Empowered voices of Emirati women: Her voice, her vision, her impact
On Thursday 28 August, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will celebrate Emirati Women’s Day under the theme “Hand in Hand, Celebrating the 50th”, marking 50 years since the founding of the General Women’s Union. This milestone is a tribute to the legacy of progress made over the past five decades while looking ahead to their continued role in shaping the nation’s future.
At GHD, the occasion is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the voices of Emirati women across the company. We spoke with our Emirati colleagues to understand what empowerment means to them, how they see the future of Emirati women in the workplace and what it feels like to contribute to meaningful projects as part of GHD.
Dana Al Sagaaf, a Graduate Environment Consultant, says she’s inspired by the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, from site visits to technical reporting, that have a real impact on communities and the environment:
“Being part of a team of talented colleagues from diverse backgrounds motivates me to keep learning and growing, while knowing that our work directly supports sustainable development in the UAE. I’d like to see us represented in decision-making roles across all industries, with our skills and knowledge recognised as a driving force for progress.”
Nouf Al Qadi, an Environmental Consultant, is proud of how she’s merged her passion with purpose:
“From studying environmental science to leading initiatives on biodiversity and sustainable practices in the UAE, each step has brought me closer to contributing meaningfully to my country’s vision. I’m especially proud of the research and fieldwork I’ve done on shorebirds and conservation, which has deepened our understanding of local ecosystems.”
Salama Abdulla Aljneibi, an Administrator, is focused on understanding the business and the people behind it:
“I want to help shape a more intentional hiring process, one that doesn’t just fill roles but brings in people who align with GHD’s vision.”
Shamsa Al Hammadi, a Reception Administrator, values the deep connection she has to her culture and the freedom to dream big and make those dreams happen. She is hopeful for a future where Emirati women are seen as leaders, not just participants, in their fields:
“I want to see more Emirati women leading projects, influencing strategy, and being recognised as experts in their fields, not just as participants but as decision-makers who set the bar for excellence. I also want to see workplaces continue to create opportunities that allow us to grow, innovate and represent the UAE proudly on a global stage.”
Rayan Al Shehhi, a Graduate Architect, finds inspiration in the opportunity to design with purpose:
“What inspires me in my work at GHD is the opportunity to design with purpose, creating spaces that blend innovation with cultural identity — and collaborating with a diverse team that values collaboration and impact.”
While Emirati Women’s Day is a celebration of progress, it is also a call to action. The voices and achievements of our GHD women reflect the vision, resilience and leadership driving the UAE forward. Their impact is shaping a future defined by possibility and inclusion, and it’s up to all of us to champion and build on that momentum.
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About GHD
GHD is a leading professional services company operating in the global markets of water, energy and resources, environment, property and buildings, and transportation. Committed to a vision to make water, energy, and communities sustainable for generations to come, GHD delivers advisory, digital, engineering, architecture, environmental and construction solutions to public and private sector clients. Established in 1928 and privately owned by its people, GHD’s network of 12,000+ professionals is connected across 160 offices located on five continents.