On the evening of Saturday, March 9, 2025, the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) hosted a noteworthy event titled “Empowering Women,” held in the historic house of Sheikh Saeed bin Hamad Al Qasimi in Kalba. This gathering coincided seamlessly with International Women’s Day, signifying a commitment to recognizing and advancing the status of women in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
In an impressive display of togetherness and recognition of women’s contributions to societal development, the event was graced by Sheikha Asma bint Saqr Al Qasimi—a prominent advocate for women’s empowerment—alongside various directors and representatives from governmental departments and institutions. Additionally, a diverse crowd of women from Kalba and the broader Eastern Region towns attended, reflecting a keen interest in the advancement of female leadership and community engagement.
The evening was characterized by its multifaceted agenda, tailored to illuminate the rich tapestry of the Emirati woman’s journey. Sheikha Asma expressed her admiration for the SBA’s efforts, describing the event as “wonderful and diverse.” Her praise underscored the critical role the Sharjah government plays in bolstering initiatives aimed at empowering Emirati women across various sectors.
In an exclusive interview with Sharjah 24, Sheikha Asma elaborated on the event’s highlights, particularly noting the panel discussion that provided profound insights into the accomplishments and ongoing challenges facing Emirati women. This interaction not only celebrated past successes but also served as a platform for envisioning future advancements in gender equality and women’s rights. The discussion featured several influential female leaders from various fields, whose shared experiences and visions resonated strongly with the audience.
The evening was further enriched by an exhibition that showcased manuscripts from the Juma Al Majid Centre, underscoring the UAE’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and the pivotal role of women within that narrative. Complementing this display was an exhibition focused on traditional crafts, presented by the “Lammat Baraka” team, reinforcing the creativity and craftsmanship of Emirati women. Such initiatives affirm the SBA’s dedication to promoting not only literature and education but also cultural practices that enrich local communities.
In a captivating touch, the event featured a performance by Al Sharq Choir, which enchanted attendees with traditional Andalusian songs. This beautifully displayed the intersection of culture and empowerment, allowing attendees to connect emotionally with the rich heritage of the region while celebrating the achievements of women.
This celebration of women’s empowerment is part of a broader narrative in the UAE, where efforts to advance women’s roles in society have gained significant momentum over the past few decades. The nation has witnessed a surge in female representation across various sectors, particularly in culture, business, and government. Governmental entities have implemented numerous initiatives aimed at increasing women’s participation in the workforce and ensuring equal opportunities across all fields.
The “Empowering Women” evening also served as a reminder of the continuous journey toward gender equality in the UAE. While significant progress has been made, challenges persist. Events like this shine a light on the importance of ongoing dialogues and collaborative efforts to support women in achieving their full potential. They underscore the belief that empowering women is not merely a goal, but a crucial element of national development.
In conclusion, the SBA’s “Empowering Women” evening not only celebrated the strides made by Emirati women but also reinforced the collective responsibility of society in fostering an environment where women can thrive. The event exemplified the UAE’s commitment to gender equality and set a precedent for future initiatives aimed at empowering women across all facets of society.
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