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The symposium, titled “The Fifty… A Living History with a Forward-looking Vision”, brought together Her Excellency Aisha Al Mulla, Chairperson of the UAE Businesswomen’s Council, and Fatima Al Mazrouei, Head of the Historical Archives Department at the National Archives and Library, moderated by media professional Sheikha Al Jabri.
The speakers discussed the key milestones that shaped Emirati women’s achievements over the past decades and their continuous role in building society and shaping the future. They highlighted the role of Mother of the Nation, Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, in empowering women, the impact of national policies in promoting gender balance, and showcased Emirati women’s success stories that embodied the leadership’s vision.
Aisha Al Mulla said: “Over the past years, Emirati women have given so much, and to this day remain keen to prove themselves and succeed across all fields, thanks to the continuous support of the UAE, which follows in the footsteps of the late Sheikh Zayed, who from the very establishment of the Union was keen to empower women.”
She added: “As I travel frequently, I have had the opportunity to observe the role of Emirati women not only locally but also globally. What impressed me most was their strong commitment to identity and culture—they prove themselves, leave their mark, and achieve success while remaining true to their religion, Arab values, traditions, and Emirati identity, even beyond the borders of their homeland.”
Al Mulla went on to explain: “Looking back, Emirati women have always played a crucial role in work, education, and upbringing. For instance, women took on multiple responsibilities during the absence of their husbands, who would be away for months on pearl diving journeys. We find the finest example in the mothers of sheikhs—it was they who instilled values, ethics, and knowledge in their sons, raising them to be the founders of the Union and builders of the nation.”
Speaking on women’s political role, Al Mulla affirmed that Emirati women are capable of achieving success in this sphere as well, particularly given their ability to read beyond decisions, connect events, and draw upon their intellectual and cultural resources. She highlighted the importance of the state’s role in granting women every opportunity and facility, enabling them to dedicate their full energies and contributions to the nation.
She concluded her remarks by emphasising the need for Emirati daughters to give their utmost to achieve success for themselves and their country. From her own experience, she shared several pieces of advice: the importance of working diligently and letting one’s work speak for itself; of acting with sincerity and integrity; and of taking inspiration from the mothers of the sheikhs, raising and educating children with dedication and care.
For her part, Fatima Al Mazrouei delivered an introductory presentation affirming the pivotal role of Emirati women since the foundation of the Union, and the role of the leaders and the nation in providing every form of support for women to achieve their aspirations and leave their mark in all fields.
She began by highlighting the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed, and went on to explain how all fields were opened to women. She emphasised that Emirati women were pioneers across every domain without exception, presenting numerous examples and names of women who today serve as role models for all aspiring to hard work and success. She affirmed that every achievement recorded in history is both a source of pride for women and a motivation for them to continue their journey of success.
The symposium was distinguished by the presentation of forward-looking perspectives on the continuation of women’s renaissance and the consolidation of Emirati women’s presence across various sectors. This reflects the depth and uniqueness of the national experience and confirms that women are indispensable partners in sustainable development and the making of the future.
The event concluded with an artistic performance by the Nawaris Al Sharq Choir, organised by the Family Theatre at the Cultural Office. A group of young women showcased values of giving and continuity through a cultural performance that embodied authentic Emirati identity.
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