16 of The Best Inspirational Quotes From Arab Female Leaders
Words of wisdom from some of the most illustrious women who are based here in the region
With International Women’s Day upon us, the coming weeks are an excellent time to celebrate empowering female figures who inspire us.
In the Arab region, we are fortunate to have an abundance of powerful women to look up to. From royalty to poets to savvy businesswomen, these are ladies who are breaking barriers and shaping society, unafraid to stand in their power; most importantly, they’re encouraging us to do the same.
In light of International Women’s Month, Bazaar Arabia rounds up 16 inspiring quotes from powerful Arab female leaders.
HH Sheikha Mahra Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum
“I take great pride in embodying the values of being Emirati, which include being a symbol of love, family, kindness, and camaraderie. Our communal culture flourishes through our unity, and I believe this is a source of pride for us.”
In an exclusive interview with Harper’s Bazaar Arabia in January 2024, Sheikha Mahra shared her sentiments on the beauty of Emirati culture and the qualities that make a great female.
HRH Princess Noura bint Faisal Al Saud
“I believe life is all about opportunities, and the risks you might take to accomplish what you truly believe in. This life lesson has come through failures, which I’ve always seen as an opportunity to learn and grow, and get right back out there again.”
The Saudi princess‘ exceptional work ethic and determination shined during an inspiring interview with Harper’s Bazaar Arabia in December 2020.
Queen Rania of Jordan
“The greatest support that a woman can get is from another successful woman who lifts her up and tells her, you can dream, you can succeed.”
Queen Rania shared this sentiment in an interview with Harper’s Bazaar Arabia in 2019, suggesting that women are stronger when unified and that everyone has a role to play in uplifting others.
Tima Shomali
“Whenever a woman wants to challenge something within an industry, people say that she doesn’t know what she’s doing; but whenever a man shares his vision, he simply gets showered with admiration.”
The renowned director and creator of AlRawabi School for Girls shared exclusively with Harper’s Bazaar Arabia the challenges she’s encountered in navigating success as woman in a male-dominated industry.
Sonal Vara-Parmar
“I think the Middle East allows you to challenge those norms. I’m very grateful for that. I think they want to see women in power and leadership positions.”
IAM Entertainment founder Sonal Vara-Parmer discussed the stereotypes of being a woman in business in the Middle East, sharing that she feels more empowered as a woman in the region.
Afra Al Dhaheri
“I learn just as much as I teach. I don’t know everything – I have experience, but I don’t know it all. So when my students come to me curious, we learn new things together.”
Emirati mixed-medium artist Afra Al Dhaheri is committed to supporting the next generation of creatives in the UAE. In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar Arabia, she shared her philosophy towards being a mentor.
Alia Al Mur
“Change is good, and calculated change is even better.“
As the Chief of Transformation and Partnerships at the Dubai Future Foundation, Alia Al Mur has had an astronomical career, working on projects such as The Museum of the Future, and Burj Khalifa. In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar Arabia, Alia shares her strategy to getting to the top.
Hamda Al Fahim
“I have never been a minimal person. I always love more. I love details and I love layering and adding. I am always pushing in the direction of how can we develop this more? How can we push the idea more? You know, more is more to me – more is better.“
The Emirati fashion designer has made a name for herself for her exquisite, intricately detailed creations. She shares exclusively with Harper’s Bazaar Arabia her approach towards fashion, encouraging women everywhere to never dull their sparkle.
Balqees Fathi
“I have a voice and I have different means in which I can actually deliver it. But there are millions of women out there who don’t have anyone to advocate for them. So I hold this responsibility on my shoulders, and deliver these messages through my songs, because I know there are some women who don’t have anyone to hear their voices.”
In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar Arabia in 2023, the singer shared how she champions women through her music and lyrics.
Huda Kattan
“Words are powerful and can have a profound effect, which is why it’s so important to be your own cheerleader, and let your words lift you up!”
The Dubai-based beauty mogul has often talked about the power of gut instincts and listening to your inner voice. Here, she shares her thoughts on self-belief and cultivating a positive self-concept even in the face of criticism.
Nujoom Alghanem
“There are hundreds of hours that pass throughout our lives either in waiting for things to happen or in waiting for the right time to start something more profound.”
The distinguished Emirati poet, artist, and filmmaker is known for her thought-provoking work. She shares her thoughts on the importance of taking action, and the dangers of stagnation in the pursuit of your life’s purpose.
Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud
“If you stand still, you give them the power to push you down. If you keep walking, they have to follow you.”
As the first female Saudi Arabian ambassador, Princess Reema is the embodiment of perseverance. Her uplifting sentiments always encourage us to walk confidently in our path.
Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg
“Obstacles are always a stepping stone to success. Surmounting an obstacle is a test of character. You will be surprised to realize how far you can go from the point you thought was the end.”
Businesswoman, Raja Al Gurg runs the successful trade and commerce conglomerate Al Gurg Group in the UAE. She stands as a testament to the fact that obstacles are a stepping stone to achieving our goals.
Fatima Al Jaber
“We all have success within us, it is about how we can bring it out, it is all about the passion and love you have for what you are doing. We all go through failures, but that does not mean we have to give up.”
As a woman thriving in the male-dominated construction industry, Fatima has a passion for social issues. She is the Chief Operating Officer at the renowned Al Jaber Group in the UAE. She shares a reminder that passion and love for what we do will surpass any obstacle or hardship we may encounter.
Lubna Suliman al-Olayan
“True leadership knows not to go to extremes but knows how to confront and appreciate challenges.”
As the former CEO and Deputy Chairman of Olayan Financing Company, Lubna Olayan is considered one of the most powerful women in the world. She’s graced countless lists documenting influential people in business, and as such, has cultivated considerable leadership abilities. She shares her pearls of wisdom on being an impactful female leader.
Dr. Suaad Al Shamsi
“Today time is about responsibility and the enjoyment of life. I use this equation of time = life, so how you spend your time will determine how much you enjoy your life.“
As the first female aircraft engineer in the UAE, Dr Suaad Al Shamsi has a busy schedule. She highlights the importance of spending your time wisely, and filling your days with things that bring enjoyment and fulfillment into your life.