Celebrating Emirati Women’s Leadership: 5 Icons Shaping the Nation
- Pooja Sharma Kautia
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
In the UAE, leadership is not defined by tradition - it is defined by vision. Among the nation’s greatest strengths is its commitment to empowering women, ensuring their voices guide its future. Today, Emirati women are not just participants in governance; they are at its helm, shaping policy, diplomacy, science, and society.

Here are five women whose stories reflect the UAE’s journey towards progress, inclusivity, and innovation.
H.E. Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy — Minister of State for International Cooperation (2016–Present)
The Global Connector
Few events captured the world’s imagination like Expo 2020 Dubai, and behind its success was H.E. Reem Al Hashimy. As Minister of State for International Cooperation, she has championed humanitarian aid, education, and development, placing the UAE at the heart of global dialogue. Her work demonstrates that diplomacy is most powerful when it builds bridges of opportunity.
H.E. Sarah bint Yousef Al Amiri — Minister of State for Advanced Technology & Education Leader
The Scientist of the Stars
The UAE’s ambitions reached space with the Emirates Mars Mission - and H.E. Sarah Al Amiri was at its forefront. Leading the mission’s science team, she became a symbol of possibility. Now, as Minister of State for Advanced Technology, she steers the country’s future in education and innovation, reminding young people that the sky is not the limit - it is only the beginning.
H.E. Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi — Minister of State for Government Development and the Future (2020–Present)
The Architect of Tomorrow’s Government
Change is the only constant, and governments must adapt. H.E. Ohood Al Roumi, Minister of State for Government Development and the Future, ensures the UAE stays ahead. By embedding digital transformation and future readiness into the fabric of governance, she is crafting a public sector that is as innovative as the people it serves.
H.E. Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrui — Minister of Community Empowerment (2023–Present); Former Minister of State for Youth
The Voice of a Generation
At just 22, H.E. Shamma Al Mazrui became the world’s youngest minister. What could have been a symbolic appointment became a profound responsibility - she built youth councils, championed empowerment, and carried the UAE’s voice into global climate debates. Today, as Minister of Community Empowerment, she focuses on social inclusion, proving that young voices can shape the future.
H.E. Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi — Minister of State for Foreign Affairs (2023–Present); Former Minister of Culture & Youth
The Cultural Diplomat
H.E. Noura Al Kaabi understands that culture is power. As Minister of Culture and Youth, she promoted the creative industries that define identity. Today, as Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, she channels that insight into cultural diplomacy, strengthening the UAE’s presence on the world stage through creativity and dialogue.
A Unified Legacy
Together, these five women represent more than personal achievements. They represent a vision of the UAE that is bold, inclusive, and future-focused. Their leadership echoes a powerful truth: when women lead, nations thrive.
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