Breaking barriers: Meet Dubai Police’s first female brigadier in 69 years

Dubai Police has made history with the promotion of Colonel Samira Abdullah Al Ali to the rank of brigadier—the first woman ever to achieve this milestone since the force was founded in 1956.

The promotion, announced as part of a wider round of appointments, was issued under the directive of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

“This honour is a proud moment for every woman in Dubai Police,” said Brigadier Al Ali, dedicating the achievement to the country’s leadership and their unwavering support for women in uniform.

With over 31 years of service, Brigadier Al Ali currently heads the Insurance Department at Dubai Police—a unit she helped build from scratch into a benchmark for police agencies across the region.

She is also the first woman to lead an all-male team in the General Department of Transport and Rescue.

Brigadier Al Ali began her career in 1994, joining Dubai Police after earning a degree in insurance from UAE University. She initially worked in a small office with just two staff members but soon transformed the unit into a full-fledged department.

She also became the first woman to serve in the General Department of Transport and Rescue, leading what had been an all-male team.

Under her leadership, Dubai Police’s Insurance Department introduced several firsts, including:

Her efforts led to the force securing its first long-term (five-year) insurance contract and saving costs through data-driven policy reviews.

Her contributions have earned her a string of accolades:

Brigadier Al Ali is also an active mentor, certified trainer, and member of multiple national committees. She has delivered workshops to over 21,000 beneficiaries, submitted 225 proposals, and participated in more than 60 task forces. She also serves on national committees and mentors women in uniform.

Brigadier Al Ali holds an MBA and an IT diploma and is a certified trainer in areas including insurance and economic crimes.

A mother of one, Brigadier Al Ali credits her success to family support and the values instilled by Dubai Police.

“Discipline and commitment helped me balance my career and family life. I always tell my team to believe in themselves—everything is possible with faith and effort.”

Her promotion marks a new chapter in the force’s ongoing efforts to empower women and foster leadership at all levels.