Emirati Women’s Day 2025: Celebrating Strength, Wellness & Progress

Today, we come together to celebrate Emirati Women’s Day, proudly honored under the theme:

“Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years.”

This milestone marks the 50th anniversary of the General Women’s Union, founded in 1975 by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the honoured Mother of the Nation. Her enduring words remind us that Emirati women are the “heartbeat of society and a pillar of prosperity”, a powerful truth as we honour women's progress across fitness, health, sport, and beyond.

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Breaking Barriers in Sport & Fitness

Emirati women continue to lead and redefine limits across diverse arenas of wellness and athleticism:

• Dr. Lamees Abu Hlaiqa – A mother of three and public health expert, Dr. Lamees found running as therapy. Her journey, from struggling with a single kilometer to completing marathons and competing in aquathons, proves that it's never too late to rediscover your strength.

• Aisha Al-Awadhi – A rising padel champion, Aisha balances professional life with athletic ambition, leading the charge for Emirati women in this dynamic racket sport.

• Abeer Al Khaja (Abeer MK) – As a CrossFit coach, personal trainer, endurance athlete, and fitness influencer (@abeermk), Abeer embodies determination, from marathons and paddleboarding to weightlifting and community-building through @womenplaysports. Her empowering mantra: “Every small accomplishment motivates us to continue and become better.”

• Fatima Al Ameri – Dubbed the “Emirates’ Equestrian,” Fatima captured the nation’s attention when she saluted President Sheikh Mohamed while standing on horseback during National Day. She overcame early adversity, including bullying in her training, and has since become a pioneer in camel racing and equestrian sport. AETOSWire

• Fatima Al Harthi – A celebrated endurance rider, Fatima has completed grueling 120 km races and earned recognition as a “Trailblazer” for her grit and unwavering belief. Gulf News

• Captain Halima Al Saadi – Dubai’s first female mounted police officer, Captain Halima serves with distinction in both administrative roles and horseback patrols, blending public safety with breaking gender barriers. Gulf News

• Nora Al Jassasi – One of the UAE’s trailblazing female rally drivers, Nora transitioned from equestrian roots to blazing trailblazing tracks behind the wheel. She competes in demanding events like the Dubai International Baja, Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge, Rally Jameel, UAE Sprint Championship, Saudi Baja, and Qatar Off-Road Championship. Her machine of choice: the powerful Can-Am Maverick X3. Inspired by the Dakar Rally, she now urges Emirati girls to “Get involved. Don’t judge yourself… Just enjoy yourself.” DubiCars

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This year’s theme, “Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years,” symbolizes shared progress driven by partnership - between leaders and communities, pioneers and the next generation.

From fitness influencers and endurance runners to equestrians, rally drivers, and mounted officers, Emirati women are proving that wellness, resilience, and leadership are deeply interconnected - and foundational to nation-building.

These extraordinary women remind us that strength is multifaceted, mental, physical, emotional, and communal. Their stories affirm that wellness empowers leadership, and empowered women shape the future.

On this Emirati Women’s Day, we honor their journeys, celebrate their successes, and recommit to a future where every woman can thrive - body, mind, and spirit.

Happy Emirati Women’s Day 2025.