The UAE is known for its commitment towards championing women in leadership roles. And as a member of the Federal National Council, Meera Sultan Naser Alsuwaidi is one of the country’s most influential women. Balancing her public duty with being a mother, Meera has carved a path that not only inspires the community around her but also brings her a sense of true fulfilment. 

Her life today was shaped by her upbringing. “Growing up, I was always drawn to public service, but I didn’t fully envision this path until later,” she shares openly. “My passion for contributing to the UAE evolved naturally, through my studies, work in investment and policy, and, most importantly, through witnessing the leadership of our nation. It was less about planning and more about answering a calling.”

It was precisely this calling that led her to serve her country in various capacities. From policy-making to global diplomacy, Meera is guided by her loyalty to the UAE’s mission. For her, leadership is not a title. Instead, it’s a responsibility that must be carried with humility. 

“It’s a profound privilege,” she says. “Representing the UAE means carrying forward the values of our founding fathers, the vision of our leadership, and the aspirations of our people. It’s about showing the world who we are, a nation rooted in heritage, yet bold in its ambition.”

Indeed, Meera’s work has taken her from international trips to strategy-making tables, but she remains grounded. As a proud Emirati, a mother, and a woman, her multiple roles in life coexist. “Like every working mother, I navigate the balance one day at a time, ”she reflects. “I’ve learned to be present, whether in the boardroom or at a Jiu-Jitsu competition, or in school events. My daughters give me perspective, strength, and the deepest motivation to lead with purpose.”

Her approach to motherhood is as measured as her approach to leadership. In both scopes, she seeks to nurture confidence, which is also a quality she hopes to inspire in her daughters. 

“I hope they carry kindness, courage, and a sense of responsibility, that they never feel limited by the expectations of others, but rather inspired by their sense of purpose,” she says. “And that they know I always want them to be healthy, happy and safe.”

Reflecting on her journey and the milestones she has accomplished, Meera says she is proud of her achievements. “Professionally, being entrusted to serve my country in both government and investment roles has been incredibly meaningful,” she says. 

“Personally, raising strong, curious daughters and seeing them develop their own voices is my proudest achievement,” she adds. “Those are the moments that stay with you.”

Meera’s national pride is especially poignant as the country celebrates Emirati Women’s Day on August 28. This year’s theme is Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years, under the directive of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Al Ketbi, Mother of the Nation. It centres on community, a word that resonates deeply with Meera. “To be Emirati is to belong to a community that values loyalty, ambition, and unity,” she says. “As a woman in leadership, I carry the legacy of Emirati women who paved the way before me, and I strive to create space for those who come next. Community means lifting as we rise.”

Meera is part of a generation of Emirati women who are not only achieving individual success, but also shifting perceptions about women’s roles in society. “I want the world to see our balance – our deep respect for tradition and our fearless embrace of innovation,” she says. “I’m proud to showcase our commitment to progress in sustainability, women’s empowerment, diplomacy, and investment. We are young as a nation, but bold in vision.”

Bridging past and future, Meera’s message is clear, whether she is representing the UAE at a policy summit or meeting with global leaders. “The UAE is a country that is both deeply rooted and fearlessly forward-facing. We are a nation that remembers its past while writing its future,” she notes. “It’s
a balance not many countries manage with such clarity, and I believe it’s one of our greatest strengths.”

A powerhouse within society, it is fair to say the politician and mother has an innate sense of clarity. However, sharpening her focus are the people and values she surrounds herself with. In fact, Meera often speaks about the importance of support. “I stay grounded by remembering why I started,” she explains. “Serving something greater than oneself, whether it’s your country, your family, or your values, keeps you focused. I also surround myself with people who challenge me, support me, and remind me of what truly matters.”

Her sense of groundedness also comes from prioritising her personal life. Meera is intentional with her most powerful resource, time. “Time with my daughters is my sanctuary,” she shares. “Simple moments, school drop-off, laughter at home, they fill me with energy. I also find peace in working out, travelling, reading, and quiet reflection.” 

“These pauses help me return to my work with clarity and renewed purpose,” she continues. Of course, this sense of balance has been achieved by being true to herself, something she wishes to share with the younger generation. 

“Trust the process,” Meera shares. “Not every step will make sense in the moment, but it’s building something bigger. And always protect your values, they’ll keep you steady, even when the path gets challenging.”

These words of wisdom remind us all that leadership is not about having all the answers. Instead, it’s about staying rooted to your purpose and valuing personal integrity at all costs. It’s in this ability to remain steady that Meera thrives as part of a bigger narrative, one that is being written by the inspirational Emirati women of today. This modern community of women, whether politicians, entrepreneurs or mothers, are shaping the country. 

Meera’s story stands out, not just because of her achievements, but because of her authenticity. Leading with empathy, she is able to uplift those around her. In every role she holds, from national advisor to mother, Meera is determined to build a strong future. 

As the UAE continues to evolve, there is no denying that her voice is crucial to the country’s future. But perhaps her greatest legacy will be found in the lives she’s touched, whether it’s the people she inspires in meetings or her beautiful daughters who are growing up under her compassionate guidance. Meera Sultan Naser Alsuwaidi is shaping tomorrow with grace.

Photographer: Amer Mohamed
Creative Producer: Beya Bou-Harb
Stylist: Sarah Ruxton
Makeup: Karolina Kurowicka
Hair: Safiyah Cassim
Light Assistant: Yasir Ali Shah

Cover image credits: Meera Sultan Naser Alsuwaidi’s jewellery comprises Bee de Chaumet rings in yellow, white and rose gold, set with brilliant-cut diamonds, the Bee de Chaumet Pompon pendant and earrings in yellow gold, set with brilliant-cut diamonds and the Chaumet Hortensia watch in rose gold, bezel set with brilliant-cut diamonds, all by Chaumet. Her daughters wear the Bee de Chaumet pendants in yellow gold, set with brilliant-cut diamonds, by Chaumet. Meera wears an abaya By Meriam Abdulaziz; her children wear jumpsuits by Loro Piana.