EMIRATI WOMEN LEAD THE WAY

dubai — From engineering to aviation; ministries to government departments; business ventures to board rooms — there are no fields where Emirati women have not left their mark. These inspirational women have not only ventured into traditionally male-dominated fields, but also excelled.

Engineering — specifically industrial — used to be a maledominated field. Along came Dr Shaikha Al Maskari in the 1970s to become the first woman to work in the oil fields of Abu Dhabi. “It was in 1985 when they realised that they had no regulations for women to serve in the oil field and they started creating policies. If we want change, we have to lead it,” Al Maskari, who is now 77 years old, told Khaleej Times.

Despite all their achievements, Emirati women are still battling stereotypes. Reem Al Marzouqi, an architectural engineer and the first UAE citizen to be granted a US patent for her car invention that helps people with special needs, said: “Unfortunately, the West still thinks we only think of food, camels and tents. They don’t believe we have innovations, and I was happy I’m one of

Sheikha Fatima is a symbol, example and role model; and the Emirati woman is also a symbol, example and role model for all women in the region. HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Women are the heart of the nation and integral to its progress. They’re capable and empowered leaders who can take our nation to new heights. HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan

those who could change that idea about Emirati women.”

And that’s precisely how government initiatives such as Emirati Women’s Day help women in their battle. Marzouqi said: “When leaders focus on young women, they prevent us from getting distracted by demotivation.”

The UAE has realised that women here are not playing catch-up with men; in most sectors, they are leading the way. As Al Maskari summed up: “I thank God I’m alive to witness this progress; to see women forming one-third of our Cabinet and taking their spots in aviation and military. I wish my mother was alive to see how Emirati women are shining in each sector. — reporters@khaleejtimes.com