In celebration of Emirati Women’s Day 2025 and the 50th anniversary of the UAE’s General Women’s Union (GWU), QnA International has unveiled its inaugural Emirati Women Leaders 2025 list, honouring trailblazers across government, business, and community development.
QnA International, the organisers of the GCC GOV HR Summit and Youth Summit, has provided a platform for leadership and innovation for over a decade. As the Summit marks its 13th year, the spotlight turns to Emirati women whose vision, resilience, and achievements continue to shape the UAE’s future.
Celebrating Leadership and Heritage
Reflecting on the importance of progress rooted in heritage, H.E. Hessa Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority in Dubai, said:
“We need to honour the legacy of our ancestors while shaping the future of our nation.”
Echoing this vision, H.E. Dr. Maryam Matar, Founder and Chairperson of the UAE Genetic Diseases Association (UAEGDA), highlighted leadership support:
“The support of my leader, and especially the support and roadmap set for us by the Mother of the Nation, H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak.”
Aysha Suleiman, Director of HR at RAKEZ, added:
“Leadership, for me, is not about titles, but about creating opportunities, enabling growth, and opening doors for others.”
Farida Mohammad Rafi, CHRO at Emirates Islamic, noted:
“All it requires is one step of courage for a woman to take any of the opportunities available and develop until they reaches their full potential.”
Huda Al Abbar, Director of HR at Dubai’s Department of Finance, said:
“I am inspired by the responsibility to open doors for future generations of Emirati women — to show them that with determination, they can lead, innovate, and shape the future of our country.”
Sarah AlBakeri, HR Director at TAQA’s Generation Business, emphasised:
“Congratulations to my Emirati sisters on this important day – you are my biggest inspirations.”
Recognised Leaders
Among the distinguished names on the Emirati Women Leaders 2025 list are:
- H.H. Sheikha Dr. Alia Al Qassimi, Senior Advisor, Community Development Authority (CDA)
- H.E. Fareda Abdullah, Assistant Undersecretary for National Employment, Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratization
- Ayesha Al Hammadi, EVP, Group HC Strategy & Talent Management, ADNOC Group
- Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Chief People, Government and Corporate Affairs Officer, Etihad Aviation Group
Inspiring the Next Generation
Mr. Sidh NC, Director at QnA International, said:
“The Emirati Women Leaders 2025 list celebrates not only professional excellence but also the courage, vision, and impact these women bring to their communities and the nation at large. We are proud to share their stories as a source of inspiration for current and future generations of Emirati leaders.”
The recognition list is being shared globally through QnA International’s media and industry network, amplifying stories of dedication, empowerment, and service.
