The ultimate celebration of power, progress & pride.
From boardrooms to breakthroughs, and fashion runways to frontlines of innovation — Emirati women have been rewriting the UAE’s story in bold, brilliant ink. They’re the dreamers and disruptors who have been shaping the nation’s future while honouring its cultural roots. And on August 28th, the whole country hits pause so we can celebrate them.
Emirati Women’s Day isn’t just another date on the calendar, it’s a high-voltage tribute to every fearless female who has pushed boundaries and set new benchmarks for what’s possible.
Founded in 2015 by the Mother of the Nation, Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the day is no coincidence: August 28th marks the anniversary of the General Women’s Union (GWU), established in 1975 as a force for women’s rights and empowerment in the Emirates. For five decades, the GWU has been the quiet power and public champion behind policies, initiatives, and cultural shifts that have changed women’s lives across the nation.
Sheikha Fatima’s mission is to create a space where women’s voices aren’t just heard, they’re celebrated and heard.
Launched by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Al Ketbi, Mother of the Nation, in 2015, this annual event honours women’s contributions.
The 2025 Theme: ‘Hand in Hand’
This year’s theme mirrors the UAE’s national focus on ‘community’ and we’re talking real community, where women and men work side by side to build a united, unstoppable future. ‘Hand in Hand’ champions social cohesion, collaboration across sectors, and the undeniable truth that gender equality isn’t just a women’s issue.
And 2025 is extra special: it marks 50 years since the GWU’s founding, a golden milestone in the journey of women’s empowerment. Expect this year’s events to be equal parts nostalgic reflection and forward-looking ambition.
Highlights from Previous Years
Over the past decade, Emirati Women’s Day has been a mix of glamour, recognition and inspiring conversations:
- 2024: Dubai’s Museum of the Future lit up in tribute, while Sharjah hosted panel talks with trailblazing women in STEM, art, and politics.
- 2023: The UAE Space Agency honoured female engineers and astronauts, with the unforgettable moment of Emirati women speaking live to astronauts aboard the ISS.
- 2022: Cultural institutions launched exhibitions dedicated to pioneering women in the arts, while luxury brands rolled out limited-edition collaborations celebrating Emirati heritage.
- 2021: The year of the frontline heroes — with healthcare workers, scientists, and volunteers recognised for their role during the pandemic.
Emirati Women’s Day last year, 2024.
Each year, it’s a showcase of just how diverse and dynamic Emirati women’s contributions really are, from skyscraper architects to AI innovators, from entrepreneurs who’ve gone global to educators shaping the next generation.
What to Expect in 2025
This year’s celebrations promise everything from national award ceremonies to city-wide art installations, pop-up talks with powerhouse leaders, and yes, the kind of Instagrammable moments that will flood your feed. Think heritage-meets-high-tech, storytelling sessions, and community events that bring the ‘Hand in Hand’ message to life.
In the UAE, women aren’t just part of the story, they’re actually writing it. And on Emirati Women’s Day, the entire nation reads every word.
