From aviation and aerospace to philanthropy and sports, Emirati women are making a lasting impact across diverse sectors, a testament to both their resilience and the UAE leadership’s commitment to advancing women’s societal contributions. Emirates Group celebrated inspiring personalities during a panel discussion series at its headquarters, part of a full-day programme open to employees across the organisation. The event commenced with an opening keynote delivered by Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Dubai Community Development Authority. In the spirit of this year’s Emirati Women’s Day theme ‘Hand in Hand: We Celebrate 50 Years reaffirming the essential role of Emirati women as partners in the nation's journey of development and progress, the programme that followed included sessions featuring accomplished Emirati women from industries ranging from space, aviation, hospitality, art and education, who shared their stories, inspiring dialogue on women's evolving careers in the UAE and beyond.
The first session, titled Emirati Women in Aviation and Aerospace, featured an impressive line up: Nora Al Matrooshi, the first female Emirati and Arab astronaut; Fatima Al Taher, Head of Government Agenda, Strategy & Planning at Dubai Airports; and Mouza Saeed Rumaihi, Special Handling Manager at dnata.
The second session, titled Emirati Women and Culture, included Dr. Muna Al Hammadi, Assistant Professor in Inclusive Education at Zayed University; Amal Al Marri, Chief Brand Officer and Co-founder of Independent Food Company and Zeinab Al Hashemi, Emirati conceptual artist, designer, and art director.
A special performance by the UAE Ministry of Defence military band, comprising both female and male musicians, set the tone for the day. Attendees also enjoyed a variety of engaging experiences, including creating bespoke fragrances, live portrait sketching, a photography booth, and an interactive art installation.
Celebrating all Emirati women, Emirates Holidays – the tour operating arm of Emirates airline, has launched its first-ever women-only group travel packages. Whether travelling with friends, family or colleagues, these all-inclusive holiday packages are designed to create lasting memories through shared cultural experiences, with the first trip offering women the chance to connect over a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus River in Turkey.
Emirati Women at the Emirates Group: Progress and Empowerment
The number of female Emiratis at the Emirates Group has grown by nearly 10% in the past year, now representing almost 40% of the Group’s UAE national workforce. Nearly 40% of these women were promoted or advanced into new roles within other parts of the organisation over the past 12 months, while more than 50% women currently serve in managerial and executive leadership positions.
The Emirates Group provides Emirati women with targeted career development training and professional growth opportunities to build their expertise, showcase their capabilities, and achieve their career aspirations. More than 120 Emirati women have actively participated in targeted development programmes including the Rolls-Royce and Airbus Leadership Programmes, as well as through the Group’s partnership with INSEAD. Many of these women have taken up critical roles within their respective business units and departments, contributing meaningfully to the Group’s operations and the wider aviation sector.
As an employer of choice and in line with the UAE’s Emiratisation agenda, the Emirates Group continues to scout talented Emiratis to join its multinational workforce and support its growth strategy. By prioritising professional development through mentorship, guidance, and other skill-enhancement tools, the Group builds a strong pipeline of female aviation professionals and future leaders.
