The sixth edition of the Women in Technology Forum, hosted by the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SPARK), commenced yesterday in the presence of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SPARK. The event gathered distinguished female leaders, technology pioneers, and young entrepreneurs from across the globe.
Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi opened the event with a speech in which she reminded the audience of women’s pivotal role in driving innovation and shaping the future, and advocated for a stronger female presence in science, research and advanced technologies.
“Women have always been engines of social progress, shaping health, education, and care systems,” she said.
“In today’s age of transformation, we must do everything to ensure women are equally central to creating our technological future. By combining women’s natural strengths, long-term thinking and strategic risk management with the power of emerging technologies, we can build more resilient systems, sculpt ethical innovation, and create smarter, healthier ways of living for generations to come.”
This year’s forum, themed “Future Lifestyles”, featured an engaging agenda of keynote addresses, panel discussions, and interactive workshops. Sessions covered pressing topics including health technology and quality of life, longevity-enabling solutions, artificial intelligence and robotics, sustainability, and smart living. A high-level CEOs’ panel explored policies to strengthen women’s participation in innovation-led industries, while the Sharjah Youth Council hosted a youth session that provided a platform for young voices to share their aspirations.
Speaking at the forum, Ohood Khalfan Al Roumi, UAE Minister of State for Government Development and the Future and Chairperson of the Higher Committee for Government Digital Transformation, underscored the importance of aligning technological progress with sustainable development and enhanced quality of life. She stressed that technology should be seen not just as smart systems, but as a catalyst for healthier and more fulfilling lives.
She also commended the Women in Technology Forum and its patron, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, whom she described as a visionary leader, role model, and a source of inspiration for women in the region and beyond.
The forum welcomed a diverse line-up of speakers, experts, and entrepreneurs, enriching the dialogue with global insights into advancing women’s contributions to technology.
Commenting on the event, Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO of SPARK, said: “Innovation thrives when diverse voices come together. Women’s participation in technology is vital to building sustainable knowledge economies. At SPARK, our vision is to create unique opportunities for women innovators and entrepreneurs to lead the future of innovation. The Women in Tech Forum has emerged as a dynamic international platform that broadens opportunities for women in science and technology. SPARK is delighted to support this forum as we share their vision of accelerating women’s empowerment in technology and innovation.”
(Inputs from WAM)
