The United Arab Emirates commemorated International Women’s Day with a wave of tributes from its highest leadership, recognising the pivotal role women play in shaping both national and global progress.

President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in a message shared on the social media platform X, expressed profound gratitude. “On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the contributions of all women in fostering lasting progress and development to uplift society,” he stated. “To women in the UAE and around the world, we express our sincere gratitude as you continue to inspire future generations through your pivotal impact and achievements in all fields.”

Echoing these sentiments, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, also took to X, highlighting women’s enduring strength and contributions.

The nation’s celebration aligned with the 2025 United Nations theme, “For all women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.”. This year, Emirati women’s contributions across various sectors have been instrumental in significant national achievements. The UAE’s progress was further underscored by its rise to seventh position globally and its continued regional leadership in the 2024 Gender Inequality Index, published by the United Nations Development Programme.

Recent milestones include the expansion of women’s representation in government with the appointment of Sana bint Mohammed Suhail as Minister of Family, following the ministry’s establishment. The launch of the National Policy for the Promotion of Women’s Health marked another significant step, ensuring comprehensive healthcare services for women throughout their lives. Economic empowerment remained a key focus, with the Ministry of Economy mandating that private joint-stock companies allocate at least one board seat to women upon the conclusion of current board terms.

The UAE also solidified its international commitment to gender equality through a strategic partnership with UN Women, formalised in March 2024. This collaboration includes a $15 million investment over three-and-a-half years, aimed at bolstering women’s status worldwide and supporting the UN Women Liaison Office for the Gulf Cooperation Council.