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    Steps to women empowerment in the business landscape with Haif Zamzam

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    2 hours ago

    In celebration of International Women’s Day, Haif Zamzam, Senior Vice President of Strategy & Marketing at TECOM Group PJSC, shares a written essay that highlights how the incredibly driven and entrepreneurial women in the UAE are driving transformational changes in the business landscape.
    Here, Haif insights the initiatives in place, how the UAE has elevated the women in the various fields including creative, tech, and more. Plus, the milestones, opportunities, and challenges faced as they have built brands and organizations.
    Haif Zamzam, Senior Vice President of Strategy & Marketing at TECOM Group PJSC
    Responsible for overseeing the strategy and marketing teams, Haif leads the way in analysing short and long-term development that drives the goals onwards and upwards through a stellar combination of remarkable leadership and exceptional vision.
    Scroll through the below to read her personal essay.
    The UAE is demonstrating how empowering women can catalyse sustainable economic progress. Women’s leadership and innovation are driving growth across the country’s diversified economy, and their entrepreneurial spirit and expertise are transforming the business landscape.
    Women are actively shaping the economy with their growing role in the country’s workforce, comprising about 75% of positions in the crucial education and health sectors, in addition to about 20% of the social affairs sector. Moreover, 23,000 Emirati businesswomen lead projects valued at over AED 50 billion and hold 15% of board positions in chambers of commerce and industry nationwide.
    Far from being spectators, women are the architects of economic and social progress in the country. Achieving such progress requires consistent action, and the UAE’s global example must be lauded as International Women’s Day is observed this year under the theme of ‘Accelerate Action’.
    Solid Foundations
    The innumerable contributions of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the 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, have laid the foundation of the UAE’s past, present, and future growth.
    The pathways to advance women’s roles are further shaped by the guidance of Her Highness Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, President of Dubai Women Establishment (DWE), and wife of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court.
    Image: Supplied
    This is supported by women’s representation in key leadership roles. From Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi’s appointment as the UAE’s first female Cabinet minister in 2004 to the appointment of Khadija Al Bastaki, Senior Vice President of Dubai Design District (d3) to DWE’s board in 2024, women’s contributions – and potential – are nurtured at all levels of government. The UAE’s achievement of full parliamentary gender parity, as recognised by the World Economic Forum’s 2024 Global Gender Gap Report, exemplifies this progress.
    Accelerating Action
    As the accelerator of business excellence in Dubai and beyond, TECOM Group is actively nurturing an environment that encourages women-led innovation for the greater good. Women comprise one-third of our workforce, and our commitment to accelerating gender-balanced innovation is also reflected across the four sector-specific verticals of our in5 incubator, which has nurtured more than 1,000 start-ups since its inception in 2013.
    Today, 30% of in5’s active start-ups are owned by women. The incubator’s repertoire of women-led businesses includes Peri.care, a femtech innovator under in5 Design and RelphaCare Technologies, a biotech firm at in5 Science, both of which demonstrate how women’s empowerment can contribute towards holistic, socially impactful innovation. Nurturing such female entrepreneurship and leadership is a key pillar of the National Policy for Empowerment of Emirati Women 2031, and with women representing 56% of STEM graduates from government universities, the future is promising for female-driven innovation in the country.
    Such success is possible thanks to the UAE’s supportive policy environment, including robust legislation protecting women’s workplace rights, that enables consistent opportunities to empower women in the workforce. The private sector must proactively leverage these frameworks to create pathways for women to thrive and lead in all spheres of life – be it within or beyond the workplace.
    Image: Instagram @tecomgroupdubai
    Mentorship, particularly in high-growth sectors like technology and healthcare, is vital for women entrepreneurs and professionals. We activate such support through initiatives like TECOM Group’s Backyard Internet Talks at Dubai Internet City and The DSP Leadership Network at Dubai Science Park, which ensure professionals in these key knowledge economy sectors are routinely offered peer support and networking opportunities to achieve business and individual growth.
    Such accelerated action, supported by strong policies and greater female representation in leadership, is essential to unlock sustainable economic growth. As we observe International Women’s Day this year, we must learn from the UAE’s successes to accelerate action that supports inclusive and gender-balanced socioeconomic prosperity.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Image: Supplied & Unsplash More

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    6 restaurants to treat the woman in your life this International Women’s Day

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    8 mins ago

    There’s always a reason to champion the women in your life. When occasions such as International Women’s Day occur – the reason to celebrate them is even more special and heartwarming.
    International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8, 2025 and Dubai offers a variety of special dining experiences to honour this occasion. Here are some notable restaurants in Dubai offering exclusive deals and events for International Women’s Day 2025:
    So, if you’re planning to treat the woman in your life, be it your mom, wife, sister, daughter or loved one, here’s your ultimate editor-approved International Women’s Day guide 2025.
    Heston Blumenthal, Atlantis The Royal

    This one Michelin-starred dinner features a special tasting menu paying homage to the iconic women who have shaped British cuisine from Tuesday March 4, 2025 to Sunday, March 9, 2025. Guests will begin their dining experience with four innovative canapés crafted by the next generation of female chefs at the award-winning Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, each inspired by their personal heritage. The menu features historically influenced dishes, including Scallop & Cucumber, inspired by Margaret Dods’ The Cook and Housewife’s Manual, and Chicken Cooked with Lettuce, a tribute to Hannah Wolley’s The Rich Cabinet, with grilled lettuce, smoked onion, and celeriac. For dessert, diners will indulge in Bohemian Cake , a rich chocolate mousse with cherry, honoring Victorian culinary pioneer Agnes Bertha Marshall. The experience concludes with four exquisite petit fours, showcasing the future of culinary artistry. The menu is priced at Dhs850 per person, with an optional grape pairing at Dhs650.
    For more information visit Dinnerbyhdbdubai.com
    Kaspia

    Kaspia Dubai in DIFC celebrates International Women’s Day on March 8, 2025, with a special experience honoring women. Every female guest will receive complimentary indulgences, including a handcrafted mini chocolate box, a pink pavlova dessert, and the Extraordinary mocktail, a refined blend of green apple juice, rose and elderflower syrups, citric solution, ginger ale, and a butterfly white chocolate garnish. This elegant gesture reflects Kaspia’s fusion of French and Russian gastronomy, offering a sophisticated dining experience in a vibrant setting. With this exclusive offering, Kaspia Dubai honors the contributions of women across all walks of life, ensuring that every guest feels celebrated and cherished.
    For more information visit Kaspiadubai.com
    Piatti by The Beach

    The beachfront restaurant offers an authentic Southern Italian experience overlooking the Arabian Gulf. With every detail thoughtfully curated, these experiences celebrate the strength and spirit of womanhood at Raffles The Palm. All women can enjoy a special Aperitivo offer that pairs freshly shucked oysters with three handcrafted drinks. Priced at Dhs250 per person on March 8 2025, from 12:30pm to 9pm.
    For more information visit raffles.com
    Buddha Bar

    One of Dubai’s most popular restaurant’s is celebrating International Women’s Day by offering female guests a complimentary signature cocktail as a gesture of appreciation. Known for its inventive cocktails, signature Asian fusion dishes, and vibrant ambience, Buddha-Bar provides an extraordinary dining and entertainment experience. This initiative honors the achievements and spirit of women on this special occasion. Aditionally, renowned for its captivating ambience, legendary Asian fusion fare, and world-class entertainment, the establishment has long been a hotspot for those seeking an eclectic and extraordinary experience in Dubai.
    For more information visit
    Adaline
    On Saturday, March 8, 2025 Adaline Dubai (DIFC) celebrates International Women’s Day with A Night in the Life of Adaline, a high-energy karaoke-themed evening blending elevated Italian dining, live music, and immersive entertainment. Guests will enjoy a curated playlist of ‘80s, ‘90s, and 2000s anthems, with the chance to take the stage for a live karaoke takeover, culminating in an all-guest singalong. The night is complemented by a bespoke cocktail menu inspired by confidence and glamour, featuring creations like the Showstopper, Pink Lady, Mic Drop Margarita, and Pop My Cherry. With bold flavors, live performances, and an electric atmosphere, this one-night-only event promises an unforgettable celebration.
    For more information visit Adaline-restaurants..com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    International Women’s Day 2024: 6 special ways to treat the woman in your life in Dubai

    Life by Sarah Joseph 2 hours ago Who run the world? Girls… This month is all about making the women in your life feel special. As women celebrate each other on the highly-sought after day of International Women’s Day on March 8, 2024. This prominent occasion, shines a light on women’s achievement, both political and social, while also reminding us the importance of why we continue to fight for gender equality Whether you to treat yourself or some noteworthy in your life with these exciting deals. So, see through the guide in celebration through one of these 6 fabulous ways to mark International Women’s Day. Try this signature cocktail This March is all about women, and to celebrate in style, Tamoka has introduced a limited Pink Cocktail representing the strength and beauty of Tamoka’s female staff and guests. Rosa Rosea blends the botanicals of Tanqueray No.10 and the sweetness of St. Germain complemented by Dragon Fruit and Lemon flavours. On March 8th, in honour of International Women’s Day, Tamoka is delighted to offer complimentary Rosa Rosea cocktails to all female guests, and for the rest of March, ladies can enjoy for just Dhs30 at any time, subject to one per lady. Indulge in some sweet treats This International Women’s Day, carine welcomes all ladies with a beautiful rose upon arrival and tops off every meal with a complimentary dessert. Showcasing admiration for women, carine was built from Chef Izu’s love for his wife, Carine. He wishes to bring Carine’s unwavering love and nurturing care to the venue by providing a space that encourages diners to relax, laugh, and spend quality time over exceptional food. It will be available on March 8, 2024. For more information visit carine.ae Enjoy a bar takeover by women In celebration of International Women’s Day on Friday, March 8, 2024, Amazónico Dubai’s iconic bar in Paraíso Rooftop Club will be taken over by female bartenders from 6pm to 10pm, with an aim to empower women in the hospitality industry and spotlight their talents. The award-winning DIFC restaurant will mark the special occasion by a special beverage selection including Cathedral, Jaguarete and Amazonegroni, prepared by some of the most talented female mixologists in the region. The creative female minds behind the bar will be bringing their talent and expertise to craft exclusive cocktails for Amazónico guests and especially females, in a move to celebrate the achievements of women and female talent in all industries. The breathtaking cocktail bar at Amazónico Dubai that extends the length of the ground floor offers an extensive selection of signature tropical cocktails, and premium grape and it’s open daily from Monday to Friday 12pm to 3am. For more information visit amazonicorestaurant.com  Gift her a gorgeous bouquet The homegrown floral studio, Villa Aumèdan started as a passion project by the founders Ahmad and Noura Almuhassin. Customers can craft their own bespoke bouquet’s as per their loved ones’ preferences. The stunning Jumeirah villa is picture-perfect in every corner with a hidden inside a flower studio and concept store along with a hidden café. IYKYK is a beautiful café with trendy interiors and a zen-inducing crystal-clear swimming pool. Once you’re done with your morning coffee, you can then browse through the store and get yourself a pretty bouquet of flowers. A great way to start any day and to celebrate the occasion. It’s open from Monday to Thursday 10am-10pm, Friday to Sun 10am-midnight and is located in Jumeirah 1, near Mercato Mall @iykyk.ae. Take a spa break Amid Dubai’s thriving Marina district, The Ritz-Carlton Spa heals, relaxes, cleanses and energizes with a careful blend of Eastern traditions and European techniques. This March Ladies can delight themselves on International Women’s Day and Mother’s Day with a package inclusive of afternoon tea at The Lobby Lounge and a 60-minute massage for Dhs550 per person. The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai will be celebrating women this March with exclusive offers to help you spoil all the special women in your life, whether your mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, or a dear friend. The resort introduces luxurious offerings just for ‘her’, including lavish spa treatments and decadent afternoon tea spreads. For more information visit ritzcarlton.com Get fit The Wonder Women Weekender will consist of Boxica’s regular weekend schedule; full of a range of group classes from boxing and full body, ride, strength and hit classes – completely free of charge for all women. Women can invite your friends along, grab your boxing gloves or even jump on a bike! Put on your best ‘pinktastic’ outfit and enjoy the fitness party! Oh, and not forgetting they will hydrate every female class member afterwards with some of Boxica’s delicious smoothies straight from the Boxica cafe. Boxica will be celebrating both International Women’s Day, all weekend long (8-10th March) at the The Hive, Studio City with complimentary classes and smoothies all weekend long for women. For more information visit boxica.ae – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @marikamimi More

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    International Women’s Day 2023: Meet the 10 women redefining the region’s creative scene

    Lifestyle

    by Camille Macawili
    2 hours ago

    To mark the occasion of International Women’s Day, Emirates Woman spotlights on the incredible women across the region redefining their respective industries and challenging the status quo.
    Scroll through to discover the 10 next-gen faces to watch and names to know.
    Fatma Husam, Entreprenuer

    Fatma Husam is a 28-year-old Emirati entrepreneur and influencer with more than half a million Instagram following. Proving she’s more than just a pretty face, Husam is also the founder of Kamin, a luxe abaya label loved by many for its sophisticated silhouettes and contemporary touches. On top of that, she is currently busy building a creative community space called MNBAIN, launching soon at DIFC.
    Nora Mansour Samawi and Amina Debbiche, Co-founders of The Open Crate

    Nora Mansour Samawi and Amina Debbiche are pioneering the future of art collection management with its first-of-its-kind platform, The Open Crate, that allows curators and collectors to digitally store and keep an inventory of physical assets. Through this, Cultural Engineers Samawi and Debbiche aim to document and preserve the cultural legacy by focusing on the Middle East and Africa.
    Rabah Saeid, Founder and Creative Director of Styled Habitat

    Dubai-based Rabah Saeid founded Styled Habitat in 2016, an award-winning interior architectural studio that boasts a portfolio of exclusive VIP clients from art collectors to entrepreneurs. With each project, Saeid puts a sophisticated touch and thoughtful approach to design to many residential, hospitality and commercial spaces in the UAE.
    Sarah Alagroobi, Founder of The Letters Project

    Sarah Alagroobi is the founder of The Letters Project, an online platform that foregrounds the anthropological and sociocultural climate of the Arab region through anonymous letters. The Emirati multi-disciplinary artist, designer and educator puts forward her knowledge and insights on Khaleeji culture and sparks conversations on notions of Emirati stereotypes within both Middle Eastern and Western contexts through her practice and social media – specifically on TikTok with her growing number of following of 21.9K.
    “I hope that my beliefs in advocating for cultural shifts are going to contribute to changes that will speak to the people, for the people, by the people.” Alagroobi tells Emirates Woman.
    Emaan Abbass, Founder of Ketish

    Emaan Abbass is a Dubai-based Egyptian-descent feminine health advocate and founder of Ketish, UAE’s first feminine wellness brand. Launched in 2021 and backed by Huda and Mona Kattan, it provides highly effective and multi-beneficial wellness formulas that are empowering and luxurious in every way.
    By entering the business of health and beauty, Abbass aims to create a safe space and empower women to gain a deeper understanding of topics we normally shy away from – all things body, arousal, desire, and wellness.
    Hessa Al Suwaidi, Designer and Women’s Well-being Advocate

    Emirati textile printed designer and women’s well-being advocate Hessa Al Suwaidi has worked with some of the biggest names in the fashion and art industries. Last year, Al Suwaidi was featured on Prada’s Ramadan and Eid campaigns called “Parallel Harmonies” alongside mountaineer Raha Moharrak and actor Rakan Bin Abdel Wahid. Notably, she has also done a collaboration highlighting traditional Emirati weaving with Bentley Motors for Dubai Design Week.
    Through her projects and works, the young creative expresses her cultural identity and pushes forth her regional roots and inspires women of her to follow their dreams.
    Lina Malaika, Filmmaker and Co-Founder of Clay

    A natural creative, (thanks to years of film production experience that runs in the family) Lina Malaika is an established filmmaker and creative consultant from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Malaika has worked on feature projects for publications in collaboration with luxury and contemporary brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chopard to name a few.
    More recently, she has co-founded Clay with designer Farah Hammad – a modeling agency that champions fresh talent by pushing for visibility to a new generation of faces to boost local careers.
    Maya Chantout, Creative Director

    Syrian creative director Maya Chantout is a revitalizing breath of fresh air.
    Chantout boasts of an impressive line up of design stints at Hermes, Chloe and Celine, as well as being distinguished by LVMH for her graduation collection. Currently she works as an art director and image consultant for fashion brands such as Mirae, Casablanca and Miu Miu where her distinctive bold energy, eclectic spirit and extravagant style have an evident influence. Her unique aesthetic reflects a collage of the two culture she’s been immersed in – from her childhood in Syria and her adult life in Paris.
    “I try my best to encourage people around me to respect their uniqueness and be true to themselves.” Chantout shares in Emirates Woman’s The Confidence Issue.
    Hala Khayat, Regional Director of Art Dubai

    In 2020, Hala Khayat joined Art Dubai as Regional Director where her extensive experience in the Middle Eastern market – specializing in Arab, Iranian and Turkish art – allows her to develop strategies for local and regional collectors’ long-term engagement, one of the driving factors for the continued remarkable success of Art Dubai.
    Khayat is also an advocate for Syria’s art community, which continues to play an integral role by championing young Syrian artists.
    Butheina Hamed Kazim, Founder of Cinema Akil

    Butheina Hamed Kazim is an Emirati founder of Cinema Akil, the Gulf’s first independent arthouse cinema in the GCC region.
    Without a doubt, Kazim has significantly contributed to the UAE’s arts and culture scene,  amplifying current sociocultural and political issues in the region through film festivals and program series. Her love for film has led her to many milestone moments including “Producing the short documentary Letters to Palestine, winner of the Special Jury Prize at the Abu Dhabi Film Festival in 2010” she tells Emirates Woman.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram More

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    Three empowered women that Etihad Airways has championed over the years

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    5 hours ago

    The national airline of the UAE has made history with various inspiring women making their mark in the world of aviation.
    With women playing a pivotal role in aviation, Etihad Airways continues to uplift them throughout the organisation in different departments as they inspire future generations.
    As on March 8, 2023, we celebrate International Women’s Day, we take a look at the leading women at the airline who have been pioneers in this field.
    Dr. Nadia BastakiFirst-ever female Chief at Etihad Airways

    Dr. Bastaki first joined the national airline in 2007 and became the first UAE national female to a specialist in aviation medicine. By playing a key role in developing the airline’s Medical facility, she has now made it the region’s leading aeromedical centre. With over 20 years of experience as a medical practitioner, she also comes with a wealth of executive leadership capabilities and continues to provide overall clinical guidance for the airline. In November 2021, Etihad Airways announced her as Chief Human Resources, Organisational Development and Asset Management Officer, becoming the first-ever female chief at the national airline of the UAE. “I was the first woman to be promoted to the executive level within Etihad which was a big milestone in my career. Most importantly, it’s what difference you can make and how you as a woman can contribute to the success of the UAE,” she previously told Emirates Woman about breaking down barriers. “
    Captain Aisha Al MansooriFirst Female Emirati Captain in a commercial Airline

    The groundbreaking appointment for Captain Aisha has come after years of hard work and training in August 2022. Captain Aisha has gone on to climb the ranks, completing the required flying hours to become Senior First Officer and she also become the first female UAE national to fly the superjumbo passenger aircraft the Airbus A380. Reaching new heights (quite literally), Captain Aisha Al Mansoori has become the UAE’s first female Emirati Captain in a commercial airline. The 33-year-old has risen to the ranks of Captain, becoming the first Emirati female to do so for a commercial airline, having completed a rigorous training programme with Etihad and undergone the requisite flying hours to be considered for the title.
    Mariam Al QubaisiHead of Sustainability at Etihad Aviation Group

    As the Head of Sustainability at Etihad Aviation Group, Al Qubaisi has led the sustainability division and found solutions to ensure the planet is always kept in mind first. From scaling up with commercially viable pathways to understanding the approach to green hydrogen production. As head of Sustainability & Business Excellence in Etihad, she supported a pro-sustainability transformation within the organization, making it a thought leader in sustainable aviation focused on cleaner fuels, operational efficiency and carbon offsets. She is an active sustainability expert serving task forces within the GCAA, IATA and ICAO. In addition to her position at the airline, she has worked as an instructor in the department of Interdisciplinary Studies at Zayed University where she taught Environmental and Natural Sciences.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Meet The Firefighting Rugby Player Proving You Really Can Do It All

    Zinhle Ndawonde represents South Africa in both sevens and fifteens international women’s rugby. And if that isn’t heroic enough, she pays the bills working as a firefighter at King Shaka International Airport. Here are some nuggets of inspiration we can all use in our lives.
    Be True To Yourself
    Most teenagers do everything they can to fit in. Not Zinhle. In high school, with no girls’ rugby team to try out for, she played on the boys’ team – while other girls were “looking all cute in short skirts on the sidelines”. It paid off.

    READ MORE: “I Trained With The Blitzboks — And This Is What Happened”
    Have The Audacity To Dream Big
    “I grew up in Inanda township in KwaZulu-Natal and there was so much stuff going on,” says Zinhle. “Teenage pregnancies, gangs, drugs, alcohol. I didn’t want to be involved in any of that, I wanted something else for myself. But I knew that if I didn’t distract and distance myself, I might as well just accept that as my future. I used my passion, my rugby, to find my way out.” 
    Make Your Own Luck
    Zinhle had the opportunity to train with the Springbok squad leading up to the 2014 World Cup. But she didn’t make the cut into the final World Cup team. So she started training harder and removed distractions that she believed were holding her back. Two years later, she was called up to the SA team. 

    READ MORE: 6 Sportswomen Who Totally Changed The Game
    Share The Good
    As an adidas ambassador, Zinhle is on a mission to create opportunities for young women and girls. “adidas has inspired the legacy I want to leave, which is all about aiding young athletes from poor backgrounds. I’m living proof that it doesn’t matter where you come from, as long as you’re prepared to put in the hard work,” she says.
    Get inspired by Zinhle on Insta: @zinhlendawonde

    👏 Proud Fans Of Women’s Sport 👏
    The gender pay gap in sport is real. And massive. Sponsors will tell you it’s because fans watch men’s sport more than women’s. We say: challenge accepted. We’ve chosen to spotlight sportswomen who are killing it on the field, court, floor or track – because the world of sport is full of sheroes who deserve to be recognised and rewarded for being at the top of their game. #SAWomenInSport

    READ MORE: Is There Gender Parity For Women In Sports?

    READ MORE ON: International Women’s Day SA Women In Sport Women Empowerment More