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Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, known as the Mother of the Nation, directed that celebrations for Emirati Women’s Day extend across a full month rather than remain confined to the traditional date of August 28. The announcement, which Khaleej Times reported on July 15, 2026, introduced the theme “We Emerge Stronger and Better” to underscore continued national progress and ambition for women’s roles. Sheikha Fatima stated in a letter that the expanded observance will serve as an occasion for action, appreciation, launching initiatives, and highlighting models that affirm women in the UAE are part of an integrated national system. The directive also emphasised that the UAE spirit looks to tomorrow with ambition and responsibility.
Emirati Women’s Day, established in 2015 by Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, coincides with the founding anniversary of the General Women’s Union and has grown into an annual reflection on women’s contributions to the country’s development. A Khaleej Times assessment found that the occasion renews commitments to gender equality while celebrating achievements across sectors. The month-long format this year builds on that foundation by incorporating initiatives that span government, cultural and private entities throughout August and September.
The Zayed National Museum will host a three-day programme beginning August 28 that features workshops on traditional Talli and Khous handicrafts, cooking sessions with date-based Emirati recipes and live performances by female artists, according to The National. University of Sharjah has organised an art exhibition of works by pioneering Emirati women, a marathon promoting health and wellness, and a bazaar showcasing entrepreneurial projects by female students and alumni. These activities align with the broader national calendar that a University of Sharjah statement described as supporting increased participation in research, innovation and community service.
UNDP figures place the UAE 13th globally and first in the Arab region in the 2025 Gender Equality Index, illustrating measurable advances since the General Women’s Union was founded in 1975. Gulf News reported that PureHealth’s Emirati Women’s Chapter has mentored more than 200 women through six- to nine-month programmes pairing participants with coaches. Shamsa Al Mheiri, director of the chapter, said, “Our strength has always come from a community that stands together, celebrates diversity, places responsibility in women’s hands early and champions their success.”
Wellness providers have joined the commemoration with extended offers, Khaleej Times reported, including a month of complimentary additional treatments at Talise Spa at Madinat Jumeirah from August 28 through September 28 for bookings of selected 90-minute facials. Wellbeings Holistic Healing and Rayya Wellness outlets in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Ajman will provide 50 percent discounts on 90-minute spa treatments on August 28 and every subsequent Monday until September 27. Such commercial participation expands the reach of the official programme beyond public institutions.
Noura Khalifa Al Suwaidi, secretary-general of the General Women’s Union, has previously noted that the day recalls five decades of accomplishments that shaped women’s partnership in national development. Coordination among the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, the Family Development Foundation and other bodies ensures unified messaging across events. The month-long focus concludes with continued emphasis on women’s leadership in academia, business and public life as the UAE advances toward its 2071 centenary goals.
