When is Emirati Women’s Day 2025?
Harper’s Bazaar Arabia shares everything you need to know about this week’s special celebration
Every year as August rolls around UAE nationals and residents begin counting down the days to August 28 – a date when the whole nation celebrates the formidable women what have shaped the Emirates and will continue to do so in the years to come.
In honour of 2025’s Emirati Women’s Day Harper’s Bazaar Arabia answers all your question about this special occasion.
Emirati Women’s Day 2025: Everything You Need To Know
What is Emirati Women’s Day?
Emirati Women’s Day is a national celebration that recognises and honours the achievements, strength, and contributions of Emirati women across all sectors of society — from education and the arts to business, politics, science, and beyond.
Unlike International Women’s Day, which is observed globally in March, Emirati Women’s Day is deeply rooted in the UAE’s own history, culture and aspirations. It’s a moment to reflect on the central role Emirati women have played in building the nation and shaping its future.
Families, businesses, and communities across the country take this opportunity to honour the women in their lives and shine a spotlight on female empowerment, leadership and progress in the UAE.
When was Emirati Women’s Day founded?
Emirati Women’s Day was founded in 2015 by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Al Ketbi, wife of His Highness Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. She is often referred to as the Mother of the Nation and played a pivotal role in shaping the history of the UAE.
When is Emirati Women’s Day?
This year, Emirati Women’s Day will be celebrated on Thursday, August 28, 2025.
What is 2025’s Emirati Women’s Day theme?
The official theme for Emirati Women’s Day 2025 is “Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years,” marking the 50th anniversary of the founding of the General Women’s Union in 1975. Announced by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the theme reflects the UAE’s inclusive approach to women’s empowerment, highlighting the values of shared responsibility, unity, and community collaboration across all sectors of society.
It honours the contributions Emirati women have made over the decades and reinforces the nation’s continued commitment to advancing their role in shaping the UAE’s future. The theme also aligns with 2025 being declared the “Year of Community,” underscoring the spirit of solidarity that defines both the past and the path ahead.
Is Emirati Women’s Day a public holiday?
While Emirati Women’s Day is not an official public holiday in the UAE, many companies offer perks to their female Emirati employees on this special day.
How To Celebrate Emirati Women’s Day 2025
Shop local, Emirati-owned brands when gifting
If you’re looking to gift something special on Emirati Women’s Day, consider making your purchase from a local brand. Harper’s Bazaar Arabia shares a list of Emirati brands to shop here, and the Visionary Emirati Women Behind The Region’s Chicest Jewellery and Fashion Brands along with 12 UAE-based jewellery brands here.
From Emirati royals like Her Highness Sheikha Mahra Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, to past Bazaar cover stars like Hamda Al Fahim, Alia Al Mur and Afra Al Dhaheri; Amna Al Qubaisi; Salama Al Shamsi, Latifa Al Gurg, Alia Al Shamsi, Hala Al Gergawi, Noora Shawqi and Mouza Aldhaher, enriching one’s self by learning more about Emirati women, from their own words, is an excellent way to spend the day.
Lead image credits: Hamda al Fahim shot by Greg Adamski at The Museum of the Future for Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s December 2022 issue. Editor in Chief: Olivia Phillips. Art Director: Oscar Yáñez. Senior Fashion Editor: Nour Bou Ezz. Senior Producer: Steff Hawker. Hair and Make-Up: Jazmin Lois Rodriguez. Photographer’s Assistants: Alireza Yahoozadeh and Mark Offemaria. Hair and Make-Up Assistant: Sabiha Perween. Fashion Assistant: Amelie Louisa Klewe.