As we celebrate Eid Al Etihad, it’s only right to reflect on the Emirati women who have defied the ordinary, shaping the country through their impact and accomplishments. They stand as true partners in its success and growth, supported by a government and society that empowers them to achieve even more.
From sports to space exploration, these women are redefining norms, reshaping the rules, and inspiring generations to come.
She is the first Emirati and Arab woman astronaut, a history-making moment for women in the UAE and the region. Nora’s childhood dream was to become an astronaut. Through dedication and hard work, she was selected from around 4,000 candidates to be trained with NASA for future space exploration missions. She holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and trained at Vaasa University of Applied Sciences in Finland.
As one of the nation’s leading female riders, she made history by becoming the first Emirati woman to represent the United Arab Emirates at the Olympics in 2008. Beyond that, she is a regional champion who has proudly elevated her country’s name in competitions across the region.
Huda Al Matroushi broke every stereotype in the industry, turning her passion into a profession. She became the first Emirati female mechanic and garage owner, a field long dominated by men across the Arab world. Her message is simple: anything is possible, anything is achievable — no limits, no boundaries.
In 2010, Elham Al Qasimi embarked on a truly unique adventure, setting her sights on the North Pole. With determination and an unshakeable spirit, she set out to become the first Emirati woman — and the first Arab woman — to reach the North Pole. An incredible achievement for all Emirati women.
Elham paved the way for a new generation of women who are shaping the world of sport and breaking new records in adventure and exploration.
In an industry dominated by men, Sahar Al Rasti made the impossible possible by becoming the first Emirati ship captain. Setting an example for Emirati women that nothing you set your eyes on is impossible, she started as an administration assistant at Abu Dhabi Ports. Then in 2016, when Abu Dhabi Ports launched an academy for captains, she became the first woman to enrol. Two years later, she became the first female Emirati ship captain in the Abu Dhabi Maritime Services Company (Sven).
As we celebrate Emirati women who are shaping the country across diverse fields, Danah Al Ali stands as another remarkable example. An Emirati woman who fell in love with adventure sports, she made history as the first Emirati woman to achieve an extraordinary feat — summiting both Mount Everest and the neighbouring Lhotse within just 24 hours in 2013, proudly raising the UAE flag at their peaks.
Nadia Al Najjar has left a lasting mark on the world of literature. The Dubai author and novelist has written acclaimed novels and short-story collections for both adults and children, becoming an award-winning writer whose books have even been included in the Grade Four curriculum.
Nadia won the award for Best Emirati Book by an Emirati Creative Writer at the Sharjah International Book Fair in 2017 for her novel Trio D.
Armed with a fearless heart and boundless ambition, Amna Al Qubaisi has set new heights for Emirati women, this time behind the wheel. Breaking boundaries with her passion for racing, she became the first Emirati female racing driver. With her remarkable skills and determination, Amna has earned international recognition and secured her place in a male-dominated sport.
With unwavering dedication and commitment, Dr. Hawaa Al Mansoori went from being the first Emirati woman to be awarded a UAE Presidential Scholarship to study medicine in the United States to the first non-American woman to graduate from The George Washington University, and then to the inventor of the Sonostick – a device designed to help improve the accuracy of catheter insertion. A remarkable journey marked by innovation, dedication, and achievements that know no bounds.
Following her participation in several international weightlifting competitions, Amna Al Haddad became the first Emirati woman to compete in the Reebok CrossFit Games Open in 2012. She then made history as the first Emirati and the first GCC national to compete in the Asia Regionals. Her journey in sports is not just a personal achievement but a source of inspiration for all Emirati women. Now, she is an inspirational speaker, sharing her stories with women looking up to her incredible achievements.
The first Emirati to participate in Formula 4 powerboat races, Alia Abdul Salam has set her sights on inspiring and empowering others. The first Emirati woman to hold an international driving licence is setting an example for young women, and her main goal is to make her country proud.
Cultural photographer Alia Bent Sultan is known for her work that bridges the gap between the UAE’s rich heritage and its modern advancements. She is an iconic artist, celebrated for her viral photographs that capture the essence of Emirati heritage and storytelling. Beyond her impressive artwork, she serves as the Director of the Government Communications Department at the Ministry of Community Development in the UAE.
From a career in PR to falling in love with cooking, Amna Al Hashemi discovered her true passion and embarked on a journey to learn culinary arts, starting training as a pastry chef. Soon, Amna became the first female chef in the UAE to open her own restaurant in 2016.
Alia Hussain Lootah is a leading figure in the UAE art scene; she is a source of inspiration for emerging creatives across the country. As one of the first participants in the prestigious Salama bint Hamdan Emerging Artist Fellowship Program (SEAF). Alia has dedicated her career to exploring innovation, light, and form through her delicate and intricate works. Recognised as a distinctive voice representing the new generation of UAE artists, her influence resonates far beyond the gallery walls.
Zahra Lari’s love for skating didn’t stop in childhood; she went as far as becoming the UAE and MENA region’s first international competitive figure skater and five-time UAE National Champion. She was also the first to achieve this while wearing the hijab, earning her the nickname “The Ice Princess in Hijab.”
