In an era marked by transformative social initiatives, the launch of “رؤية أم الإمارات 50:50” signifies a pivotal step towards empowering Emirati women and enhancing their leadership roles over the next fifty years. This comprehensive vision aims to create a future that not only recognizes women’s contributions but also actively expands their involvement in all spheres of life, thereby positioning them as central figures in national and global development.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, praised the significant achievements of the UAE Gender Equality Council over the past fifty years. Under the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the Council, they emphasized that “رؤية أم الإمارات 50:50” lays the groundwork for a brighter future and opens new doors for Emirati women to contribute both locally and globally.
On the occasion of Emirati Women’s Day, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed stated, “We celebrate the achievements of women in the UAE and the notable contributions they continue to make to our nation. We appreciate their pivotal role in development, education, and nurturing strong families. Their dedication and commitment represent a source of strength and inspiration as we move forward under the ‘رؤية أم الإمارات 50:50’.” This national framework aims to foster a better future for all Emiratis.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum remarked, “On this Emirati Women’s Day, we not only celebrate the past fifty years of women’s empowerment but also introduce a new vision for the next fifty years. We honor women as mothers, sisters, daughters, and partners in our developmental journey.” He underscored their vital role as change-makers and the spirit of the nation.
Launching a Unified Celebration of Progress
Inspired by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the official slogan “يداً بيد نحتفي بالخمسين” (Hand in Hand We Celebrate Fifty) was introduced for “Emirati Women’s Day 2025,” coinciding with the anniversary of the UAE Gender Equality Council. This celebration embodies community partnership and acknowledges the ongoing accomplishments of Emirati women. In line with Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed’s declaration, 2025 will be designated as the Year of Community, reinforcing the national spirit and elevating women’s status as key partners in national advancement.
The “رؤية أم الإمارات 50:50” stands as a testament to the visionary thinking of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak in empowering Emirati women to be major contributors to the developmental journey of the UAE and beyond. This initiative reflects the UAE’s ambition to position women as global role models in influence and inspiration, encompassing a call for innovation and partnership to ensure their integral presence in shaping a sustainable future.
Foundational Elements of Empowerment
At the core of “رؤية أم الإمارات 50:50” are three fundamental components: family and national identity, governance and strategies, and international development partnerships. This vision represents a renewed national commitment to empower Emirati women, establishing them as inspirational figures for women worldwide, backed by over fifty years of pioneering contributions led by Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak. The initiative seeks to secure the UAE’s position among the top countries in enhancing women’s quality of life and creating benchmarks in gender empowerment across different sectors.
The national vision explicitly aims to provide a secure and dignified life for women of all ages and to launch specialized support programs for women with disabilities and senior citizens. It seeks to employ predictive analytics to improve quality of life, alongside establishing a national governance system that integrates strategies across government entities to ensure sustainable empowerment. By promoting equality in education, labor, and the economy, the vision paves the way for balancing professional roles and familial responsibilities.
A Global Leader in Women’s Empowerment
“رؤية أم الإمارات 50:50” aspires for the UAE to become a global exemplar in empowering women across various sectors, through the establishment of national sector labs that act as agile accelerators to address challenges, particularly in critical areas such as technology, artificial intelligence, climate, and energy. Educational efforts will be directed towards future-oriented disciplines for girls. Furthermore, this initiative will bolster the international presence of Emirati women in decision-making roles and enhance their participation in international negotiations and forums.
The ultimate goal is to cement the UAE’s standing among the best governments in shaping women’s futures through pioneering women’s policies, active participation in global women’s agendas, and establishing quality international partnerships that support gender empowerment worldwide. Additionally, the strategy includes promoting Emirati women’s achievements through prestigious international awards dedicated to their contributions.
A Legacy of Commitment and Leadership
Since its inception, the UAE Gender Equality Council has been an inspiring symbol of the UAE’s commitment to women’s empowerment, spanning five decades under the leadership of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak. Driven by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s belief that the strength of the nation lies in the empowerment of all its members, the UAE continues on this path of wisdom. The UAE has consistently outperformed international benchmarks regarding women’s empowerment, solidifying its role as a global model.
Throughout different phases of development, from its establishment in 1975 to today, the council has spearheaded initiatives aimed at enhancing women’s roles and ensuring their integration into all facets of societal life. By prioritizing education for women and girls, the UAE has transformed the landscape, reducing female illiteracy drastically and achieving high enrollment rates in higher education for women.
As the UAE strides confidently towards the centenary celebrations in 2071, the “رؤية أم الإمارات 50:50” embodies a commitment to the holistic empowerment of women, ensuring their roles as vital contributors to national and global development. It stands not merely as a local initiative but as a global call to action for women everywhere, to step up and redefine roles in the ever-evolving landscape of the modern world.
Noura Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General of the UAE Gender Equality Council, expressed pride in the council’s achievements over the past fifty years. She stated, “This celebration reflects the spirit of national unity that prevails in our society. Her Highness’s directives have always been an impetus for us to enhance the status of Emirati women, aligning with the ambitious national vision aimed at improving quality of life and opportunities for women at all stages of their lives.” This ongoing commitment assures that Emirati women will remain central to the nation’s growth and development.