Dubai: Her Excellency Naeema Ahli, CEO of the Dubai Women Establishment, said the organisation's 20th anniversary marks an important milestone in a journey that has helped strengthen the position of Emirati women, expand their participation and enhance their role in the UAE's development process.Speaking during the opening of the second edition of the Emirati Women's Forum, Ahli said the vision of Her Highness Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, wife of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, President of the UAE Gender Balance Council and President of the Dubai Women Establishment, has been a key driver of the organisation's progress over the past two decades.In her opening remarks, Ahli said the objective since the establishment of the Dubai Women Establishment was not merely to create an institution focused on women, but to build a platform for creating opportunities, developing capabilities and opening new horizons for Emirati women to contribute to shaping the future.She added that this vision has been translated over the past 20 years into initiatives, programmes, projects and institutional efforts that have helped create a more supportive environment for women and enabled them to transform their ambitions into achievements.Ahli stressed that the organisation does not view the past two decades as the conclusion of a chapter, but rather as the foundation for a new phase of ambition and progress.She described the success story of Emirati women as "the story of a nation" that has believed since its founding that people are at the centre of development and that women are essential partners in building the future.Ahli also highlighted the pivotal role played by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, "Mother of the Nation", Chairwoman of the General Women's Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation.She said Her Highness has supported the aspirations of Emirati women and opened doors of opportunity for them, helping transform their journey into an inspiring model that extends beyond the UAE.Ahli noted that this year's Emirati Women's Day theme, "We Emerge Stronger and Better", launched by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, is more than a slogan celebrating achievements.She said the theme represents a vision for the future and reflects the ongoing commitment to building on the gains already achieved by Emirati women and advancing their role in the nation's continued development.
