This August 2021, UAE will celebrate its 6th Emirati Women’s Day as a marker of how far women in the Emirate have journeyed to gaining an equal footing to men in society. This achievement is, in no way, neither insignificant nor singular, for the nation’s forces have aligned to make deliberate efforts to craft laws, propel economic prosperity, and provide the system where women feel empowered and encouraged to seize every opportunity and do not let antiquated gender norms stand in the way of their progress.
Women have seen their rights, status, and prosperity grow in sync with the UAE. With the discovery of oil, UAE began a swift march towards economic stability, which gave women the opportunity to seek education and aspire for the great skies of opportunity.
One person instrumental in bringing this transformational change, as well as initiating the custom of Emirati Women’s Day, is a woman without whom this conversation would be several milestones behind – Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Al Ketbi. Born to a religious Bedouin family and married to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder and inaugural president of United Arab Emirates, she ably recognized the limited, curtailed lives being led by women in the UAE.
Armed with wisdom and unafraid to make broad sweeping changes, she set to the task with determination. She founded the first women’s assembly ever in 1973, followed by her establishing the General Woman’s Union (GWU) in 1975, which has steadfastly persevered to empower the national mechanism for the empowerment and entrepreneurship of women in the United Arab Emirates. Over four decades, she launched initiatives and put in resolute effort to create spaces for women to engage in public and private spheres, bringing the nation together for a common goal, which was recognized by the Global Agenda Council of the World Economic Forum in 2014 – UAE was now at the forefront of championing women’s rights, maintaining their dignity and cementing their social standing.
The efforts yielded stupendous results, causing the UAE to jump up into the top 30 positions amongst 177 countries that have made strides in women’s rights by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). Commemorating UAE’s strides in this area and commitment to its women, the first Emirati Women’s Day was celebrated on August 28th, 2015. The choice of date is a deliberate coincidence with the foundation of the UAE’s General Women’s Union launched on the same date in 1975.

An Equal Letter of The Law
Over the years, as voices of women grow more robust, and as the nation wakes up to the potential and power that educated, empowered, self-possessed women bring to the culture and economy of a nation, the matter of gender equality has risen to occupy center stage. On the legislation front, the Constitution guarantees legal equality to men and women, with women holding the same legal status, claim to titles, access to education, right to vote, right to equal pay, the right to practice professions, and the right to inherit property as men.
Laws have been updated too, to better suit the present climate and requirements of citizens. Earlier, the UAE Labour Law granted women 45 days of maternity leave, with no provisions for paternity leave. The new Dubai International Financial Centre Employment Law, which came into effect in June, changes the maternity leave to 65 working days, with the first half at full pay and second at half pay, and paternity leave of five days. On the personal front, a new domestic violence law came into effect in March 2020 that included provisions enabling women to obtain restraining orders against abusers.
The Edifice of Empowerment
Legal principles serve as the bedrock, but the true transformation of a society is affected through everyday practices, change in mindsets, and the courage of people to go against the tide, to reject the way things have always been done. Going past a time when few women would seek higher education, today in literacy, the numbers speak for themselves – 70% of university graduates in UAE are women, and their literacy rate stands at 95.8%.
Women have seen their rights, status, and prosperity grow in sync with the UAE
In the professional sphere, women are coming to slowly occupy spaces and positions typically reserved for men. 35% of the women in the UAE are employed in the national workforce, and 20% of administrative posts are held by women. The Federal National Council, too, announced that women would represent half of its 40-member council.
Such strides were not made overnight. Instead, it was the thorough building of a safe and inclusive atmosphere in the country where women felt encouraged and welcomed into the workplace. Furthermore, women from other diverse communities also find excellent career and business opportunities. Apart from the countless career options, the UAE is also internationally recognized as a safe haven for women to work.
All this points to a commitment – An ode to progress made, a benchmark set in the present, and a fervent hope to scale it immeasurably in the future.
Changing Perceptions
That is not to say that all dreams of equality have been realized. Even today, only Emirati men can pass on citizenship to offspring, and birth certificates are not issued to Emirati mothers and international fathers, which leaves their children stateless. These children become adults with no access to basic rights and services throughout their lives.
In the past, a lack of progressive outlook from largely patriarchal influences of ministers and religious leaders created a perception that women were unfit for public spaces and leadership positions. Contemporary public discourse and critical feminist theory researcher Dabya al-Rafaei said, “Religious figures operated as powerful orators capable of shaping and maintaining public opinion in favor of conservative norms and policies that largely contributed to keeping Khaleeji [those from the Gulf region] women submissive and hidden from sight.” The emergence of the internet and the proliferation of social media began to challenge long-held beliefs, as the voices of women across the world mingled with those of Emirati women, making them louder and more undeniable. “With more women challenging discriminatory policies, highlighting their inferior status in society, or simply sharing snippets from their daily lives, it was no longer possible to monopolize the discourse around the place of women in the Gulf,” al-Rafaei explained. As women become more visible, so do the injustices against them.
As we stand the cusp of this year’s Emirati Women’s Day, the theme stands out – Women: Ambitions & Inspiration for the Next 50 years. As has been in the past, when the Emirate and its women emerged together in the modern world, the next 50 years will delightfully reveal just how high the nation and its women with their fates linked to each other can fly.
The present-day world presents challenges that were unforeseen before – a hyper-connected world with fractured relations, inter-region conflict, ever-changing ideas of gender identity and hence liberation, all under the looming threat of environmental catastrophe. Inspiration for women will come from diverse ideas, as those that have been oppressed find the courage to speak out to a world finally listening to them. Women’s ambitions cannot be for women alone; they must aspire to take the world ahead with them.
134 Comments
JorgeRen
Mexican Easy Pharm: Mexican Easy Pharm – reputable mexican pharmacies online
Albertjouth
https://cytpharm.com/# CytPharm
prednisone for dogs
Albertjouth
https://semapharm24.com/# semaglutide best price
prednisone 2 5 mg
Albertjouth
http://kamapharm.com/# Kama Pharm
prednisone 30 mg tablet
Albertjouth
https://kamapharm.shop/# Kama Pharm
order prednisone 100g online without prescription
Albertjouth
http://predpharm.com/# PredPharm
buy prednisone 10mg online
Albertjouth
https://predpharm.com/# PredPharm
200 mg prednisone daily
Albertjouth
https://predpharm.shop/# buying prednisone from canada
prednisone over the counter
Albertjouth
http://cytpharm.com/# CytPharm
prednisone tablets 2.5 mg
Albertjouth
https://cytpharm.shop/# buy cytotec online
how to get prednisone tablets
Albertjouth
https://predpharm.shop/# where can i buy prednisone without a prescription
prednisone 15 mg tablet
Albertjouth
https://dappharm.com/# dapoxetine price
generic prednisone for sale
Albertjouth
https://dappharm.shop/# buy priligy
prednisone cream
Albertjouth
http://kamapharm.com/# Kama Pharm
prednisone 10mg tablet price
Michaelbug
https://farmatadalitaly.com/# top farmacia online
Farmacie online sicure
Michaelbug
http://farmaprodotti.com/# comprare farmaci online con ricetta
Farmacia online piГ№ conveniente
Michaelbug
https://farmaprodotti.shop/# farmacie online sicure
Farmacia online miglior prezzo
Michaelbug
http://farmasilditaly.com/# viagra pfizer 25mg prezzo
top farmacia online
Michaelbug
http://farmatadalitaly.com/# farmacie online autorizzate elenco
farmacie online sicure
Bradleysep
п»їFarmacia online migliore: Farma Prodotti – comprare farmaci online con ricetta
comprare farmaci online all’estero
Lannyidoth
Security measures ensure a safe environment.: phmacao com – phmacao com login
WilliammAb
Gaming regulations are overseen by PAGCOR. https://phtaya.tech/# Slot tournaments create friendly competitions among players.
Davidprief
http://phmacao.life/# Online gaming is also growing in popularity.
Visitors come from around the world to play.
Lannyidoth
Loyalty programs reward regular customers generously.: phtaya – phtaya.tech
Davidprief
http://phtaya.tech/# Many casinos provide shuttle services for guests.
Most casinos offer convenient transportation options.
WilliammAb
Gambling can be a social activity here. https://jugabet.xyz/# La competencia entre casinos beneficia a los jugadores.
Davidprief
https://jugabet.xyz/# Las apuestas mГnimas son accesibles para todos.
Cashless gaming options are becoming popular.
Lannyidoth
The Philippines offers a rich gaming culture.: phtaya casino – phtaya.tech
WilliammAb
Security measures ensure a safe environment. http://taya365.art/# Online gaming is also growing in popularity.
Davidprief
https://phmacao.life/# Many casinos offer luxurious amenities and services.
Gaming regulations are overseen by PAGCOR.
Lannyidoth
Los jugadores deben conocer las reglas.: winchile casino – winchile.pro
WilliammAb
Casino promotions draw in new players frequently. http://phtaya.tech/# Some casinos have luxurious spa facilities.
Davidprief
http://jugabet.xyz/# Las promociones de fin de semana son populares.
The casino industry supports local economies significantly.
Lannyidoth
Las apuestas mГnimas son accesibles para todos.: winchile – winchile casino
Davidprief
https://phtaya.tech/# Many casinos host charity events and fundraisers.
The Philippines has a vibrant nightlife scene.
WilliammAb
A variety of gaming options cater to everyone. https://taya777.icu/# Casino visits are a popular tourist attraction.
Lannyidoth
Los jugadores pueden disfrutar desde casa.: winchile casino – winchile.pro
Davidprief
http://winchile.pro/# Los bonos de bienvenida son generosos.
Slot machines attract players with big jackpots.
WilliammAb
Most casinos offer convenient transportation options. https://winchile.pro/# Muchos casinos tienen salas de bingo.
Davidprief
https://phtaya.tech/# The casino scene is constantly evolving.
Live music events often accompany gaming nights.
Lannyidoth
Los casinos son lugares de reuniГіn social.: jugabet.xyz – jugabet.xyz
WilliammAb
Many casinos have beautiful ocean views. http://winchile.pro/# La Г©tica del juego es esencial.
Davidprief
http://winchile.pro/# Las mГЎquinas tienen diferentes niveles de apuesta.
Loyalty programs reward regular customers generously.
PatrickMug
Casinos often host special holiday promotions.: phtaya login – phtaya.tech
Lannyidoth
Responsible gaming initiatives are promoted actively.: phmacao com login – phmacao
WilliammAb
Casino promotions draw in new players frequently. https://taya365.art/# Players can enjoy high-stakes betting options.
Davidprief
https://jugabet.xyz/# Muchos casinos tienen salas de bingo.
Cashless gaming options are becoming popular.
Lannyidoth
Los croupiers son amables y profesionales.: jugabet – jugabet chile
Davidprief
https://jugabet.xyz/# La adrenalina es parte del juego.
The thrill of winning keeps players engaged.
WilliammAb
Players must be at least 21 years old. http://phmacao.life/# Some casinos have luxurious spa facilities.
Lannyidoth
Los jugadores deben conocer las reglas.: win chile – winchile casino
Davidprief
https://phmacao.life/# п»їCasinos in the Philippines are highly popular.
Many casinos have beautiful ocean views.
WilliammAb
Casino visits are a popular tourist attraction. https://jugabet.xyz/# Los jackpots progresivos atraen a los jugadores.
Lannyidoth
High rollers receive exclusive treatment and bonuses.: taya365 – taya365.art
Davidprief
https://phtaya.tech/# Manila is home to many large casinos.
Many casinos provide shuttle services for guests.
Lannyidoth
Entertainment shows are common in casinos.: phtaya.tech – phtaya login
Lannyidoth
Las estrategias son clave en los juegos.: jugabet chile – jugabet chile
Davidprief
http://phtaya.tech/# The Philippines has several world-class integrated resorts.
Many casinos offer luxurious amenities and services.
Lannyidoth
La mayorГa acepta monedas locales y extranjeras.: jugabet casino – jugabet casino
Davidprief
https://taya365.art/# A variety of gaming options cater to everyone.
Visitors come from around the world to play.
Lannyidoth
The Philippines offers a rich gaming culture.: taya777 login – taya777.icu
Davidprief
http://taya777.icu/# The Philippines offers a rich gaming culture.
Loyalty programs reward regular customers generously.
Lannyidoth
Loyalty programs reward regular customers generously.: taya365.art – taya365.art
WilliammAb
The thrill of winning keeps players engaged. https://phtaya.tech/# Gambling regulations are strictly enforced in casinos.
Davidprief
https://jugabet.xyz/# Los casinos celebran festivales de juego anualmente.
Gambling regulations are strictly enforced in casinos.
Lannyidoth
Las aplicaciones mГіviles permiten jugar en cualquier lugar.: winchile casino – winchile
Davidprief
http://taya777.icu/# Players enjoy both fun and excitement in casinos.
Many casinos offer luxurious amenities and services.
Lannyidoth
La diversiГіn nunca se detiene en los casinos.: jugabet.xyz – jugabet casino
Davidprief
http://winchile.pro/# Es comГєn ver jugadores sociales en mesas.
The Philippines offers a rich gaming culture.
WilliammAb
The ambiance is designed to excite players. https://jugabet.xyz/# Los juegos en vivo ofrecen emociГіn adicional.
Lannyidoth
Entertainment shows are common in casinos.: taya365 com login – taya365.art
Davidprief
https://phtaya.tech/# The casino industry supports local economies significantly.
Online gaming is also growing in popularity.
Davidprief
http://phmacao.life/# The Philippines has a vibrant nightlife scene.
The Philippines has several world-class integrated resorts.
Lannyidoth
Online gaming is also growing in popularity.: taya365 login – taya365.art
Davidprief
http://winchile.pro/# Los casinos organizan noches de trivia divertidas.
Many casinos offer luxurious amenities and services.
Lannyidoth
Las tragamonedas ofrecen grandes premios.: jugabet casino – jugabet chile
WillieGar
discount drugs: discount drug mart – discount drug pharmacy
Michaelemeli
no prescription needed canadian pharmacy https://xxlmexicanpharm.com/# xxl mexican pharm
CharlesSaw
canadian online pharmacy no prescription https://discountdrugmart.pro/# discount drug mart pharmacy
WillieGar
canadian pharmacy king reviews: easy canadian pharm – easy canadian pharm
Michaelemeli
canadian pharmacy world coupon https://megaindiapharm.com/# MegaIndiaPharm
CharlesSaw
online pharmacy prescription https://discountdrugmart.pro/# discount drug mart
Michaelemeli
online pharmacy prescription https://familypharmacy.company/# Best online pharmacy
WillieGar
canada pharmacy not requiring prescription: canadian pharmacy discount coupon – family pharmacy
CharlesSaw
no prescription required pharmacy https://megaindiapharm.com/# п»їlegitimate online pharmacies india
Michaelemeli
uk pharmacy no prescription https://xxlmexicanpharm.com/# xxl mexican pharm
WillieGar
easy canadian pharm: canada rx pharmacy – easy canadian pharm
WillieGar
xxl mexican pharm: mexican pharmaceuticals online – xxl mexican pharm
Michaelemeli
cheapest prescription pharmacy https://familypharmacy.company/# family pharmacy
CharlesSaw
online pharmacy non prescription drugs https://easycanadianpharm.com/# easy canadian pharm
WillieGar
xxl mexican pharm: mexican online pharmacies prescription drugs – xxl mexican pharm
Michaelemeli
international pharmacy no prescription http://discountdrugmart.pro/# discount drugs
CharlesSaw
pharmacy no prescription required http://megaindiapharm.com/# Mega India Pharm
WillieGar
xxl mexican pharm: mexican rx online – reputable mexican pharmacies online
Michaelemeli
canadian pharmacy coupon https://discountdrugmart.pro/# discount drug mart pharmacy
CharlesSaw
pharmacy no prescription required http://megaindiapharm.com/# best india pharmacy
Michaelemeli
canadian pharmacy without prescription https://xxlmexicanpharm.shop/# xxl mexican pharm
WillieGar
MegaIndiaPharm: indian pharmacy online – Mega India Pharm
Michaelemeli
online pharmacy prescription https://megaindiapharm.com/# Mega India Pharm
WillieGar
best online pharmacy india: reputable indian pharmacies – Mega India Pharm
Michaelemeli
cheapest pharmacy to fill prescriptions without insurance https://easycanadianpharm.com/# canadian discount pharmacy
Michaelemeli
canadian online pharmacy no prescription https://easycanadianpharm.shop/# easy canadian pharm
WillieGar
easy canadian pharm: reputable canadian online pharmacy – easy canadian pharm
Michaelemeli
canadian pharmacies not requiring prescription http://discountdrugmart.pro/# drug mart
CharlesSaw
no prescription required pharmacy http://easycanadianpharm.com/# easy canadian pharm
WillieGar
online pharmacy delivery usa: pharmacy coupons – Best online pharmacy
Michaelemeli
canadian pharmacy world coupon code https://easycanadianpharm.shop/# easy canadian pharm
CharlesSaw
canadian pharmacy no prescription needed https://xxlmexicanpharm.com/# xxl mexican pharm
WillieGar
Online medicine order: Mega India Pharm – best india pharmacy
Michaelemeli
canada pharmacy not requiring prescription https://discountdrugmart.pro/# discount drug pharmacy
CharlesSaw
us pharmacy no prescription http://easycanadianpharm.com/# easy canadian pharm
Michaelemeli
pharmacy no prescription required http://discountdrugmart.pro/# discount drug mart
WillieGar
mexican border pharmacies shipping to usa: xxl mexican pharm – xxl mexican pharm