On the occasion of Emirati Women’s Day, the UAE has unveiled the “Mother of the Nation 50:50 Vision”, a landmark national strategy that will guide women’s empowerment for the next five decades.
The initiative, inspired by the vision of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, “Mother of the Nation,” Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union (GWU), President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, seeks to solidify Emirati women’s role as central partners in shaping the nation’s future and advancing its global influence.
A National Commitment to Women’s Empowerment
President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, praised the remarkable achievements of Emirati women over the past 50 years under Sheikha Fatima’s leadership. They affirmed that the new vision establishes the foundation for a brighter future and opens broader opportunities for women to contribute both locally and internationally.
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed stressed:
“The progress of the UAE has always been closely tied to the achievements of Emirati women… the launch of the Mother of the Nation 50:50 Vision reaffirms our commitment to advancing together – hand in hand – in partnership towards the future.”
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid added:
“We celebrate women as mothers, sisters, daughters, and wives… as nurturers of generations, guardians of values, and partners in shaping the nation’s development. They are the spirit of the country and true makers of change.”
Emirati Women’s Day 2025 Theme
Marking the 50th anniversary of the General Women’s Union, this year’s Emirati Women’s Day is celebrated under the slogan “Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years of Achievement.” The theme aligns with 2025 being declared the Year of Community under the national vision “Hand in Hand,” highlighting cohesion and women’s role as equal partners in nation-building.
Core Pillars of the 50:50 Vision
The Mother of the Nation 50:50 Vision, extending until 2075, is built on three main pillars:
- Family and National Identity – strengthening cultural values and family cohesion.
- Governance and Strategies – integrating women’s affairs into national frameworks with equal opportunities in education, employment, and leadership.
- International Developmental Partnerships – boosting the presence of Emirati women on the global stage through diplomacy, forums, and partnerships.
The vision includes future-focused initiatives such as foresight labs in technology, AI, climate, and energy; expanded STEM education for girls; international awards under the UAE’s name; and support programs for senior Emirati women and People of Determination.
A Legacy of Progress
Since its founding in 1975, the GWU has led transformative achievements:
- Education: Female illiteracy dropped from 62% in 1975 to just 1.6% in 2024. Today, women represent 52.6% of university graduates, with 64% specializing in STEM.
- Leadership: Emirati women now hold 42 senior federal positions and make up 24% of the Cabinet. They also represent 50% of the Federal National Council.
- Society & Culture: From supporting over 5,000 craftswomen and 4,000 families through heritage initiatives, to spearheading women’s sports federations, Emirati women have been at the heart of preserving culture and driving innovation.
- Global Impact: Emirati humanitarian initiatives now reach over 50 countries worldwide, with partnerships through the UN and other global organizations.
Looking Ahead
Noura Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General of the GWU, hailed the new vision as a “renewed national commitment” to ensuring women remain at the heart of the UAE’s development and international leadership.
She emphasised that the 50:50 Vision aligns with the UAE Centennial 2071 and beyond, strengthening the nation’s role as a global model of empowerment, inclusivity, and innovation.
