Stars, Strength & Sisterhood: 5th IWD Awards Shine Bright In Dubai Honouring Women

In the heart of Dubai, the 5th Indian Women in Dubai (IWD) Awards illuminated the night with a celebration of the remarkable achievements and contributions of Indian women in the UAE. The prestigious event took place amidst the opulent surroundings of the Zabeel ladies club, under a canopy of stars. The event was graced by the presence of Indian actor Lisa Ray who served as the Guest of Honour and Keynote Speaker, lending her voice and vision to the festivities.

Lisa Ray, renowned for her multifaceted career as an actor, author, entrepreneur, and wellness advocate, captivated the audience with her empowering words. She expressed her awe at the collective energy in the room, attributing it to the remarkable efforts for community betterment. "I entered this room and the energy is unbelievable. It's because of the incredible work for the community. We can accomplish anything together," Ray remarked, further emphasising the pivotal role of women in initiating change, "A woman can start a revolution."

The event was a gathering of visionaries, change-makers, and trailblazers from various fields, highlighted by the attendance of notable figures such as Laila Rahall (Goodwill Ambassador and Head of Protocol & Diplomacy), Shalini Rajan (Head, UAE Business Unit, Air Arabia), Nikita Agarwal (Founder, Buddy Education), and Mary Del Dosso (Mall Director, BurJuman & Reef Mall).

Amidst the celebrations, the evening was enriched by a unique fashion showcase by Studio Blue, Dubai's first Indian fashion rental house. Sabita Agarwal, the designer behind the collection, presented an exquisite array of lehengas, sarees, and gowns, each piece more captivating than the last, bringing a touch of glamour and elegance to the runway.

The event's inclusive spirit was further embodied through two touching performances—one by the Children of Determination and another by Cancer Warriors. Both acts were met with enthusiastic applause and standing ovations, reflecting the audience's admiration for the courage and resilience showcased on stage. These performances, along with the seamless execution of the event by Radha Shah, Shikha Aggarwal, and Makeup by Balvinder, highlighted the collective effort and talent that made the evening unforgettable.

With the 5th IWD Awards, more than 300 attendees bore witness to a landmark celebration. The event, in partnership with Khaleej Times as the official media partner, was not just about handing out awards; it was a testament to the courage, compassion, and the narrative of women who challenge societal norms, break barriers, and strive for excellence in every aspect of life.

Reema Mahajan, Founder of IWD, encapsulated the essence of the evening in her closing remarks. She called upon the community to continue recognising and celebrating the extraordinary women who inspire, uplift, and redefine what it means to be a woman in contemporary society.

"This event has always been about more than awards — it's about courage, compassion, and celebrating the stories of women who are building businesses and babies, women who have challenged the status quo and women who are breaking barriers every day," Mahajan shared, looking forward to the future chapters of IWD's inspiring journey.