A Shared Legacy: Four Female Trailblazers From The UAE Reflect On Emirati Women’s Day 2025

With the UAE marking Emirati Women’s Day on August 28,  Inc. Arabia invited four accomplished women from the country to share their reflections on the theme of the event this year, “Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years,” which commemorates the launch of the nation’s General Women’s Union in 1975. 

First up is Latifa Bin Haider, who not only founded Baytukum, a Dubai-based regulated real estate crowdfunding platform, but also launched Mental Health AE, an initiative to raise awareness about psychological wellness and wellbeing. Alongside Bin Haider is Alanood Alawadhi, who’s a Sales Engineer at GE Vernova, the global energy technology giant pushing the shift toward a sustainable future. There is also Hanan Almarzooqi, whose role as the Director of Operations and Humanitarian Initiatives at Dubai Humanitarian places her at the heart of the UAE’s global relief efforts. Bringing the final perspective is Eman AlBastaki, Director of Emiratization and Government Relations at AW Rostamani Group, one of the UAE’s leading conglomerates spanning automotive, real estate, retail, and financial services. 

Together, their journeys capture the breadth of arenas in which Emirati women are making their mark in the UAE, from startups and sustainability, to humanitarian work and corporate leadership. Here’s how each of them reflected on this year’s theme of Emirati Women’s Day. 

Latifa Bin Haider 

As a social entrepreneur, Latifa Bin Haider has dedicated her career to building tools that empower people financially, emotionally, and practically. Her entrepreneurial journey began during university, when she launched Mental Health AE to open up honest conversations around wellbeing. “At the time, mental health was still a quiet topic,” she recalls. “But over time, that platform grew into a community of thousands, united by the belief that no one should struggle in silence." 

Driven by the same purpose of accessibility and impact, she later founded Baytukum, a real estate investment platform regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) that allows people to co-own property through crowdfunding. “The goal was simple: to make real estate investment accessible,” Bin Haider says. “We wanted to give people a chance to invest in what matters to them.” 

According to Bin Haider, these two endeavors are anchored in a simple but powerful ethos of empowerment. “Both ventures were born from the same belief,” she explains. “When people are given the right tools and support, they don’t just grow individually, they lift others with them. That’s the kind of impact I want to keep building.” 

And with that premise in mind, this year’s theme of Emirati Women’s Day—“Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years”—captures the very essence of her work. “This theme truly resonates with me, because everything I’ve built has been rooted in progress we create together,” Bin Haider says. “With Baytukum, we’ve enabled people from 18-year-old students to 82-year-old grandmothers to pool their resources and co-own property through crowdfunding. That is ‘hand in hand’ in action. People from different generations, backgrounds, and experiences coming together to build their financial futures." 

Looking back on Baytukum’s journey, Bin Haider emphasizes that its evolution since its launch has only deepened the values it was founded on. “I’ll never forget our very first property,” she says. “Every single investor was a woman. They trusted me, and they trusted the vision. Their leap of faith wasn’t just financial; it was a symbolic reflection of the collective courage and conviction that defines Emirati women today. I’ll always be grateful to the Baytukum community, because their belief turned an idea into a movement. Over time, that movement has built a community of people from all walks of life, each with their own story and reasons to invest. But that first step, taken hand in hand by a group of pioneering women, will always anchor our journey." 

A similar commitment to community is what also shaped Bin Haider's first venture, Mental Health AE. “What began as a small push to break stigma grew into a community of thousands supporting one another, sharing openly, and giving others the courage to speak up,” she shares. “That experience reminded me that change happens when we walk side by side—not ahead or behind." As it turns out, it’s with this belief in collective strength that Bin Haider approaches Emirati Women’s Day this year. “For me, Emirati Women’s Day is a reminder that progress is never a solo journey,” she says. “When we move hand in hand, we make the future more inclusive, more accessible, and more empowering for everyone."  

For Bin Haider, the strides Emirati women have made over the past 50 years can be summed up in one word. “Trust,” Bin Haider declares. “Emirati women earned the trust of our leaders, our communities, and our families, and that changed everything. Trust created the strongest foundation for us to build, lead, and grow." 

That trust, Bin Haider notes, was what first allowed her to launch Mental Health AE while still a student, at a time when conversations around psychological wellness were often considered uncomfortable. The women who supported her early on believed, like she did, that no one should struggle in silence. It was that same confidence, she adds, that later guided Baytukum’s journey. The first women who invested showed courage and vision, and, in turn, inspired her to keep building. Trust, she emphasizes, has remained the backbone of Baytukum—one reason why having the platform licensed and regulated by the DFSA has been integral from the start. 

However, Bin Haider highlights that the foundation of trust she has enjoyed also comes with responsibility. “I believe that the achievements of every Emirati woman before me created the runway for my generation to take flight, and it is our duty to extend that runway for those who will come after us,” Bin Haider says. “Today, we are trusted not only as participants, but also leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers.” And with this premise in mind, the advice Bin Haider wants to pass on to the next generation of Emirati women is rooted in the power of inquiry. “You don’t need to have all the answers,” she says. “But you do need to ask the right questions. That mindset has guided every step of my journey.” 

“Stay curious,” Bin Haider continues. “Keep asking. Don’t be afraid to ask questions that feel too big or too early. Asking questions will lead you to solutions that can help build our future. Don’t let failure scare you. What feels like failure is only a challenge in disguise, and every challenge will make you stronger and more ready for what’s next." Plus, she urges the next generation to never lose sight of the fact that progress is always collective. “Carry the UAE’s legacy forward with courage and curiosity, and never forget that progress is a shared journey,” she concludes. “You are not building just for yourself, but for the community walking hand in hand alongside you." 

Alanood Alawadhi 

For Alanood Alawadhi, an Emirati mechanical engineer now serving as a Sales Engineer at the energy tech company GE Vernova, this year’s Emirati Women’s Day theme of “Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years” speaks directly to her work and worldview. 

“This theme is very relevant to the energy sector I work in, especially as artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI (gen AI) increasingly transform industries and communities worldwide,” Alawadhi tells Inc. Arabia. “An energy-secure future, particularly one leveraging advanced technologies, hinges on the innovation, critical thinking, and analytical skills that are intrinsic to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. Innovation thrives on diverse perspectives, and women’s unique insights, problem-solving approaches, and leadership in STEM will be a game-changer as we navigate a complex and rapidly evolving world.” 

According to Alawadhi, the “Hand in Hand” theme not only reflects the collaborative nature of engineering, but also her nation’s long-standing commitment to both STEM and gender equality. “The UAE's foresight, 50 years ago, to make STEM a priority and bridge gaps in gender equality in science, has directly enabled professionals like me to take leading roles in these fields,” she points out. “This historical commitment means I can build on the progress of those who came before, gaining inspiration from their journeys and successes, and contributing my expertise to the advancement of the nation’s energy infrastructure." 

“Ultimately, the spirit of 'Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years' reinforces that innovation thrives in an inclusive environment where all talents are harnessed,” Alawadhi continues. “As an Emirati woman, the UAE’s commitment to investing in women empowers me to contribute my full potential, and GE Vernova provides me with a perfect environment to do so in a leading private sector energy company. I am proud to be part of the collective effort to build a more sustainable and equitable future for my country." 

According to Alawadhi, her experience today is inseparable from the path paved by generations before her. “Throughout the UAE’s history, women have played a crucial role in the building of the nation,” she explains. “Women’s empowerment is deeply rooted in Emirati culture and society, as under the UAE Constitution, men and women enjoy equal rights. This approach, anchored in the visionary foresight of the late HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father and first President of the UAE, recognized that an unwavering commitment to education for all, particularly for girls and women, would lead the country on the path to progress and prosperity." 

Here, Alawadhi also highlights the impact of education and institutional support in enabling the UAE’s women to enter fields like the ones she operates in today. “To build a strong foundation in education, the UAE established robust educational institutions, including universities, and paved the way for women to pursue higher education in technical and STEM disciplines,” she says. “Other policies and frameworks have also supported gender equality, enabling women's entry into traditionally male-dominated fields, and enhancing their contributions to the economy. Over the years, we’ve also had visible female role models in leadership positions across various sectors, including government, business, and even STEM. The UAE set a global benchmark for women’s leadership when HE Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi became the first female cabinet member in the country's history.” 

Alawadhi also shares that Emirati role models in STEM have been especially impactful. These include HE Sarah Al Amiri, the UAE’s Minister of Education, whose career path from software engineer to leading the Emirates Mars Mission, the UAE Satellite Program, and the National Space Strategy 2030 has cemented the country’s place in global space exploration. Another figure Alawadhi highlights is Nora Al Matrooshi, who became the first female Arab astronaut in 2021. “These pioneers demonstrated the immense capabilities of Emirati women, and their accomplishments in the public and private sectors have greatly influenced young women like me,” Alawadhi adds. “It has allowed us to aim high, pursue ambitious careers in any field, and envision and achieve our professional aspirations.” 

Having drawn strength from the women who paved the way, Alawadhi now shares her own advice for those who will follow. “Our leadership has significantly expanded opportunities to thrive and grow across every field,” she says. “Building on this strong foundation, we are now poised to shape what comes next, leading the nation towards a more globally competitive, knowledge-based economy. Achieving this future demands an agile mindset, coupled with a relentless commitment to continuous learning and adaptability. Actively seeking out new technologies and embracing lifelong learning will fuel innovation and prepare us for a future transforming at an unprecedented rate.” 

Additionally, Alawadhi underscores how proactive action and a solutions-oriented mindset can lead to significant impact. “I believe that each of us holds the power to make a profound impact by proactively seeking ways to improve systems and processes,” she declares. “True value emerges from taking the initiative to identify challenges, devise innovative solutions, and drive meaningful change. Ultimately, the 'Hand in Hand' theme of this year’s Emirati Women’s Day also serves as a blueprint for our collective success. It calls upon us to actively seek mentors, cultivate strong professional relationships, and master the art of collaborating effectively across diverse disciplines and cultures.” 

Hanan Almarzooqi 

As the Director of Operations and Humanitarian Initiatives at Dubai Humanitarian, Hanan Almarzooqi works at the intersection of strategy and impact—a perspective that shapes how she views this year’s theme of Emirati Women’s Day. 

“The idea of moving forward together is inseparable from humanitarian work,” Almarzooqi says. “No single organization or government can meet the scale of today’s crises alone; success depends on how well we align efforts, share resources, and act with unity of purpose. The UAE has always been a living example of this spirit, stepping in with speed and building partnerships that stretch across borders. In my own role, I see every day how collective progress turns strategy into impact. An aid mission only succeeds when dozens of actors, from logistics teams to partner agencies, pull in the same direction.” 

“For Emirati women, this theme carries an added layer of meaning,” she continues. “Our individual achievements have never stood apart from the nation’s journey, in fact every progress our country makes becomes a personal reason for pride. Today, Emirati women are not only contributing to humanitarian work, but shaping how it is coordinated and scaled globally, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with peers from every corner of the world. That shared progress is what gives our work both strength and purpose." 

Having become a part of the humanitarian field nearly a decade ago, Almarzooqi says the experience she has had in the sector has been transformative, teaching her not only about leadership, but about the deeper meaning of service. However, she tells Inc. Arabia that her foundation was laid much earlier. “Looking back, I feel the strongest foundation has been the access to education and the encouragement to take on leadership roles,” she says. “Growing up, I was inspired not only by the remarkable strength of Emirati women around me but also by my mother. Her determination, resilience, and values showed me what was possible. She taught me that with dedication and confidence, I could pursue my dreams, lead with purpose, and make a meaningful difference. I truly believe this spirit of determination and opportunity applies to all Emiratis, not just women, and it is what continues to drive our nation forward.” 

Having built her own path on this foundation, Almarzooqi is now intent on passing the baton to those who will come after. “My advice is twofold: embrace purpose, and embrace courage,” she says. “Purpose will anchor you when the work gets demanding, and courage will allow you to step into spaces where you may be the ‘first’ or the ‘only.’ Both are equally important. HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashed Al Maktoum has rightly said, ‘We are done with the phase of empowering women, we’re now empowering the society through them.’” 

“On a practical level, I would say to the next generation, seize every opportunity that comes your way, even if it doesn’t look like the perfect fit at first glance,” Almarzooqi continues. “Many of my own turning points came from roles or projects that seemed tangential, but ended up shaping my path. The UAE has built an environment where women’s voices are not just heard but valued, use that space boldly. And remember, leadership is not about titles; it’s about service and the impact you create for others.” 

Eman AlBastaki 

Eman AlBastaki’s role as the Director of Emiratization and Government Relations at UAE-based conglomerate AW Rostamani Group has given her a front-row seat to the UAE’s evolving workforce—a context in which this year’s theme for Emirati Women’s Day takes on added meaning.  

“‘Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years’ is a theme that resonates deeply with my journey and my field of work,” she tells Inc. Arabia. “This spirit of collective progress is the very foundation of how we build a sustainable and empowered workforce. Over the past five decades, Emirati women have worked hand in hand with leaders, organizations, and communities to drive the UAE’s national progress. In my role at AW Rostamani Group, I've seen firsthand how this collaborative spirit shapes our field. We work hand in hand with government bodies, educational institutions, and most importantly with our national talent. This partnership is crucial for creating meaningful career pathways and ensuring our Emiratization strategies are truly effective. It reflects our collective responsibility to foster an inclusive environment where every Emirati has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the nation’s ambitious vision. Ultimately, this theme celebrates the enduring power of unity and shared purpose in driving the UAE's remarkable journey of growth.” 

For AlBastaki, her own path has been shaped by the trailblazing women who came before her. “Over the last five decades, Emirati women have broken barriers and redefined leadership across industries, from government and business, to innovation and technology,” AlBastaki says. “Their resilience and determination have paved the way for women like me to build impactful careers while actively contributing to national goals. Throughout my journey, I’ve drawn deep inspiration from trailblazing Emirati women who have championed education, economic participation, and leadership. I especially consider [AW Rostamani Group Director] Dr. Amina Al Rostamani and her sisters as role models, whose achievements have shaped my aspirations and guided my leadership path. These contributions inspired me to drive initiatives such as Wa’ed, where we empower Emirati talent with the skills and opportunities needed to step into senior leadership roles and shape the workforce of the future. It's a testament to the legacy they built.” 

And just as AlBastaki has been guided by the trailblazers before her, she hopes that her own words can guide the next generation. “As HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum says, ‘Nothing is impossible,’” she says. “This is not just a quote; it’s a call to action. It’s an invitation to be bold, and to embrace every challenge as an opportunity to demonstrate your strength. For the next generation of Emirati women, my advice is to embrace a mindset of curiosity and relentless support for one another. Stay connected to the core values that define our culture, but never hesitate to drive innovation and change. And above all, remember that our collective success is only possible when we lift each other up. Continue to lead hand in hand—just as the theme of this year's celebration suggests—and you will carry the UAE's legacy forward toward an even more ambitious future.”