Dubai: Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi emphasized the significant achievements of Emirati women across various fields, highlighting the UAE's commitment to empowering women during the second edition of the Emirati Women's Forum. The event, organized by Dubai Women Establishment at Madinat Jumeirah, marked Emirati Women's Day and underscored the enduring role of Emirati women in family building, community strengthening, and national development.
According to Emirates News Agency, Sheikha Lubna, the UAE's first female minister, shared key milestones from her career, emphasizing the importance of women in representing the UAE globally, fostering cross-cultural connections, and nurturing national identity and shared values. She noted the deep-rooted resilience and contributions of Emirati women, which predate the formation of the Union, highlighting their traditional roles in family responsibility and community engagement.
Reflecting on her 2004 appointment as Minister of Economy, Sheikha Lubna described it as a transformative milestone challenging perceptions of Arab women. She credited the UAE's leadership for its early confidence in women's abilities, paving the way for their significant participation in government, politics, and the economy. She noted that women had already made strides in medicine, engineering, and technology long before entering ministerial roles.
Sheikha Lubna stressed that the success of women in the UAE begins with trust, opportunity, empowerment, and leadership support. She recounted her transition from the business sector to government, where the support from leadership and Cabinet members was pivotal in her role as a minister overseeing 1,200 employees.
She highlighted the shared responsibility of preserving Emirati identity and values, involving leadership, family, community, and educational institutions. She emphasized the family's primary role in shaping children's character, urging Emirati women to continue instilling responsibility, belonging, and patriotism.
In conclusion, Sheikha Lubna underlined the crucial role of Emirati women in safeguarding national identity and contributing to the UAE's development and future.