I learned many important lessons on this decent soil, the land of the Emirates where I grew up. I have lived inspiring stories and experiences, which continue to light my way, both at the personal and professional levels…
As an Emirati woman, I lived and grew up without any discrimination and had all the support and guidance that helped me become the person I am today... Many experiences contributed to the convictions that have become firmly established in me about the complementary relationship between men and women, based on respect and mutual support, and what enables them together to serve the community.
I am proud of my belonging to this country, which values women, appreciates their contributions, and removes any barriers that hinder their progress and participation in a path of development that was recognized worldwide. Despite the international attention and appreciation of the progress made by women and their pioneering role in the UAE, I am surprised by some of the stereotypical views, in general, of Arab women and the role they assume in their societies and countries.
This clichéd opinion contradicts reality. In the ancient Emirates, pearl trade was a major lifeline for the economy and society. Men went for long periods on diving trips in search of pearls to secure a living. At that time, business, trade, and the management and care of all family affairs would be undertaken by the women, who have proven, with practical evidence, their ability to assume responsibility at the family and societal levels, and earned with all merit the community’s respect and appreciation.
Since the establishment of the United Arab Emirates fifty years ago, specifically in 1971, our wise leadership has acknowledged the importance of women in serving society and building the foundations of the modern state.
Today, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State, and with the support of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and with the encouragement of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, the UAE continues to provide the best educational opportunities for girls, and to encourage the graduation of female cadres with a high degree of scientific and cognitive qualifications.
Thus, the UAE woman was given unprecedented leadership responsibilities and governmental positions at the regional level and has proven that she is up to the responsibility, demonstrating a full ability to reconcile her family obligations with her daily professional duties.
As we closely review the progress achieved by Emirati women in the fields of work and giving, we cannot but recall the great role assumed by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, President of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood and Supreme President of the Family Development Foundation (Mother of the Emirates). Her Highness’ efforts had a great impact in supporting the empowerment of Emirati women, thus promoting their contribution to the pillars of development and progress in the country.
Furthermore, I cannot but pay tribute to all the efforts made in the various sisterly Arab countries, which seek to enable women to assume roles that complement the contributions of men in advancing the progress of our Arab societies.
Women continue to play an essential role in the development and renaissance of the Arab world, based on the community’s belief in their capabilities, and constant encouragement to unleash their creative energies in various fields.
If we return to the extent of women’s participation in the UAE, we find that today, they occupy 27.5 percent of ministerial positions in the government - one of the highest rates in the Middle East. Moreover, we are working towards achieving the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to reach the 50-percent representation.
Women also constitute 50 percent of the membership of the Federal National Council, the parliamentary body of the UAE, and 42.5 percent of the cadres within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. In addition, the UAE diplomatic corps includes nine female ambassadors and a consul general who represent the bright image of the Emirates abroad.
Emirati women have strengthened their presence in all sectors, including Culture, in which they have left a clear imprint, whether in the field of literary or artistic creativity or international cultural cooperation. This is thanks to the unlimited support provided to them by our leadership to strengthen their position in the Emirati cultural scene and to move confidently towards the Arab and international arenas.
Brilliant names of Emirati women innovators have proven their ability to excel in the cultural field. Their achievements are a source of pride.
Cultural institutions play a pivotal role in achieving sustainable development for cultural and creative work, strengthening the foundations of the cultural renaissance witnessed by the United Arab Emirates, in addition to allowing Emirati women to have an influential presence in the cultural and intellectual movement at the local, regional and global levels.
This is our main mission at the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), where we take into account all the necessary needs for women and men of innovation, to unleash their energies and capabilities to the maximum limits, to foster the cultural scene in the country and contribute to building a diversified and sustainable economy for Dubai and the Emirates in general.
On International Women’s Day, I congratulate all women in the UAE, the region, and the world, and I encourage all of them to continue our journey together towards a better future for all mankind.
Chairperson of Dubai Culture
