Mariam Al Hammadi: Policies and legislation have transformed opportunities for Emirati women

Dubai: Her Excellency Mariam bint Ahmed Al Hammadi, Minister of State and Secretary-General of the Cabinet, affirmed that policies and legislation supporting women have played a decisive role in advancing the position of Emirati women and expanding their contribution across all sectors.

Speaking during a session titled “A National Vision… Created Opportunities for Emirati Women” at the second edition of the Emirati Women’s Forum, Her Excellency highlighted the UAE’s achievements in women’s empowerment and the transformative impact of national policies.

She noted that the UAE’s success story in empowering women is reflected in a range of achievements and measurable outcomes, pointing out that women account for 55% of graduates from UAE universities and 50% of members of the Federal National Council.

Her Excellency said women in the UAE are empowered to create opportunities for themselves rather than wait for them, adding that Emirati women actively participate in decision-making and contribute to shaping the country’s future.

Discussing the foundations of women’s empowerment in the UAE, Her Excellency said the journey began with the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who believed that women are an essential pillar of society.

She added that the UAE leadership continues to believe that empowering society begins with empowering women.

Her Excellency highlighted the role of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, “Mother of the Nation”, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, describing her as a leading role model in supporting and empowering women through numerous initiatives and programmes.

Her Excellency Mariam Al Hammadi said legislation supporting women continues to evolve in line with the UAE’s future aspirations.

She noted that 93% of UAE legislation has been updated in recent years, while labour laws have introduced greater flexibility for women in both the government and private sectors through remote work, hybrid work arrangements, flexible schedules and job-sharing models.

She also highlighted legislation requiring the allocation of seats for Emirati women on the boards of directors of federal entities and companies.

Her Excellency added that the UAE has enacted laws that strengthen child protection and combat violence, creating a supportive environment that enables women to balance family responsibilities with professional success.

She stressed that the federal government continues to review and update legislation to address emerging challenges and further support the country’s vision for women’s empowerment.

Concluding the session, Her Excellency offered advice to young Emirati women, encouraging them to pursue excellence, remain ambitious and commit themselves to lifelong learning.

“My advice to young women today is to strive for quality and excellence in work, to be ambitious, embrace challenges and remain committed to continuous learning,” she said.

“Every Emirati woman will have her opportunity, and the most important thing is the impact she leaves behind.”