Dubai: The UAE Journalists Association (UJA) marked Emirati Women’s Day with the launch of a new book titled The Journey of Emirati Women: Between Vision, Challenges, Achievements and Lessons Learned, documenting the experiences and achievements of 139 Emirati women whose contributions have left a lasting mark on the UAE’s development and nation-building journey.

The 379-page publication was unveiled during a national celebration held at the association’s headquarters in Dubai, attended by Her Highness Sheikha Dr. Afra bint Hasher Al Maktoum, Her Highness Sheikha Wafa bint Humaid Al Maalla, and Fadila Al Muaini, Chairwoman of the Board of the UAE Journalists Association, alongside a large gathering of inspiring Emirati women, journalists, media professionals, strategic partners and supporters.

The publication forms part of efforts to celebrate the journey of Emirati women, highlight inspiring role models and document their contributions across diverse fields. The stories featured in the book portray individual achievements as part of the broader story of the UAE, offering inspiration to future generations and opening new horizons for the future.

Sheikha Dr. Afra bint Hasher Al Maktoum praised the publication, describing it as an important contribution to preserving the national memory and documenting the experiences and struggles of Emirati women.

She said the stories contained in the book represent chapters of the UAE’s own story and provide inspiring examples for future generations. The journey of Emirati women, she noted, has extended across generations, during which women preserved values and contributed to the development of society. Their opportunities expanded significantly following the establishment of the Union, supported by the leadership’s vision and the pivotal role of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, “Mother of the Emirates.”

Sheikha Dr. Afra added that Emirati women have become essential and active partners in the country’s sustainable development journey.

She also noted that this year’s celebration of Emirati Women’s Day coincides with the Year of the Family, highlighting the central role women play in building strong communities. She said the theme, “We Will Emerge Stronger and Better,” reflects the determination to pursue excellence and continue achieving progress.

“Women are an integral part of the story of the nation, its present and its future, and a bright page in its history,” she said.

Sheikha Dr. Afra commended the UAE Journalists Association and its partners and sponsors for organizing the event, as well as the association’s efforts to support initiatives that document national achievements and strengthen the presence of Emirati women.

Media as a Partner in Documenting Women’s Achievements
In her remarks, Fadila Al Muaini, Chairwoman of the Board of the UAE Journalists Association, described the journey of Emirati women as an exceptional success story that began with the establishment of the UAE and was strengthened by the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the continued support of the country’s leadership.

“We deeply appreciate the historic and pioneering role of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, ‘Mother of the Emirates,’ who has been and continues to be the principal symbol and inspiration for empowering Emirati women and enabling them to reach positions of leadership and decision-making,” Al Muaini said.

She emphasized the association’s belief that the media is a key partner in documenting the UAE’s national journey, highlighting inspiring female role models and sharing their success stories with the world.

Emirati women, she said, have become leaders and creators of the media narrative, while the ambitions of both the UAE and Emirati women are “limitless.”

“Our celebration today is not merely a moment to celebrate what has been achieved, but a launchpad toward new horizons of achievement and hope,” Al Muaini said.

She described The Journey of Emirati Women as more than a collection of documented biographies and experiences, calling it “a story of a nation told through its women” and stressing the importance of the media’s continued role in preserving national memory and presenting stories worthy of being passed on to future generations.

International Recognition
Khaled Bekdash, President of the International Organization for Media and Journalism in the Netherlands, also praised the achievements of Emirati women and their leadership across various fields.

He highlighted the role of Emirati women journalists in conveying a positive image of their country and promoting values of tolerance and credibility.

Bekdash expressed the organization’s appreciation for Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak’s exceptional efforts and inspiring support, which he said have contributed significantly to empowering Emirati women and enabling them to reach senior positions nationally and internationally.

He also thanked the UAE Journalists Association for organizing the celebration and for its outstanding support of media professionals.

The Consulate of Canada in Dubai and the Northern Emirates participated in the event through a recorded video presentation featuring Fred Ayoub, Canadian Consul for Economic, Political and Public Affairs in Dubai and the Northern Emirates.

Ayoub congratulated the UAE leadership and the country on the achievements of Emirati women across various sectors. He noted that Canada and the UAE share a comprehensive vision for women’s empowerment, highlighting the commitment of Royal Roads University and its Ras Al Khaimah branch to developing the next generation of female leaders.

Dr. Philip Steenkamp, President of Royal Roads University – Ras Al Khaimah, also delivered remarks through a recorded presentation, expressing appreciation for Emirati women and their inspiring contributions.

He praised the UAE’s national success stories and the country’s leadership for believing in women’s capabilities and creating opportunities for them in education, employment, leadership and innovation.

Book Signing and Honours
During the celebration, Sheikha Dr. Afra bint Hasher Al Maktoum signed copies of The Journey of Emirati Women: Between Vision, Challenges, Achievements and Lessons Learned and presented commemorative gifts to female attendees in recognition of their participation in the national occasion and their contributions to the UAE.

The 379-page book features the success stories and experiences of 139 Emirati women who have made significant contributions to the country’s development. The publication was presented as a gift from Sheikha Dr. Afra bint Hasher Al Maktoum in appreciation of Emirati women and their inspiring achievements.

The book was prepared by Dr. Walaa Mohammed and launched by the UAE Journalists Association in partnership with Driven magazine, in an initiative reflecting a spirit of collaboration and reinforcing the media’s role in documenting and promoting inspiring stories of Emirati women.

The ceremony concluded with the honoring of Sheikha Dr. Afra bint Hasher Al Maktoum and Sheikha Wafa bint Humaid Al Maalla, as well as contributors who participated in preparing the publication, in recognition of their efforts and contributions to the UAE’s journey.

The event concluded with commemorative photographs documenting the national occasion and the UAE Journalists Association’s celebration of Emirati women — a journey spanning the country’s foundation, leadership and achievement, and extending toward shaping its future.