ADNOC Celebrates Emirati Women's Day With Focus On Gender Balance And Leadership Support

H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union (GWU), highlighted Emirati Women's Day as a significant reflection of Emirati women's journey and achievements. In a speech delivered by Dr. Maitha bint Salem Al Shamsi, UAE Minister of State, during ADNOC's 10th annual Emirati Women's Day ceremony, she emphasised the UAE leadership's commitment to women's representation in education and employment.

Sheikha Fatima praised ADNOC for its progress in advancing women's participation in the energy sector. She acknowledged the company's leadership for creating a supportive environment that promotes gender balance and empowers women across all areas of work. This support has enabled women to pursue their ambitions confidently.

Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and ADNOC Managing Director and Group CEO, also spoke at the event. He highlighted the unwavering support of the UAE’s leadership and H.H. Sheikha Fatima in empowering Emirati women. He noted that this support has allowed women to excel in various fields, contributing significantly to the UAE’s development and sustainable growth.

During the ceremony, ADNOC showcased its "Energy for Life" strategy, which helps employees balance work and family life. This strategy includes numerous initiatives and policies promoting work flexibility. Through its partnership with the Department of Community Development, ADNOC aims to enhance families' quality of life and foster a supportive work environment for parents.

ADNOC announced plans to launch a new programme to preserve national identity. This initiative will help parents instil principles of national education in their children while teaching them Emirati customs and cultural heritage.

Recognition of Female Workforce

Sheikha Fatima commended ADNOC’s female workforce for their dedication and efforts. "I must express my heartfelt congratulations for your unwavering commitment and endeavours," she said. "You have become a shining example and an inspiration for future generations who will follow in your footsteps." She expressed confidence that their contributions would pave the way for future women in this sector.

The event included TED-style talks where female employees shared insights on how ADNOC enables them to strengthen family bonds while building successful careers. They also discussed supporting ADNOC's transformation journey towards a lower-carbon future.

Leadership Support

Dr. Al Jaber emphasised that empowering women is a deeply rooted approach established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. He stated that this approach is continuously reinforced by the current leadership and H.H. Sheikha Fatima. "Today, Emirati women are essential partners in the nation’s renaissance," he said.

"Our wise leadership has placed great importance on women," said Sheikha Fatima through Dr. Maitha bint Salem Al Shamsi. "They have been given opportunities, and their energies have been invested so that the UAE can stand as a global model in elevating women's status." She added her appreciation for ADNOC's role in advancing women's participation in the energy sector.

The celebration of Emirati Women’s Day this year was under the theme "We Collaborate for Tomorrow." The event at Abu Dhabi Energy Centre included various activities highlighting women's contributions to family bonds and career success while supporting ADNOC's goals.

Sheikha Fatima highlighted ADNOC’s achievements in expanding women's participation globally as remarkable due to UAE leadership's vision and President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's support.

The dedication of female role models within ADNOC was also praised by Sheikha Fatima for significantly contributing to productivity through training and development opportunities enhancing their scientific capabilities.

The event underscored how strategic programmes continue to develop women's capabilities, solidifying ADNOC’s position as an employer of choice for women in the UAE.

With inputs from WAM