EMIRATI WOMEN’S DAY SPECIAL
In celebration of Emirati Women’s Day and the 50th Anniversary of the UAE’s General Women’s Union (GWU), QNA International, organisers of the GCC GOV HR and Youth Summit, proudly recognises the nation’s most inspiring women leaders through the Emirati Women Leaders 2025 list.
For over a decade, the GCC GOV HR Summit has served as a platform for leadership, innovation, and collaboration across the UAE’s government and corporate sectors. This year, as the Summit marks 13 years of fostering talent and driving progress, the focus turns to honouring Emirati women whose dedication, vision, and resilience continue to shape the nation’s future.
From healthcare and governance to corporate leadership and community development, these extraordinary women exemplify the values of empowerment, innovation, and service. Their remarkable journeys reinforce the UAE’s commitment to gender equality and inspire young Emirati women to lead with confidence and purpose.
For the first recognition list created under the Emirati Women Leaders 2025, QNA International reached out to some of these remarkable women to hear their inspiring stories, offering a glimpse into their journeys, motivations, and the impact they continue to make across the UAE. Here are quotes from some of the Emirati Women Leaders 2025:
Reflecting on the essence of progress rooted in heritage, H.E. Hessa Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority in Dubai, shared: “We need to honour the legacy of our ancestors while shaping the future of our nation.”
Echoing this vision, H.E. Dr. Maryam Matar, MD, PhD, Founder and Chairperson of the UAE Genetic Diseases Association (UAEGDA), highlighted the role of leadership and inspiration, noting: “The support of my leader, and especially the support and roadmap set for us by the Mother of the Nation, H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak.”
Aysha Suleiman, Director of HR, RAKEZ – “As someone born and raised in the UAE, what inspires me most as a woman leader is the privilege of contributing to the remarkable journey of our nation. I have grown up witnessing the vision of our leadership that empowers women to lead with confidence and purpose. At the same time, I carry the resilience, dignity, and perseverance of the generations before me. Leadership, for me, is not about titles, but about creating opportunities, enabling growth, and opening doors for others. This blend of heritage, responsibility, and opportunity continues to inspire me every day.”
Farida Mohammad Rafi, CHRO at Emirates Islamic – “The vast opportunities being given to women to achieve their full potential inspires me the most when I look at my journey as an Emirati woman leader. Throughout my career, I have realized how these opportunities have been created and are still being created for women’s empowerment, thanks to the astute and visionary leadership we have in this great country. All it requires is one step of courage for a woman to take any of the opportunities available and develop until they reach their full potential.”
Huda Al Abbar, Director – Human Resources Division, Department of Finance, Dubai Government – “What inspires me most in my journey as an Emirati woman leader is the vision of our nation’s leadership, which has always believed in the power and potential of women. Knowing that my work contributes to building a stronger, more inclusive UAE motivates me every day. I am inspired by the responsibility to open doors for future generations of Emirati women — to show them that with determination, they can lead, innovate, and shape the future of our country.”
Sarah AlBakeri, Director of Human Resources – TAQA’s Generation business – “I am honoured to be working hand-in-hand with my Emirati sisters and brothers to support our great nation, the United Arab Emirates. Our wise leadership and initiatives lead by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation, established strong foundations for our country while advancing the role of Emirati women and empowering millions of women worldwide. These foundations are the platform for achieving present and future success, which I am determined to continue contributing to. Congratulations to my Emirati sisters on this important day – you are my biggest inspirations.”
A few names who have been inspiring the team at the GCC GOV HR and Youth Summit in the list are:
● H.H. Sheikha Dr. Alia Al Qassimi, Senior Advisor, Community Development Authority (CDA)
● H.E. Fareda Abdullah, Assistant Undersecretary for national employment, Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratization
● Ayesha Al Hammadi Executive Vice President, Group HC Strategy, Talent and Performance Management, ADNOC Group
● Dr.Nadia Bastaki, Chief People, Government and Corporate Affairs Officer, Etihad Aviation Group
The Emirati Women Leaders 2025 list is now officially released, sharing stories of dedication and leadership with audiences worldwide through QNA International’s global network of media partners, industry leaders, and strategic platforms.
“The Emirati Women Leaders 2025 list celebrates not only professional excellence but also the courage, vision, and impact these women bring to their communities and the nation at large. We are proud to share their stories as a source of inspiration for current and future generations of Emirati leaders,” said QnA International’s Director, Mr. Sidh NC.
