UAE Women’s Dialogue At Expo 2025 Osaka Showcases Leadership And Empowerment Initiatives

Dubai Women Establishment (DWE) recently organised the "UAE Women’s Dialogue" at Expo 2025 Osaka, highlighting the UAE's leadership in empowering women. The event was under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of DWE. The dialogue showcased the UAE's achievements in gender balance, cultural identity, governance, and sustainability.

H.H. Sheikha Manal expressed gratitude to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for their unwavering support of women's empowerment. She emphasised that the UAE is witnessing tangible outcomes from its leadership’s sustainable approach, ranking high in global competitiveness indicators for gender balance.

The dialogue featured contributions from notable figures like Hala Badri, Director-General of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority; Huda Al Hashimi, Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Strategic Affairs; and Khawla Al Mehairi from DEWA. Mona Ghanem Al Marri opened the session with a welcoming speech, followed by a keynote from Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi.

Sheikha Lubna praised DWE for organising the event at Expo 2025 Osaka, calling it a dynamic platform where ideas converge for a better future. She highlighted her appointment as the UAE’s first female minister in 2004 as a defining moment for Emirati women’s empowerment and noted that today nine female ministers make up nearly a third of the Cabinet.

Mona Al Marri expressed pride in Emirati women’s representation on this global stage. "Thanks to visionary leadership and Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak's care, Emirati women continue to write remarkable success stories," she said. The UAE Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka builds on Expo 2020 Dubai's legacy by recognising women's indispensable role in shaping the future.

H.H. Sheikha Manal reaffirmed DWE’s dedication to enhancing Emirati women’s professional skills through innovative initiatives aligned with national priorities. Over two decades, DWE has set high standards in leadership development and economic empowerment while helping women balance family and work responsibilities.

Global Recognition

Sheikha Lubna emphasised that women's empowerment in the UAE is about leading and excelling globally. In 2023, Emirati women were the largest national group on Forbes’ list of the 100 Most Powerful Arab Businesswomen. In 2024, 14 Emirati women were featured, showcasing dedication to education and equal opportunity as progress cornerstones.

Khawla Al Mehairi highlighted how sustainability and women's empowerment are central to the UAE's vision. "I had the pleasure to participate in ‘UAE Women’s Dialogue’ at Expo 2025 Osaka," she said, noting Dubai Electricity and Water Authority's inclusive policies empowering women in clean energy sectors.

Commitment to Progress

Mariam Al Memari stated that hosting the dialogue at Expo 2025 Osaka reflects commitment to empowering lives and celebrating stories shaping the nation. "Through this forum, we honour Emirati women's leadership," she added. Their insights shape an inclusive tomorrow aligning with national ambitions.

The dialogue underscored themes like gender balance and sustainability as vital areas where women lead impactful change. Huda Al Hashimi noted that empowerment is now a reality backed by clear policies: "The UAE Women’s Dialogue reflects our commitment towards a balanced future."

The event concluded with appreciation for all participants who contributed to this high-calibre dialogue at an international level. It showcased how collaboration between government entities can highlight national achievements with women's advancement as a key pillar.

With inputs from WAM