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Honoring 50 years of progress on Emirati Women’s Day 2025

The 2025 theme, “Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years,” resonates deeply with the UAE’s declaration of 2025 as the Year of Community.

Honoring 50 years of progress on Emirati Women’s Day 2025
[Source photo: Krishna Prasad/Fast Company Middle East]

Today, the UAE celebrates Emirati Women’s Day, an occasion that honors the Emirati women’s remarkable contributions and enduring legacy under the support and vision of the nation’s wise leadership.

Observed annually on August 28, this year’s celebration holds special significance as it marks the 50th anniversary of the General Women’s Union (GWU), established by H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak,The Mother of the Nation.”

The 2025 theme, Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years, resonates deeply with the UAE’s declaration of 2025 as the Year of Community. Centered around unity and collaboration, the theme reaffirms a national commitment to gender equality through societal partnerships–between women and men, institutions and communities, public and private sectors.

Since its founding, the GWU has been a cornerstone of women’s advancement in the UAE. Under the leadership of Sheikha Fatima, Emirati women have safeguarded their cultural values and embraced progress in education, governance, innovation, and entrepreneurship. This spirit of empowerment has shaped a national model of inclusion that continues to inspire regionally and globally.

The UAE ranks 13th globally in the 2025 UNDP Gender Equality Index, with women holding 50% of Federal National Council seats and 26% of ministerial roles. Emirati women comprise 71% of the national workforce across sectors, with leadership roles in government, business, diplomacy, and science. Their presence in STEM, space, and entrepreneurship reflects a society that empowers women and relies on them.

The UAE’s efforts have also reached beyond its borders through global initiatives supporting women in peacebuilding, economic empowerment, and sustainable development.

Today’s celebration is not just a tribute to past achievements but a reaffirmation of a shared future.

 

Hand in hand, the UAE moves forward, continuing to build a society where every woman is empowered to lead, create, and thrive.

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