Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah is proud to have hosted a distinguished celebration in honor of Emirati Women’s Day, recognizing the remarkable achievements and contributions of Emirati women in shaping the UAE’s future. The event, held in collaboration with the esteemed Lara Tabet—TV presenter, luxury brand ambassador, founder of Arab FashionPreneur, and philanthropist—took place on Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at the Social Restaurant within the hotel.
This exclusive gathering brought together influential women from various fields to share their inspiring stories of leadership, resilience, and dedication. It was a momentous occasion to pay tribute to the pivotal role Emirati women have played in the UAE’s development and to celebrate their ongoing efforts in driving the nation forward. The luncheon featured a curated menu inspired by the elegance and cultural richness of the UAE, providing guests with an exquisite dining experience. The event also served as a platform for networking, allowing attendees to connect and engage with like-minded individuals who share a passion for empowering women.
The event highlighted the extraordinary achievements of the panellists, including Dr. Engineer Suaad Al Shamsi, the first Emirati female aircraft engineer and leading female influencer in the aviation field in 2023; Suaad Al Suwaidi, the world’s first female Emirati and Arab wildlife photographer; Reem Al Musabbah, the youngest Emirati female serial tech entrepreneur and head of the youth council; Captain Sahar Al Rasti, the first female Emirati ship captain; Dr. Laila Faridoon, CEO of New Economy Academy, thought leader, author, motivational speaker, and recipient of the Middle East Woman Leader in Corporate Management Excellence Award; and Myriam Al Zarouni, a key member of the Education and Human Resources Council, who has played a significant role in leading educational transformation in the UAE and held leadership roles with the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Center.
The panel discussion covered a range of topics, including the panellists’ career journeys and the experiences that inspired them to become pioneers in their respective fields. They shared insights on the challenges they faced as Emirati women in male-dominated industries and discussed how they successfully navigated these paths. The significance of Emirati Women’s Day was also a focal point, with each panellist reflecting on what the day means to them personally. The discussion concluded with the panellists’ offering messages for the next generation of women, sharing their hopes for the future of Emirati women in the UAE, and providing unique perspectives on what success means to them.
As a hotel deeply embedded within the community, Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah, in collaboration with Lara Tabet, is honoured to support and host events that celebrate and uplift the community. “We are privileged to host this special celebration of Emirati Women’s Day,” said Natalie Litowshick, Commercial Director at Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah. “Celebrating Emirati Women’s Day is a reflection of our commitment to acknowledging and supporting the outstanding contributions of women, not only in the UAE but globally. This event, made even more special through our partnership with Lara Tabet, is a tribute to the incredible women who have been instrumental in shaping the UAE’s success story. We look forward to celebrating their achievements and fostering an environment where their contributions are recognized and appreciated.”
