Every year on 28 August, the UAE comes together to honour the remarkable contributions of women to the nation’s growth and development. Emirati Women’s Day is not just a date on the calendar; it’s a movement that celebrates resilience, ambition, and progress. In 2025, the occasion carries even greater significance as it marks the 50th anniversary of the General Women’s Union (GWU), established in 1975 under the guidance of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the “Mother of the Nation”.
The official theme for 2025—“Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years”—is both a celebration of achievements and a call to continue working together towards a more inclusive and empowered society.
A Golden Jubilee for the General Women’s Union
The General Women’s Union has been a driving force behind advancements in education, healthcare, legal rights, and leadership opportunities for women across the UAE. Since its formation, it has created platforms that nurture talent, support women’s aspirations, and ensure equal participation in nation-building.
Reaching its 50-year milestone in 2025 is more than an anniversary; it’s a testament to five decades of progress made possible by unity, vision, and perseverance. This year’s theme, “Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years”, reflects that spirit, encouraging all members of society, men and women alike, to contribute to the UAE’s continued growth.
The Connection to the Year of Community
In January 2025, the UAE declared 2025 as the Year of Community under the slogan “Hand in Hand,” reinforcing national values of solidarity, cooperation, and shared responsibility. Aligning Emirati Women’s Day with this broader theme was a deliberate choice, symbolising that women’s empowerment is not a standalone effort—it thrives when embedded in a supportive community.
This shared vision highlights the role of women as equal partners in shaping the UAE’s present and future, emphasising collaboration over competition and inclusion over isolation.
Honouring the Leadership of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak
Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak has been the architect of women’s advancement in the UAE. As Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, she has consistently championed initiatives that uplift women and enable them to thrive in all aspects of life.
Under her leadership, the UAE has built a legal and social environment where women’s rights are protected, leadership opportunities are expanded, and achievements are celebrated on both local and international platforms.
Celebrations Across the UAE
This year, Emirati Women’s Day will see a wide array of activities:
- Cultural exhibitions showcasing women’s contributions to arts, literature, and heritage.
- Panel discussions featuring female leaders in business, science, and technology.
- Awards and recognition ceremonies to honour women excelling in their fields.
- Community gatherings designed to inspire the next generation of Emirati women.
In Abu Dhabi, these celebrations are expected to align closely with other events under the Year of Community theme, creating a unified message of solidarity and shared achievement. For more on the capital’s planned activities, readers can follow the latest Abu Dhabi news for updates on exhibitions, forums, and initiatives related to Emirati Women’s Day.
Why This Theme Matters in 2025
The 2025 theme is not just symbolic; it is timely and necessary. The world is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and the UAE recognises that progress requires the participation of all its citizens. By reinforcing the “Hand in Hand” concept, the country is sending a powerful message: women are central to national success, and their empowerment benefits everyone.
The anniversary offers a chance to reflect on the UAE’s journey in women’s rights—from early educational reforms to today’s thriving community of female entrepreneurs, ministers, scientists, and cultural leaders.
Five Key Pillars of the 2025 Theme
- Unity – Women’s empowerment is a collective responsibility, achieved through collaboration between genders and generations.
- Heritage – Celebrating the cultural identity and traditions that have shaped Emirati women’s roles over time.
- Progress – Recognising achievements in leadership, education, and innovation.
- Inclusivity – Ensuring opportunities for all women, including those in remote areas and specialised industries.
- Sustainability – Building systems and support networks that ensure empowerment continues beyond 2025.
Looking Back: Five Decades of Change
In the past 50 years, Emirati women have gone from having limited access to formal education to occupying leadership roles in government, diplomacy, and global organisations. Female representation in the UAE Cabinet is now one of the highest in the world. Women serve as ministers, ambassadors, CEOs, engineers, scientists, and educators, shaping policy and driving innovation.
In fields such as renewable energy, space exploration, and AI development, Emirati women are not just participants; they are leaders, proving that investment in women yields transformative national results.
Inspiring the Next Generation
While it’s important to reflect on past achievements, the theme “Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years” also serves as an invitation for the next generation of Emirati girls to dream bigger. By seeing role models in every sector, young women are encouraged to pursue careers in science, politics, the arts, and entrepreneurship.
Educational programmes, mentorship schemes, and leadership initiatives launched in honour of the day are designed to ensure that today’s celebrations translate into tomorrow’s opportunities.
A National Legacy of Empowerment
The UAE’s progress in women’s empowerment is recognised globally, but what makes it unique is the combination of visionary leadership, community involvement, and cultural pride. The General Women’s Union stands as a symbol of this legacy, and its 50th anniversary reminds us that sustainable progress requires continuous effort.
By choosing “Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years” as the 2025 theme, the UAE underscores that women’s achievements are not just milestones; they are the building blocks of the nation’s future.
Conclusion: Hand in Hand, Towards the Future
Emirati Women’s Day 2025 is more than an anniversary—it’s a national affirmation that progress is a shared journey. As the UAE celebrates 50 years of the General Women’s Union, it does so with gratitude for the women who paved the way, pride in the women shaping the present, and hope for the women who will define the future.
By walking hand in hand across generations, genders, and communities, the nation continues its journey toward unity, equality, and prosperity. In 2025, this golden jubilee is not just about looking back; it’s about stepping forward together.
