When Sahar Al Rasti became the UAE’s first female ship captain, it was more than a personal achievement. It helped highlight the need for a significant and overdue shift in the maritime industry, at both regional and global levels.
In a field historically dominated by men, even today, women represent just 1.2 per cent of the global seafarer workforce, according to the BIMCO/ICS 2021 Seafarer Workforce Report. In the UAE, however, that number is slowly growing, thanks to increased support and acceptance of women in roles that were previously reserved only for men.
Captain Sahar’s journey, however, began long before she knew of these statistics. “My passion for the sea was ignited by my father, who worked in Al-Mina, where the port offices for trading companies were located,” she recalls. Her childhood visits to her father’s workplace allowed her to “witness the bustling port, the majestic ships, and the endless sea, which deeply inspired me.” Determined to follow in his footsteps, Sahar embarked on a path that would see her become a ship captain despite facing gender-based rejection early on. “This rejection fuelled my determination and bravery, ultimately leading me to achieve this milestone,” she shares.
In 2015, Captain Sahar began working as an administration assistant at Abu Dhabi Ports before enrolling in a development programme for UAE nationals. The course provided her with first-hand experience in various roles at the port as part of a job rotation programme.
Her passion for the sea grew further and, after convincing her superiors to let her join the navigation services department, she was on her way to achieving her childhood dreams. In 2016, when Abu Dhabi Ports launched an academy for captains, she became the first woman to enrol, graduating two years later in 2018 with the first-ever batch of students.
She became the first female Emirati ship captain in the Abu Dhabi Maritime Services Company (Sven), a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Ports, and went on to sail for more than 1,300 hours within just six months of being qualified. This led to her completing Levels 1 and 2 of an international law course on maritime aid and manoeuvres, another first for a woman from the UAE. “It is a profound honour and responsibility. It symbolises breaking stereotypes and pushing boundaries for Emirati women,” Captain Sahar says of her achievements. “It also signifies the UAE’s progressive vision and commitment to gender equality. This achievement is not just personal – it reflects the opportunities our country provides and the importance of empowering women to contribute to our nation’s growth.”
Since qualifying, Captain Sahar has taken her role as a trailblazer seriously, using her position to inspire other women to achieve their goals. She regularly holds talks and sessions at schools and institutions, encouraging young women to pursue their dreams, no matter how daunting they may seem. “I am committed to supporting and mentoring young Emirati women, helping them navigate their paths to success,” she says. “I am dedicated to visiting schools and educational institutions to inspire and teach young girls about the maritime industry, fostering the next generation of female leaders in this field.”
While sailing remains her lifelong passion, Captain Sahar has also ventured into the corporate world as the founder and CEO of SJR Group, a maritime services business comprising five subsidiaries. “I aspire to further contribute to the maritime industry by promoting sustainable practices and innovations. I also aim to expand my influence by becoming a yacht and superyacht broker, bridging the gap between luxury and sustainability,” she adds.
Balancing numerous responsibilities in her chosen career is a challenging feat. “It’s not always easy navigating a male-dominated industry, which poses its own set of challenges,” she admits, “but it also motivates me to push harder and make a meaningful impact.”
Her perseverance and resilience serve as a testament to her belief in setting life goals. “Pursue your dreams with passion and determination, and do not be afraid to break barriers. Seek out mentors, stay curious, and never stop learning. Remember that your journey is unique, and every step you take brings you closer to your goals.”
In the future, Captain Sahar is also focusing on sustainability with the upcoming launch of new content on tourism and sustainable practices. She aims to bring innovation and sustainability to the forefront of the industry, particularly in yacht brokerage. “When I became a captain, it inspired many women in the UAE,” she says. “I strive to continue being a source of inspiration by sharing my experiences and encouraging more women to join the maritime industry.”
