The unstoppable women of the UAE

Khaleej Times spoke to Emirati women from various backgrounds and careers, about what Emirati Women's Day means to them.

"Islam affords women their rightful status, and encourages them to work in all sectors, as long as they are afforded appropriate respect."

These were the wise words once spoken by the late Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Shaikh Zayed wholeheartedly believed that all women should be given endless opportunities to seek success and rightfully fulfil their goals and dreams.

It is the year 2016, and today the nation is celebrating Emirati Women's Day - a day that recognises the accomplishments women in the UAE have achieved since the birth of the General Women's Union on August 28, 1975 - that was established by the Mother of the Nation, Shaikha Fatima bint Mubarak.

The women of the UAE have proven to be a shining example of just how far the nation has come, and are an example of true role models who are driven by the opulence of the word "success."

Khaleej Times spoke to Emirati women from various backgrounds and careers, about what this day means to them, and why it is crucial for women in today's modern society to stand tall and proud - especially when she has achieved so much, while continuing to walk the journey that is ahead.

Empowering women and the nation

Mariam Ahli, head senior vice-president of marketing and corporate communications at Al Hilal Bank, shared her thoughts on the importance of what success means to her, which she believes should involve giving back to the community.

"I am passionate about charity work and giving back to our community. I am also the UAE Ambassador of Humanitarian Work at the Zayed Giving Initiative; part of my responsibilities includes travelling to countries in crisis following natural disasters such as earthquakes."

She pointed out that women empowerment is the drive that helps build a solid nation, working hand-in-hand, while helping those in need.

"The leadership of the UAE acknowledged and believed in the importance and potential of women in building a nation. We have been offered all the tools to grow and progress, which has enabled us to attain remarkable achievements."

She noted that Emirati women are considered among the most capable and empowered women in the region, securing prestigious jobs within the local and the public sector, and in different industries such as ministers, court judges and pilots.

"Emirati Women's Day is priceless; a day when each and every Emirati woman feels appreciated, valued and motivated to continue her journey towards excellence," she added.

Although Ahli is expecting a child, she does not believe that it should stop her from fulfilling her daily duties, responsibilities and roles as a businesswoman.

"I am pregnant and working. I am taking my current situation as a personal challenge to myself and as an opportunity to show others that a woman, even while pregnant, can continue to be a reliable employee and a leader.

"It is very important for mothers to balance their work and personal lives. My husband has always been there to encourage me to explore my full potential, thrive and succeed."

She believes that when it comes to business, there is always room for growth.

"I am always working on myself, and learning new things in my personal and business life. I am currently focusing on enhancing my leadership skills by undertaking government sponsored training programmes.

"My ultimate hope is to harvest a top-level government position in international economics or political relations - and I hope to realise this dream in the near future," she concluded.

"I believe that Emirati Women's Day is a great initiative by Her Highness Shaikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the UAE General Women's Union," said Hind Al Attar, the HR Head for Noor Bank. "It is strong recognition of how far we have come in the UAE, and I would personally like to see more of such initiatives."

"I think that Emirati Women have always been considered as strong role models to the rest of the Arab world and we have come a long way," she added. "Today we are seeing significantly more Emirati women interested in joining the banking industry than before, as they want to play their part in contributing to the UAE's highly important financial services workforce."

Role models for the future generation

Huda Abdullah, who works as the head of the Emirati Segment at First Gulf Bank (FGB), highlighted on the notion that UAE women have made remarkable accomplishments since formation of the Union.

"The banking and finance sector was historically a male-dominated industry, with few women working in managerial roles across the industry.

"The industry as a whole has also evolved dramatically throughout my career in regards to the role of women in the sector," she added.

According to Oxford Strategic Consulting 2015 Emirati Employment Report, women are significantly more likely (21 per cent) than their male counterparts (four per cent) to work in banking and finance, and the UAE Banks Federation is actively working to strengthen the support for women in the sector and increase female leadership by at least 10 per cent.

As many as 8,000 women now account for almost 72 per cent of the UAE nationals in the banking workforce, and approximately 43 per cent of the total workforce.

Abdullah, who began working as a branch customer service officer in a bank while completing her Masters in Business Administration, pointed out that it is crucial for women to receive the support that they need, from their families, as well as their country.

"The UAE is a leading example of a nation that provides ongoing support to its people by offering them the highest quality of education to obtain leadership positions in various sectors.