Monday, 25 May 2026
Inspiring Emirati women honored at First Al Hasbah Award Ceremony
Dubai — The enduring spirit and impressive achievements of Emirati women took center stage last night in Dubai, as the inaugural Al Hasbah Award for Inspirational Women honored trailblazers from a variety of fields. The celebratory event, held at the Copthorne Hotel, was graced by the presence of Sheikha Dr. Afra bint Hasher bin Manaa Al Maktoum, who was recognized as the 2025 Women of the Year.
Organized by the Ghobsha Foundation for Events in alignment with Emirati Women’s Day, the ceremony gathered prominent national leaders, innovators, and supporters of women’s empowerment. Dr. Khaled Al-Dhanhani, President of the Forum, led proceedings alongside a distinguished audience and keynote speakers.
The evening began with a heartfelt welcome from Dr. Badriya Al-Dhanhani, followed by remarks from Dr. Munqidh Al-Aqqad, Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Meta Aris International University. Guests were also serenaded by musician Sumaya Boukhashm’s soulful solo performance on the qanun, adding an artistic touch to the festivities.
One of the highlights was a dynamic panel discussion titled "Emirati Women: Partners in Leadership and Architects of the Future," featuring trailblazers such as Dr. Mona Obaid Al-Ayyan and Professor Najia Issa Al Ali. Their personal stories of success and resilience inspired the audience, reflecting the powerful role Emirati women play in shaping their nation’s future.
Poet and writer Kulthum Abdullah delivered a creative reading titled "Experiences and Poems," filling the room with moments of reflection and inspiration.
In a moving tribute, the Forum announced the launch of the book “Letters of Thanks to the Mother of the Emirates,” celebrating the legacy of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the General Women’s Union. Her vision and leadership remain a beacon for women’s empowerment in the UAE.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Al Hasbah Award for Inspirational Women 2025 to a select group of exceptional women:
- Fatima Al-Mughani (National Heritage)
- Kulthum Abdullah (Literary Creativity)
- Dr. Mona Obaid Al-Ayyan (Medicine and Health Sciences)
- Professor Najia Issa Al Ali (Institutional Management)
- Latifa Mohammed Al-Mulla (Community Service)
- Mouza Mohammed Al-Habsi (Health and Sports Media)
- Amina Al-Kamda Al-Ali (Social Responsibility)
- Aisha Rashid Al-Hamidi Al-Yamahi (Volunteer Work)
- Jawaher Abdullah Rashid Al-Hassani (Future Foresight)
- Ahlam Salem Al-Menhali (Innovation and Development)
- Maha Ibrahim Al-Hammoudi (Institutional Management)
Each awardee’s unique contribution was recognized as a pillar of progress in their respective fields.
The event concluded with a special tribute to the strategic partners and supporters whose collaboration made this celebration possible. The inaugural Al Hasbah Forum stands as a testament to the UAE’s commitment to championing women’s achievements—not only on a national stage, but around the world.