Honouring Emirati Women Who Have Pivoted The Course Of UAE History
The contributions made by Emirati women to the vibrant mosaic comprising skyscrapers and sand dunes stand as witness to the most important roles they play in carving out the outlines of the nation. These women come from different echelons of society and have played their role not only in the rapid modernization of the UAE but also in safeguarding its rich cultural heritage.
It is here that we honor twelve influential Emirati women whose contributions have helped shape, in more ways than one, the sociocultural and political terrain of the UAE.
Affectionately referred to as the "Mother of the Nation," Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak has taken a serious stance for women's rights, education, and health. Particular credit must go to her leadership in founding the General Women's Union in 1975, a catalyzing force for the implementing of transformative policies and a driver of positive impact on women in the Emirates, creating space wherein women could thrive within education and leadership.
Her Highness Sheikha Salama bint Butti Al Qubaisi The mother of the former President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, founding father of the UAE, may Allah bestow mercy upon him, influence from Sheikha Salama proved instrumental in shaping his visionary leadership. Full of wisdom and counsel, she played an important role in the formative years of the UAE, instilling a strong sense of identity and heritage into her son, which he later wove into the very fabric of the nation.
Ousha bint Khalifa Al Suwaidi Known also as "Fatat Al-Arab", Ousha bint Khalifa Al Suwaidi was an acclaimed poet, whose writings are still considered icons of rich linguistics and depth of culture. Not only did she retain the Emirati dialect in her poetry, but she also preserved in it the spirit of the nation, hence becoming an icon in the UAE literary histories.
Dr. Amal Al Qubaisi Breaking barriers in political arenas, Dr. Amal Al Qubaisi was the first woman to preside over the Federal National Council. Her presidency is a symbolism to progressive female leadership towards the UAE and is an inspiration to many women to engage themselves in politics and governance.
Her Highness Sheikha Hessa bint Al Murr Al Falasi, the grandmother of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai. As her husband was seeding ideas to modernize and transform Dubai from a small trading port into a global city, she could often be seen giving important support and guidance that played a major influential role in the background.
Her Highness Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum A philanthropist in her own right, Sheikha Hind has always worked hard to create education and healthcare. Her work has built the social infrastructure of the UAE, where development and welfare have become synonymous.
Sheikha Shamsa bint Suhail Al Mazrouei An activist in aiding women's education and empowerment, Sheikha Shamsa has contributed much to the educational field of the UAE. Her work allowed many Emirati women to get a higher education and professional career, roles which changed the stereotypical views of women in the Emirates.
HH Sheikha Sana'a bint Mana Al Maktoum A patron of the arts and culture, Sheikha Sana'a plays a vital role in keeping up with the changes of urbanization while continuing to preserve the cultural identity of the UAE. Her devotion to the arts will ensure that art remains eminently present in the dialogue of the nation, past and present.
HH Maryam bint Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan She was a great advocate for traditional Emirati culture and played an instrumental role in the preservation of indigenous crafts and traditions. The work that she has done in preservation ensures that the UAE continues with its heritage, generation after generation.
HH Sheikha Latifa bint Hamdan Al Nahyan: Through her philanthropic work, the undertakings of Sheikha Latifa have been able to improve the lives of women and children in Ajman. And it demonstrates how focused philanthropy can benefit the community well-being and set a precedent for charitable work across the emirates.
HH Sheikha Maitha bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is a sensational sportswoman who has taken part in competitions for the United Arab Emirates in karate and taekwondo at international levels. This clearly helps in breaking stereotypes that are associated with between-gender sports and motivating other young Emirati women to get into athletics and further into other non-stereotyped career.
Her Excellency Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi With the distinction of being the first woman ever to be appointed a ministerial post in the United Arab Emirates government, Sheikha Lubna took upon herself to pioneer the integration of women into the economic and planning sectors. It is a leadership post that has heralded a new epoch where more women sit at high decision-making tables, further proving the relevance of women in governance.
These are visionary women who colored within the lines of cultural and social frameworks in the UAE and moreover underscored the pivotal role of women in guiding and maintaining the development just mentioned. Their legacies woven into the very fabric of Emirati society continued to inspire and drive the UAE towards new heights of success and cultural richness. Their stories are a poignant testimony to the fact that history, both past and future, cannot be written for a nation without the contribution of women.
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