Founded by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, also known as the Mother of the Nation, back in 2015, Emirati Women’s Day has quickly become one of the country’s most-loved celebrations.
Each year, the special day serves as a reminder of all that the UAE’s women have achieved over the years, and promotes the importance of gender equality and women’s empowerment. And each year, Emirati Women’s Day follows a different theme — 2024’s pick being “We share for tomorrow”. Keeping that note in mind, Vogue Arabia puts it lens on three Emirati women who have dedicated their lives towards facilitating a greener, healthier, more sustainable tomorrow for their country. Below, they reveal their inspiring stories.
Dr. Mohsenah Alyami, Consultant, Strategic Advisory, Middle East at AtkinsRéalis
Tell us about yourself and what you do to help create a more sustainable future for the UAE.
As a consultant within the Strategic Advisory team at AtkinsRéalis in the Middle East, I advise public and private sector clients on sustainable planning and execution of their programs and projects across the built environment industry, particularly in the UAE and GCC countries. As part of my role, I primarily focus on integrating sustainability into urban development by implementing strategies that reduce carbon emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and promote renewable energy.
Last year, at COP28, I had the privilege to be part of showcasing AtkinsRéalis’ commitments towards driving climate change actions and supporting the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategic initiative at such a global platform. AtkinsRéalis has joined forces along with over 350 industry leaders as part of the World Green Building Council’s Open Letter initiative aimed at driving a unified call to action, reflecting the critical role of the built environment sector in delivering climate change solutions and mitigation plans.
What inspired you to take on the task of working on a greener, stronger future?
My inspiration to work towards a greener, stronger future stems from the profound motivation provided by our country and its leadership. Sheikh Zayed’s visionary transformation of the UAE from a desert into a flourishing oasis deeply inspired me, as did the nation’s evolution into a knowledge-based economy focused on innovation and sustainability. This encouraged me to specialize in the field of sustainability, and during my Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) research, I further explored how sustainable development can be advanced through effective knowledge management in both the public and private sectors. This blend of national inspiration and academic focus drives my commitment towards sustainable progress.
Tell us one reason you feel lucky to be an Emirati woman.
As an Emirati woman, I feel empowered every day by the motivation and support we receive from the leadership of our country and the remarkable progress our country has achieved. We are constantly encouraged to reach new heights, whether in our careers, education, or even politics. This empowerment stems from the unique combination of opportunities available to us, the unwavering support, and most importantly, the UAE’s progressive approach to gender equality. Our country has become a global example, demonstrating how women’s empowerment can drive national success and inspire others around the world, I am proud to contribute to its ongoing success.
Also, working in the private sector at a global company, such as AtkinsRéalis, committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion, and building local talent, creates more opportunities for Emirati women to play an active role in engineering a better future for our country.
Over your lifetime, how have you seen the UAE grow and change?
Throughout my lifetime, I’ve witnessed the UAE’s remarkable transformation into a global leader in innovation and sustainability. The shift from an oil-based to knowledge-based economy and our pioneering efforts in renewable energy and sustainable urban planning are truly inspiring. I am particularly proud of the UAE’s commitment to empowering Emirati women, who now excel in roles from ambassadors to CEOs. This progress highlights our nation’s dedication to inclusivity and leadership, and it motivates me to contribute to our continued growth and success.
Lastly, what is one piece of advice you’d like to give to the younger generation of Emirati women?
To the younger generation of Emirati women, my advice is to embrace the incredible opportunities our nation offers and make a meaningful impact. Believe in your abilities and pursue your passion with determination and resilience. Our leadership has paved the way for us, demonstrating that women can excel in any field, from business to politics. Seize these opportunities, contribute to our nation’s progress, and inspire future generations. Remember, your efforts today will shape the UAE’s future, so dream big, work hard, and always strive for excellence. Your success will be a testament to our country’s vision and progress.
Maryam Al-Memari, Dolphin Energy Fellow, Research Assistant at NYU Abu Dhabi
Tell us about yourself and what you do to help create a more sustainable future for the UAE.
As a proud recipient of the MBZ scholarship, I pursued my master’s in environmental science and policy at Johns Hopkins University, building upon my environmental sciences background from Zayed University. During my studies, I developed a passion for viewing environmental and energy topics through an urban and systems lens, adopting a nexus perspective. This led me to the Kawader fellowship, an initiative supported by Tamkeen, aimed at building national capacity in the research sector.
Currently, I’m a Kawader research fellow at the Center for Interacting Urban Networks at NYU Abu Dhabi. My research sits at the intersection of urban development and marine conservation. From testing sustainable anti-fouling coatings to protect marine infrastructure and reduce pollution in urban marinas, to investigating historical trends and environmental impacts of desalination technologies in the Arabian region, my work spans diverse yet interconnected areas. I’m also exploring the social implications of recent coastal development in the GCC region and the transition towards sustainable seawalls.
Our lab is a hub of innovation, bringing together over 15 researchers with expertise ranging from remote sensing to fish ecophysiology and coral microbiology. We’re engaged in exciting initiatives, such as establishing a Gulf-wide coral monitoring project. This collaborative environment has allowed me to contribute to various research projects, including studies on biofouling, desalination technologies, remote sensing, and social sciences. I’m proud to be working alongside another Emirati research fellow, Amal Al Gergawi who has contributed to the COP28 process; she’s been my co-author on almost all the research papers. One of our recent papers examined the perspectives and prevalence of GCC female researchers in reef sciences, contributing to bridging gender gaps in the field. My ultimate goal is to reshape our approach to development, viewing humans as part of a holistic ecosystem. I envision a future where both people and nature thrive harmoniously.
What inspired you to work towards a greener, stronger future?
My journey began in primary school, coinciding with a global dialogue on environmental and climate change issues. This global conversation trickled down into our school projects, whether it was finding ways to capture CO2 or learning about the biodiversity of our islands. I vividly remember participating in a campaign to vote for Bu Tinah island as one of the world’s wonders.
As I grew older and my exposure expanded, I realized the intricate nexus between everything I cared about. The scarcity of systems thinking in addressing complex environmental challenges drew me to this interdisciplinary field. Reflecting on my journey, I can identify two common threads: a passion for giving back to my country and a deep concern for environmental and humanitarian issues. These motivations led me to pursue my bachelor’s degree in environmental science and sustainability at Zayed University, and focus on the deteriorating state of our coral reefs, setting the foundation for my current work.
Tell us one reason you feel lucky to be an Emirati woman.
I’m fortunate to be in a country that not only provides endless opportunities and support but also embodies sustainability in many ways and champions a greener future, both domestically and globally. This national commitment gives me hope and motivation to work in this sphere. During my travels, I’ve seen how a lack in vision or a stagnant country can lead to stagnation or hopelessness among its youth. Here, i’m empowered to make a difference, knowing my efforts are supported by my nation’s vision.
How have you seen the UAE grow and change over your lifetime?
We’re living in a nation that’s being built before our eyes. I’ve witnessed remarkable growth in infrastructure, evolving policies, and the direction our country is taking. I’m extremely proud of the level of discourse that the UAE is engaging in and promoting, both locally and on global platforms.
What makes me most proud is the UAE’s pioneering role in climate action and its ability to enact meaningful change. The country’s generous dedication of funds to help climate-vulnerable developing countries transition to sustainable practices is truly inspiring. Whether it’s providing reliable power grids through projects led by Masdar and Abu Dhabi development Fund, or the Mohammed bin Zayed Water Initiative to address water scarcity and find practical solutions, the UAE is making a tangible difference. Moreover, the country’s multifaceted approach to addressing climate change, including reintroduction programs for extinct species like the scimitar-horned oryx in the Sahel, alongside human development and aid programs, showcases a comprehensive understanding of global challenges. Few countries can boast such a wide-ranging and impactful approach, and that’s what makes me incredibly proud to be Emirati.
Lastly, what is one piece of advice you’d like to give to the younger generation of Emirati women?
Dream boldly and work diligently, you owe that to yourself and your country. Your path may not be clear now, but perseverance and putting the work in will reveal opportunities. I urge you to draw inspiration from Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed’s jubilee letter – reminding us to raise our aspirations and that women are partners in every step of our nation’s journey. We’re fortunate to have a supportive foundation in the UAE. Use this privilege to be the change you envision and enact it. Strive for something greater than yourself, but stay rooted in your culture and community. Your contributions, whatever form they take, are valuable. Remember, your success is our country’s success.
Hind Al Huwaid, Chief Executive Development Officer at BEEAH Group
Tell us about yourself and what you do to help create a more sustainable future for the UAE.
As the Chief Executive Development Officer at BEEAH, I support the organisation’s strategic development objectives. BEEAH is driven to shape a sustainable, smart future for all, and in my role, I align with this ambition by enabling our workforce to make long-term positive impact. It is one of my passions to help people unlock their potential and chart their path towards meaningful careers. In particular, I am focused on the development of Emirati talent, in line with the UAE’s future-forward agenda, and I am also working closely to upskill the workforce in leveraging emerging future technologies.
At BEEAH, we believe that the right talent and technology is necessary to accelerate towards sustainability targets. This is one of the reasons I recently conceptualised and developed the Future Leadership Program, which helps prepare the organisation’s next generation of leaders to leverage technology for business scenarios, develop future-ready strategies, and cultivate talent through mentorship.
I believe in leveraging our strengths collectively to raise environmental awareness and lead positive change through learning. Previously, as Chief Education Officer, I led the development of various programs and initiatives focused on raising awareness and inculcating the principles of sustainability, from grassroots level among students in schools and community members to professionals in large corporations. Positive change is already happening at the national and industrial levels, but I also believe in the importance of simultaneously incentivising positive actions at the community level. From holding competitions in schools to encourage collection and recycling of specific types of waste to engaging with university students to present their ideas for innovation in sustainability, a lot of climate-positive action starts within communities.
For high-school age student, we also developed the “Young Pioneers for Sustainability” certificate programme. The program gives them a foundation to build upon as they pursue higher studies in the sustainability field or incorporate sustainability practices in their industry of choice.
Recently, we also launched the second edition of the Future Pioneers Award, held for the second year under the patronage of Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of the American University of Sharjah. The award aims to recognise individuals, groups and organisations from around the world for their trailblazing innovations to champion sustainability. By spotlighting these innovations through the award, BEEAH hopes to help applicants scale their innovations and inspire further action in the UAE, region and beyond.
What inspired you to take on the task of working on a greener, stronger future?
While I was a student, I was deeply interested in environment and health sciences and its importance in elevating quality of life. This academic background translated into my career today where I pursue a greener future by driving action among communities, societies and industries, and empowering professionals to do the same.
Ultimately, I work to help advance societies and economies for the future, but at the same time, I believe there is a lot that we can learn from the past. The late His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the UAE, exemplified the balance of honoring our past and respecting the environment while laying the foundation for a prosperous nation.“On land and in the sea, our forefathers lived and survived in this environment. They were able to do so because they recognized the need to conserve it, to take from it only what they needed to live, and to preserve it for the succeeding generations,” he said.
His life and legacy continues to inspire me, like many Emiratis, to adopt a path towards shaping a more resilient future. His ideals about environmental stewardship and sustainability throughout has left a lasting impact on my perspective towards the future and the need to preserve it. I am encouraged to find ways to utilize the knowledge of the past generation to help find solutions for current environmental crises.
Tell us one reason you feel lucky to be an Emirati woman.
As an Emirati woman, I consider myself extremely fortunate to come from a nation that is future-oriented and dedicated towards improving the quality of life of its people, from pursuing sustainable development and a clear roadmap to shape a more environmentally friendly economy, to investing in the youth and equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to keep pace with rapid global changes.
I am proud to be a citizen of a nation which focuses equally on the welfare of the present and the future generations. The UAE’s investments in the diversification of the economy, technological advancements, and quality-of-life initiatives set a global example and gives Emiratis like me an opportunity to be an active participant in shaping a better tomorrow.
Over your lifetime, how have you seen the UAE grow and change?
The UAE has undergone huge transformation over recent decades and I’m immensely proud to have witnessed the nation’s journey towards becoming a global leader in innovation and sustainability. The leadership’s vision is at the core of this rapid, sustainability-focussed development, not just for the UAE but the world at large. COP28 UAE was a significant step in this direction, where world leaders came together and achieved consensus on the sustainable transition away from fossil fuels, reaffirming our commitment to global solutions to environmental challenges.
Equally inspiring is our commitment towards preserving our rich heritage and culture amidst modernisations. Drawing on our strong families and communities, moderate values, and deep-rooted heritage, the nation aims to build a vibrant and close-knit society, actively engaged in an evolving socioeconomic environment.
It is natural, then, that the UAE has fostered a solution-centred attitude, allowing the nation to take a collective approach to tackling some of the greatest challenges facing society today, including climate change.
Lastly, what is one piece of advice you’d like to give to the younger generation of Emirati women?
As Emirati women, we are blessed to be in a nation with visionary leadership, bringing us unparalleled opportunities to pursue our dreams. My advice to young Emirati women would be to take every opportunity you are presented with, especially when you are young. Foster your sense of curiosity and be on a constant pursuit of learning. The UAE’s vision, initiative, economy and ecosystem offer the perfect environment for any Emirati woman to unlock their potential, discover their passions and fuel their ambitions, so take advantage of it.
