Stories
Emirati Women’s Day - a celebration of women’s contributions to sport across the UAE
date
28/08/25
author
To mark Emirati Women’s Day - a celebration of women’s contributions across the UAE, we wanted to acknowledge the occasion in our own way, by hearing directly from the voices that inspire fans on and off the field.
We reached out to female athletes across our network to share what the day means to them and how they see the future of women in sport.
Meet Abeer Alkhaja - From Weakness to Strength
Sports coach Abeer Alkhaja transformed her life through CrossFit and long-distance running. Her proudest moment was crossing her first marathon finish line: “It proved to me that the girl who once felt weak could push past limits."
Sports coach Abeer Alkhaja transformed her life through CrossFit and long-distance running. Her proudest moment was crossing her first marathon finish line: “It proved to me that the girl who once felt weak could push past limits."
Meet Zahra Lari - The Ice Princess Who Made History
Figure skater Zahra Lari became the first Emirati to compete internationally, breaking barriers for hijabi athletes worldwide. Reflecting on her journey, she says: “When it comes to Emirati women, nothing is impossible. They make the impossible possible."
Figure skater Zahra Lari became the first Emirati to compete internationally, breaking barriers for hijabi athletes worldwide. Reflecting on her journey, she says: “When it comes to Emirati women, nothing is impossible. They make the impossible possible."
Meet Mariam AlBlooshi - Spiking New Heights
Volleyball player Mariam AlBlooshi balanced motherhood, sport, and leadership, even founding the Abu Dhabi Spikers. Her defining moment was carrying the national flag: “That moment wasn’t just about personal achievement, it was about honouring my family, my community and generations of Emirati women paving the way for the future."
Volleyball player Mariam AlBlooshi balanced motherhood, sport, and leadership, even founding the Abu Dhabi Spikers. Her defining moment was carrying the national flag: “That moment wasn’t just about personal achievement, it was about honouring my family, my community and generations of Emirati women paving the way for the future."
Meet Hana AlNabulsi - Racing Against the Odds
Triathlete Hana AlNabulsi has competed in Ironman races and broken barriers in endurance sports. Her message is one of resilience: “It all begins and ends in your mind. Cancel out the external chaos and work until you reach your goal."
Triathlete Hana AlNabulsi has competed in Ironman races and broken barriers in endurance sports. Her message is one of resilience: “It all begins and ends in your mind. Cancel out the external chaos and work until you reach your goal."
Meet Areej Al Hammadi - Tackling Stereotypes With Ease
Footballer and Guinness World Record holder Areej Al Hammadi continues to push for recognition in women’s sport. For her, Emirati Women’s Day is a responsibility: “It’s a reminder to inspire the next generation, to keep pushing boundaries, and to show what is possible when women are given the space and support to shine."
Footballer and Guinness World Record holder Areej Al Hammadi continues to push for recognition in women’s sport. For her, Emirati Women’s Day is a responsibility: “It’s a reminder to inspire the next generation, to keep pushing boundaries, and to show what is possible when women are given the space and support to shine."
