.
After completing her Master’s in Business at Dubai’s Canadian University in Dubai, Saeed eventually opened up one of Dubai’s biggest hotspots.
“The inspiration behind my journey into F&B and Love Vibe go hand in hand. The need to have a concept sufficing everyone’s healthy needs but at the same time spoiling one’s taste buds were the driving force behind the menu. We strive to study the market and trends and keep up in the menu consistently,” she told Arabian Business.
In 2021, Saeed unveiled her second Love Vibe branch in Dubai, and later opened a new café in Abu Dhabi under the same name in 2023.
However, she did face her moments of doubt, eventually overcoming them. Saeed often reassured herself that she was “good enough,” and she wished that her younger self would know better than to stop evaluating herself.
Eventually, she said, she would “remind myself that with love, dedication, and the right mindset, any obstacle can be transformed into a stepping stone to success. Reminding myself that mistakes are opportunities to learn, and it’s okay not to have everything figured out.”
“My journey is far from over. There are still uncharted culinary landscapes waiting to be explored, new flavours to be discovered, and hearts to be touched through the magic of food,” she said adding she will soon expand the Love Vibe franchise internationally.
Saeed considers herself fortunate to have been born in Dubai, a city that has long understood the importance of women and encouraged them to explore diverse opportunities, she said – which is also one of the main reasons why Emirati Women’s Day holds a special place in her heart.
“I feel a deep sense of pride and gratitude to be born in a country that has nurtured and empowered its women to such an extent,” she said.
“The UAE stands as a shining example of a nation that has recognised the potential and capabilities of its women and has provided them with the freedom and opportunities to thrive.
“This day is a vivid reminder that in the UAE, women are not just part of the workforce; they are driving progress, shaping policies, and leading groundbreaking initiatives,” she explained, adding that “Emirati Women’s Day is a day of pride and joy,” for her.
Despite her successes from owning one of the nation’s most novel restaurant concept, Saeed also acknowledged the competitive nature of the restaurant industry in the UAE – where staying on top requires continuous innovation and the delivery of exceptional dining experiences.
In addition, she also advocates for “stability in the environment.”
“In a world where the concerns for environmental preservation and ethical practices are becoming paramount, I would like to see stability,” she said, adding that plastic has become an “environmental nightmare.
“The quest for sustainability demands innovation on an unprecedented scale. From biodegradable alternatives to recycling technologies that transform plastic waste into valuable resources, innovation holds the key to reversing the plastic crisis. The fight against plastic pollution is a battle for the health of our planet and the well-being of generations to come. It’s time to rewrite the narrative and shape a future where sustainability is not just a concept, but a way of life,” she said.
Saeed also has a message for young girls in the UAE. “Aim high and believe in your ability to turn your aspirations into reality. Embrace your uniqueness, your strengths, and your talents,” she said.
“Remember that your voice matters, and your ideas are valuable. Remember, your potential is limitless. With dedication, hard work, and a belief in yourself, you can achieve greatness and contribute positively to your community and the world. The UAE is a land of opportunity, seize those opportunities, and be the change you wish to see and you have the power to shape its future. Keep pushing boundaries and carving your unique path,” she added.
Alia Al Banna
Skating her way to success is Alia Al Banna, the co-founder and general manager of RollDXB.
Aside from being a sporting enthusiast, Al Banna is also an entrepreneur and an inspiration to Emirati women, especially as she runs one of the biggest hotspots in Dubai.
In an exclusive interview, Al Banna shared her remarkable journey, the beginning of RollDXB, and what Emirati Women’s Day means to her.
A mother of four, Al Banna’s deep passion for sports saw her actively competing in a diverse range of sports, from roller skating to show jumping, fencing, motocross, and shooting in her early years.
Her journey took her through academic pursuits, earning a degree in Business Information Technology, and a highly successful career with Enoc.
Moreover, Al Banna also ventured into the world of fashion, founding an abaya business and also ventured in jewellery design for a select audience.
However, it was her passion for roller skating that led her to co-found RollDXB in 2021 – the Middle East’s first and only indoor roller-skating disco venue – with her sister Reem.
“Our passion for roller skating traces back to our childhood, where we’d eagerly roller skate around our neighbourhood after school or gather at Safa Park with friends and cousins. In 2016, while sitting in my sister’s apartment, we conceptualized the idea of establishing pop-up roller rinks. That same year, we initiated ‘RollDXB’ as a pop-up rink venture, spanning across various locations in the UAE. Witnessing the overwhelming interest from the public, we resolved to establish a permanent facility. We opened RollDXB also to have a safe space for people to come express themselves and have fun,” she told Arabian Business.
However, RollDXB is “more than just a rink,” she added.
“We also handle entertainment, events, and pop-ups. I just enjoy the whole process and it makes my heart full seeing people happy and enjoying our rink and events, whether it’s their first time or they have become a regular customer.”
Speaking about Emirati Women’s Day, Al Banna said it holds a special place in her heart.
“It means we can celebrate all other Emirati women and myself for all the accomplishments they’ve achieved. There are so many Emirati women out there that have accomplished more than I have, and I am proud of every single one of them,” she said.
However, Al Banna stressed on the gender disparities that persist in certain industries, adding that it is but is important to recognise challenges as valuable learning opportunities on the path to success.
“As women with limited technical backgrounds, we faced challenges when dealing with certain contractors in the early stages of our venture. While some supported and helped us with our growth, others posed difficulties. We maintained positive relationships with our suppliers, and our interactions with certain contractors offered valuable insights and learning opportunities,” she said, adding that if she could go back in time she would tell herself that these challenges and setbacks are “valuable learning opportunities” on the way to success.
Nevertheless, Al Banna’s message to young girls in the UAE is one of empowerment and ambition. She encourages them to explore diverse interests and pursue careers that genuinely ignite their passion. She advises them to view challenges as opportunities for growth and to proactively work towards their goals.
“I would advise all young girls to never restrict their potential; explore diverse interests and avoid blindly following trends. Pursue careers that genuinely ignite your passion. Remember, challenges are valuable learning experiences that can propel your growth. Instead of waiting for opportunities, proactively work hard and map out a clear plan to guide your journey towards your goals,” she said.
Sara Al Madani
You may have seen her on Netflix’s The Real Housewives of Dubai.
A prominent figure in the field of entrepreneurship, Dr. Sara Al Madani, is best known for her dynamic presence in the business world as well as for being a public speaker.
In her candid interview with Arabian Business, Al Madani opened up about her journey, success, and her vision for women on Emirati Woman’s Day.
As a single mother and a entrepreneur, Al Madani’s life is a whirlwind of responsibilities. However, she views her role as a mother as a full-time job and an integral part of her identity, adding that titles don’t really matter.
“I am just I’m just a humble human being trying to enjoy this experience called life and to learn as much as I can from it,” she told Arabian Business.
Al Madani’s career in entrepreneurship was not a deliberate choice but rather a calling she felt from a very young age.
“The road to entrepreneurship wasn’t a choice, I think it was something I was born with. Because my parents told me that at the age of three, I used to massage them for money. At the age of five, I used to buy candy and resell it to my cousins. So I feel like entrepreneurship is something you can definitely learn. But there are the there are some entrepreneurs who are born with this extra spice, and I think I had that spice,” she said, adding that her gender has never been an obstacle in her path to success.
For Al Madani, entrepreneurship is not just a career; it’s an inherent part of who she is. She is the chief executive officer of Index Media Company in Dubai.
When asked about her definition of success, Al Madani’s sees success as a fusion of self-love and the act of serving others.
Her belief is that when you genuinely love yourself and extend that love to others, you naturally attract positive outcomes. For her, success is not a one-size-fits-all concept; it’s about making a meaningful impact in the world.
“So if I’m doing these both things, I’m automatically successful. And when you are living from the heart and giving from the heart, which means you love yourself genuinely, and you love people, genuinely, everything around you just falls into place, and you attract the right things. So I feel like me being successful is just that I am just a person that wants to add value. And that’s why success chases me, instead of me chasing success,” she said.
Emirati Woman’s Day holds a special place in Al Madani’s heart. She commends the initiative for celebrating the achievements of women, whether Emirati or not, and sees it as a powerful message of equality.
Al Madani believes this day serves as a “window” of opportunity for women to recognize their potential and break free from societal expectations, encouraging them to grant themselves permission to pursue their dreams.
“If all of these women did it, and we’re celebrating them, any woman can do it. All you have to do is free yourself from the expectation of society, and free yourself from always seeking permission to do whatever you want. Give yourself the permission you need.”
In her journey to the top, Al Madani has faced challenges that are universal, irrespective of gender. She views competition, failure, and the process of learning from failure as common challenges every entrepreneur encounters.
While gender biases do exist in the business world, she has chosen not to let them affect her journey, she said, adding that ignoring these biases and continuing to pursue one’s goals is the way forward.
When asked about advice for her younger self, Al Madani insists on not interfering with the learning process. She believes that experiencing failure and embracing lifelong learning are crucial aspects of personal growth.
Life, she says, “happens for you, not to you,” and it’s a continuous journey of growth and evolution.
“I have nothing to tell my younger self, because if I tell her I ruin the whole experience, she’ll play it safe. I don’t want my younger self to play it safe. I want her to just keep going keep doing because failure is the biggest school you’d ever attend. And I would just tell her forever, you’re going to remain a student of life. You’re never graduating from that because you are continuously growing continue continuously evolving. And no matter what you go through, whether it’s bad or good, it’s all All for you.”
Going forward Al Madani’s message to young girls in the UAE is a powerful call to action. She urges them to unapologetically be themselves, harness the power of being a woman, and create the lives they want.
When asked what is next for Al Madani, she said that the future holds endless possibilities. She’s currently working on launching a brand called “Ficks” that blends creativity, science, and imagination to create innovative products and services for enhancing lifestyle and health.
“Like one of the pillowcases we just created (me and my business partner), has natural nano-particles that explode and create natural melatonin in your pillowcases. And the pillowcase lasts for almost a month and a half, and is also recyclable. So you sleep on the pillow, you have natural melatonin, and you don’t need to take into your body any sort of melatonin because it’s not healthy. So, we created a cool scientific way to take it in a natural way while you’re sleeping without ingesting it,” she said.
In a departure from her previous ventures, this project is all about having fun and exploring new avenues, she said.
Al Madani also extended her wishes women the world over, and hopes her story will inspire them to stop merely existing and start truly living their lives.
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