Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, known as the Mother of the Nation, declared that this year’s observances will extend beyond a single day to encompass a full month of initiatives, appreciation events and programs highlighting women’s achievements. In a letter to Emiratis, she said, “As the horizon of ambition expands with you and through you, our celebration this year will not be limited to a single day.” She added that it will serve as an occasion for action and to affirm that women in the UAE are part of an integrated national system.
The national day, fixed on August 28, was instituted in 2015 to recognize Emirati women’s contributions to the country’s development, according to the General Women’s Union. This year’s theme, “We Emerge Stronger and Better”, emphasizes continuous progress and collective responsibility, a statement from the authorities indicated. It follows last year’s commemoration of the General Women’s Union’s 50th anniversary under a different slogan focused on community partnership.
The General Women’s Union was established in 1975 under the guidance of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, who has championed women’s empowerment for decades, historical records show. Noura Al Suwaidi, secretary-general of the union, has noted in past remarks that the day embodies half a century of achievements that shaped Emirati women’s history. A UNDP assessment placed the UAE 13th globally and first in the region on the Gender Equality Index in 2025.
Cultural institutions have organized dedicated programs to coincide with the extended celebration. The Zayed National Museum will host a long weekend of workshops on traditional crafts such as Talli and Khous, culinary sessions and live performances by Emirati artists, the museum’s schedule shows. These activities run from Friday through the weekend and seek to illustrate the role of women in preserving and advancing national heritage.
Academic bodies are contributing through awareness and engagement activities spanning the month. The University of Sharjah has planned an art exhibition, a women’s marathon, an entrepreneurial bazaar and discussion sessions involving female students, graduates and those with disabilities, a university release stated. Dr Amina Almarzooqi, the vice chancellor for student affairs, tied the events to broader visions for women’s leadership extending to 2075.
Wellness and hospitality providers have introduced special offers lasting the full month in support of the occasion. Talise Spa is offering complimentary additional treatments with certain bookings and 30 percent discounts on retail products for UAE resident women through September 28, according to the venue’s announcement. Comparable promotions at other facilities include 50 percent reductions on spa treatments on Mondays for several weeks.
Corporate initiatives have also aligned with the national celebration. PureHealth has supported more than 200 women through its Emirati Women’s Chapter mentoring program, the health group reported. Shamsa Al Mheiri, who leads the chapter, highlighted how community strength has driven progress, according to an interview published this week.
