The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the Maldives, in partnership with The Maldives National University (MNU), co-hosted a special event to commemorate Emirati Women’s Day 2026 under the theme, “We Emerge Stronger and Better.”

The event brought together representatives from the UAE Embassy, MNU, government institutions and other stakeholders to celebrate the achievements of Emirati women and highlight the importance of women’s leadership, education and empowerment in advancing sustainable development.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Her Excellency Iruthisham Adam, attended the event and highlighted the longstanding friendship and close diplomatic ties between the Maldives and the UAE, established in 1978. Her remarks underscored the enduring partnership between the two nations and the importance of continued collaboration in areas of mutual interest.

Delivering the keynote address, Chargé d’Affaires of the UAE Embassy in the Maldives, Heba Aljneibi, highlighted the transformative progress achieved by Emirati women, inspired by the vision of the UAE’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and guided by the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak.

The event further highlighted the significant representation of women in the UAE’s political and decision-making institutions, with women holding 50 per cent of seats in the Federal National Council and nine of the 37 Cabinet ministerial positions, including the appointment of the world’s youngest female minister. These achievements demonstrate the importance of creating enabling environments where women can participate meaningfully in leadership and national development.

In her remarks, Vice Chancellor of MNU, Dr Aishath Shehenaz Adam, noted that women constitute more than half of university enrolments in both the UAE and the Maldives, highlighting their growing contribution to education, professional development and society. She emphasised that women’s advancement extends beyond individual achievement, stressing the importance of mentoring, encouragement, creating opportunities and supporting other women to rise.

The celebration directly contributes to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5: Gender Equality, by promoting women’s empowerment, leadership and equal participation in social, educational and professional spheres. It also advances SDG 4: Quality Education, through its recognition of women’s access to and participation in higher education as a foundation for personal and professional development.

Furthermore, the event supports SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, by highlighting the importance of inclusive opportunities and equitable participation in leadership and decision-making. The strong partnership between the UAE Embassy and MNU also reflects SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, demonstrating how international and institutional collaboration can strengthen shared efforts towards gender equality, education and sustainable development.

The Embassy acknowledged the expanding leadership roles of Maldivian women and reaffirmed the shared commitment of the UAE and the Maldives to advancing women’s empowerment, inclusive education, leadership and sustainable development across both nations. The event served as a meaningful platform to celebrate progress while strengthening collaboration towards a more inclusive and equitable future.