UAE Women’s Day 2025 is not just a symbolic date; it’s a national milestone. This year marks the Women’s Union Golden Jubilee, commemorating 50 years since the founding of the General Women’s Union (GWU) on August 28, 1975. The official 2025 theme,”Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years”,emphasizes unity, empowerment, and collective progress. From government agencies to private corporations, this event is being embraced by the entire country.
What is the theme of Emirati Women’s Day 2025?
The 2025 theme, Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years, celebrates five decades of organized women’s advocacy and development in the UAE. As reported by Khaleej Times, it underscores collaboration between genders and social sectors, reminding the world that UAE gender equality is not a dream,it’s a movement.
The theme is deeply aligned with the national strategy, especially as President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed has declared 2025 as the “Year of Community.” With support from Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, known as the “Mother of the Nation,” the theme reinforces community solidarity and women’s leadership in building the future of the UAE.
Who launched Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years?
The driving force behind both the theme and the celebration is Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak. She is the founder of the General Women’s Union UAE, and she established Emirati Women’s Day in 2015. Her legacy in supporting education, leadership, and rights for women has elevated the UAE into a model of female empowerment in the Arab world.
Her vision for the UAE Women’s Day 2025 is to unite both women and men, organizations and individuals, under a shared national goal: build a more equitable and sustainable society together.
When and where is the UAE celebrating Women’s Day 2025?
The official date is August 28, 2025, and the UAE will mark it with nationwide events across sectors. From forums in Abu Dhabi to cultural celebrations in Dubai, every emirate will play a role.
Gulf News & Being She – “Emiratia” (Dubai)
- Hosts: Gulf News in partnership with Being She
- Event: “Emiratia” celebration on August 28, 2024, held at Raffles The Palm, Dubai.
- Highlights: Panel discussions, keynotes, networking sessions, featuring top Emirati female leaders
Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council (ADBWC) – Abu Dhabi Forum
- Organizer: ADBWC, linked to Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce
- Event: Business-focused Emirati Women’s Day Forum
- Focus: Empowerment of Emirati women in business and social development.
ADNOC – Annual Internal Celebration
- Organizer: ADNOC (Abu Dhabi National Oil Co.)
- Venue: Abu Dhabi Energy Center
- Format: TED-style talks, SDG‑5 pledge signing, participation by top executives, hosted on Aug 28, 2025
du (Telecom Operator) – HQ Event in Dubai Hills
- Organizer: du
- Venue: du Headquarters, Dubai Hills
- Details: Exclusive event with special guest Huda Al Matroushi, CEO Fahad Al Hassawi involved Ministry of Health and Prevention – UAE, Khaleej Express, Gulf News
Expo City Dubai – Humanitarian-themed Gathering
- Organizer: Expo City Dubai in partnership with the UN OCHA
- Venue: Women’s Pavilion
- Focus: Humanitarian contributions of Emirati women, including film premiere and panel discussions.
Each venue and organizer brings a unique focus, from UAE women leadership initiatives in business to humanitarian work and sustainability.
Historical Context: Why Emirati Women’s Day Matters
Emirati Women’s Day 2025 is rooted in a rich history. The celebration began in 2015 under the guidance of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, aligning with the founding date of the General Women’s Union UAE in 1975. Since then, August 28 has become a powerful national reminder of how far Emirati women have come.
From occupying leadership roles to pioneering innovation in science, technology, arts, and diplomacy, Emirati women have transformed the country’s landscape. This year’s theme highlights the intergenerational commitment to progress.
How is the UAE honoring 50 years of women empowerment?
In many ways:
- Recognition & Awards: National ceremonies will spotlight women who have made exceptional contributions in fields like education, governance, and the arts.
- Public Forums: Policy panels and thought-leader talks will explore ongoing issues in UAE gender equality and inclusion.
- Community Engagement: Volunteer programs, educational workshops, and cultural festivals will be hosted nationwide.
- Corporate Participation: Companies like ADNOC and du are holding internal events, highlighting women in leadership roles.
Additionally, the Women’s Pavilion at Expo City will become a beacon of empowerment through storytelling, art, and activism.
The Impact in Numbers
- Women make up 66% of the UAE’s public sector workforce
- 30% hold leadership positions
- Over 21,000 Emirati female entrepreneurs, the highest in the GCC
- 50% representation in the Federal National Council
These statistics reflect real progress and commitment, setting the UAE apart in the region and beyond.
Media & Partners: Amplifying the Message
Key media houses like Khaleej Times, Gulf News, and Sharjah24 are supporting awareness through interviews, features, and digital campaigns. Their collaboration with organizations such as TheWomenPost helps extend the reach to broader audiences, especially younger generations and international readers.
Summary at a Glance
|
Topic |
Highlights |
| 2025 Theme |
Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years |
|
Founder |
Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak |
| Significance |
Celebrates 50 years of the GWU; aligns with the Year of Community |
|
Focus |
Unity, empowerment, collaboration, leadership |
| Events |
Nationwide forums, panels, exhibitions, and cultural initiatives |
Final Thoughts
As the UAE Women’s Day 2025 approaches, the nation prepares to celebrate not only five decades of advocacy and progress, but also a future filled with unity and shared leadership. The theme, Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years, is more than a slogan, it’s a call to action. It signals that women’s advancement is a national priority, one tied to the UAE’s vision for growth, innovation, and harmony.
From the halls of government to the stages of international forums, Emirati Women’s Day 2025 sends a clear message: the journey continues, hand in hand.
Stay tuned to TheWomenPost for full coverage, exclusive interviews, and behind-the-scenes reports from across the UAE.
