August 28th marks the eighth anniversary of Emirati Women’s Day, an initiative introduced by Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, revered as the ‘Mother of the Nation’. Sheikha Fatima, the wife of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder and first President of the UAE, established this day in 2015 to honour and celebrate the contributions of Emirati women to the nation’s progress and development.

Emirati Women’s Day is a significant occasion recognizing the achievements of women across sectors such as business, government, education, healthcare, and culture. It also highlights the strides made in women’s rights and opportunities within the UAE.

The choice of August 28th holds special significance as it commemorates the founding of the UAE’s General Women’s Union (GWU) in 1975.

Theme of Emirati Women’s Day 2023: ‘We Collaborate for Tomorrow’

This year’s Emirati Women’s Day theme, ‘We Collaborate for Tomorrow,’ resonates with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s declaration of 2023 as the ‘Year of Sustainability.’ This theme emphasizes the UAE’s commitment to finding innovative solutions for challenges in energy, sustainability, and climate change.

Sheikha Fatima stated, “Every year, we proudly announce an inspiring theme for Emirati Women’s Day, and this national occasion is a priority for us. This day highlights a set of objectives which aligns with the country’s global leadership in recognizing and empowering women.”

The UAE has made remarkable strides in gender equality, with a 2022 report from the World Economic Forum ranking the UAE first in global gender equality rankings. This achievement is evident in various indicators, including primary, secondary, and tertiary education enrollment, the sex ratio at birth, women’s representation in parliament, and ministerial roles.

National Strategy for Empowerment of Emirati Women 2023-2031

On this Emirati Women’s Day, Sheikha Fatima unveiled the National Strategy for Empowerment of Emirati Women. Aligned with her vision for inclusive women’s participation in all sectors, the strategy focuses on three key pillars:

• Strengthening families to enhance women’s roles
• Integrating women into the labour market and emerging sectors
• Developing women’s skills and capabilities for the future

This strategy also involves enhancing the legislative and regulatory environment to support women’s quality of life and fostering partnerships at national and international levels.

The General Women’s Union, in partnership with relevant government bodies, will spearhead the strategy’s implementation, with ministries, agencies, and civil society organizations playing supporting roles. Periodic assessments and adjustments will ensure the strategy’s goals are met.

Emirati Women’s Day 2023 signifies not only a celebration of women’s achievements but also a commitment to a sustainable future through collaboration, empowerment, and development. With the UAE’s leadership and visionary initiatives, Emirati women continue to play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s progress.