Dubai: The UAE has achieved top positions globally in treating women with respect, and in reducing the gender gap b in the Middle East and North Africa, said Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) at the First Emirati Women’s Forum held yesterday (Monday) before honouring the first Emirati women pioneers for their contribution.
Al Tayer said these ranks were achieved through the country’s approach in enhancing women’s status and ensuring their presence in all fields of work since the start, he said.
The forum held by Dewa’s Women’s Committee to celebrate Emirati Women’s Day and recognise Emirati women’s achievements in serving the nation became a platform for women leaders in the UAE to speak about their journey as they joined the workforce and the steps they had to take to reach certain positions
“The UAE’s efforts to empower women and the post-empowerment phase have become a global model for not only for the achievements Emirati women have made in all areas, but also because the role that women play in Emirati society is always evolving. Emirati women have proved their competence in all fields, to work hand in hand alongside men to build the nation and take it to the highest levels,” Al Tayer Said.
Al Tayer emphasised the role women play in social and economic development and how providing a motivating and empowering environment for them is key to economic growth, diversity and competitiveness.
Colonel Fatima Ali Al Sawaiya, from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs, was among the women who took to the stage to brief the Emirati women who attended about the challenges she faced as the first woman to join a management job in the Armed Forces.
“I was the first woman in the many positions I occupied throughout my career. It wasn’t easy being the only woman among many men, but I was able to overcome many obstacles with the support of my family and colleagues. Based on my experience, I think dedication and perseverance is what kept me moving forward,” she said.
Reflecting on her achievements and experience as a successful Emirati woman, Mariam Mattar, Founder and Chairperson of the UAE Genetic Disease Association, said Emirati women must take advantage of the resources and empowering environment that their country has made available to them.
“Get your motivation from the people surrounding you and have the courage to take steps towards success.”
Expressing her commitment towards giving back to her society and environment, Habiba Al Marashi, Chairperson at Emirates Environmental Group, said her family played a huge role in inspiring her to do social work.
“Participation gives value to human beings and a person is lucky to have a certain position within his or her community. When you hold a social position it allows you to make a real change in the field you work in. Women have many capabilities in the positions they handle and all these capabilities are a result of inspiration,” she said.
