In a nation where progress and diversity intertwine harmoniously, the UAE commemorated yet another remarkable Emirati Women’s Day on August 28th, which I was honored to witness. This annual occasion serves as a testament to the unwavering commitment of the country in recognizing the accomplishments and contributions of its female citizens. This year’s celebration saw a momentous panel discussion that highlighted the achievements of exceptional Emirati women, demonstrating their significant impact on the nation’s landscape.
An Inspiring Discussion at Shangri-La, Dubai
The heart of this year’s Emirati Women’s Day celebration was a captivating panel discussion hosted at the prestigious Shangri-La, Dubai, from 2 to 4PM. Hundreds of women gathered in Al Bader Ballroom to commemorate the accomplishments of women who have charted new horizons in various fields. The event was co-hosted by none other than Lara Tabet, Dubai’s most influential TV presenter, Realtor, and Luxury Brand Ambassador, along with Dr. Sheen Gurrib FRSA, an advocate for women in STEM and a prominent business coach for women in leadership.
Trailblazers in Focus: The Esteemed Speakers
The event shone the spotlight on three incredible female speakers whose journeys have reshaped the narrative of Emirati women’s achievements:
• Dr. Eng. Suaad Alshamsi: A trailblazer in the aviation industry, Dr. Alshamsi earned the distinction of being the first female aircraft engineer and technical advisor in the UAE. Armed with a remarkable educational background including an MBA in aviation management from Coventry University and a Doctorate in aviation management, she embarked on a journey that led her through leading aviation companies. Her work with Emirates Airlines and her role as a senior manager and technical advisor for the monumental Midfield Terminal Project at Abu Dhabi’s new airport stand as a testament to her dedication and expertise.
• Dr. Maya AlHawary: A pioneer in the realm of smart leadership and emotional intelligence, Dr. AlHawary holds the honor of being the first female Arab Emirati PhD holder in this field. With over 12 years of experience in driving cross-functional teams and overseeing multi-million dollar programs, she embodies leadership, innovation, and dedication. Her passion for international relations and commitment to public improvement underscore her contributions to the UAE’s growth.
• Reem AlMosabbah: The youngest female Emirati tech entrepreneur and a beacon of inspiration, Reem Al Musabbah has transformed the IT landscape in the UAE. As the founder of Retech, a Tech Firm, and a driving force behind Unipreneur Inc., an engagement and development platform for aspiring entrepreneurs, she exemplifies the spirit of innovation and leadership. Reem’s recognition on global platforms including Entrepreneur Middle East, TechStars, and Dubai Chamber stands as a testament to her fearless pursuit of excellence.
Shaping Dubai’s Landscape: Women of Fearlessness and Intelligence
I’m inspired to see these three outstanding Emirati women, with their pioneering achievements and dedication, that have woven a tapestry of progress that has reshaped Dubai’s landscape. Their contributions, spanning diverse industries, stand as a testament to the UAE’s commitment to fostering an inclusive society driven by women’s empowerment. As they continue to break barriers, they inspire generations, proving that the journey to success knows no limits when powered by determination and resilience.
Event photos are both from Lara Tabet & Shangri-la Dubai’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/shangrila_dubai/




