The Media's Role in Shaping 50 Years of Emirati Women's Stories and the Next 50

Khaleej Times

14 hours ago

As we mark Emirati Women's Day, we celebrate not only the achievements of Emirati women, but also the platforms and voices that have carried their stories to the world. Over the past five decades, the UAE has witnessed a remarkable transformation in the role and visibility of women, a transformation that would not have been possible without the power of media to document, amplify, and inspire.
From the earliest days of the Union, Emirati women have been part of the national story, breaking barriers in education, excelling in public service, leading in business, and shaping our cultural identity. The media has documented these milestones, capturing the journey from the first Emirati women graduates and diplomats to the astronauts, ministers, entrepreneurs, and cultural icons of today. This coverage has not been merely observational; it has been instrumental in changing perceptions, opening minds, and creating a shared national narrative of empowerment.
The media's role has always been more than just reporting, it has been about framing possibility. The stories we choose to tell, the women we put on front pages, and the voices we feature all shape public imagination. When an Emirati girl sees someone who looks like her leading a ministry, heading a newsroom, or making groundbreaking scientific discoveries, she begins to envision her own potential.
A Leader Who Shaped My Path
For me personally, this journey has been deeply influenced by working alongside Her Excellency Mona Al Marri, a pioneering leader in the media industry whose vision, strategic insight, and unwavering commitment to excellence have inspired me on every step of my professional path.
Under her leadership, I have learned that media is not just a profession, it is a responsibility. H.E. Mona's ability to combine strategic direction with a deep respect for the power of storytelling has been a living example of what it means to lead with purpose.
Working on landmark initiatives such as the Arab Media Summit under her guidance has been transformative for me. These projects did more than just expand my technical skills, they broadened my horizons, deepened my understanding of the industry, and shaped my own leadership style. Through her mentorship, I have learned to approach challenges with creativity, to value accuracy and depth over speed, and to always keep the audience, and our nation's values, at the heart of every story.
Her example has taught me that leadership in media is as much about empowering people as it is about shaping impactful narratives. She invests in those around her, encourages potential, and creates opportunities for others to grow, lessons that have not only enriched my professional life but also my personal outlook.
The Next 50: Empowerment as a Shared Responsibility
As we look to the next 50 years, the responsibility for empowerment becomes a shared one. Media must continue to evolve embracing new technologies, engaging diverse audiences, and amplifying voices from every part of society. But equally, institutions, communities, and individuals must see themselves as co-authors of this national narrative. Empowerment cannot be limited to policy or celebration days; it is a daily practice of inclusion, opportunity, and respect.
The UAE's approach has always been comprehensive ensuring that women's empowerment is not a separate track, but an essential part of the nation's development. This is why Emirati Women's Day matters for all women, and indeed, for all citizens. It is a day to reaffirm that our progress is collective, and that the achievements of one group are shared by all.
We are now entering a global media environment where stories travel faster, but also risk being diluted or misrepresented. This makes it all the more critical for us to take ownership of our narrative to tell our stories with authenticity and courage, and to make sure they reach the widest possible audiences. The platforms may change from newspapers to social media, from television to virtual reality but the mission remains the same: to inspire, to educate, and to connect.
Carrying the Flame Forward
In the decades ahead, I believe the UAE's media will continue to be a force for good documenting the journeys of our women, championing their successes, and shining a light on the work still to be done. The next chapter will require us to be even more collaborative, more innovative, and more intentional about whose stories we tell and how we tell them.
As I reflect on my own journey, I am grateful for the leaders who have shown me the way none more so than H.E. Mona Al Marri, whose example continues to inspire my commitment to telling the stories that matter. Her leadership has not only shaped my career but has also shaped me as a person planting in me the values, vision, and courage to contribute meaningfully to our national narrative.
This Emirati Women's Day, I am reminded of something H.E. Mona often demonstrates through her work that the true measure of leadership is not in the titles we hold, but in the horizons we open for others. It is my hope that, in the years to come, I can carry forward even a part of the vision, generosity, and dedication she has shown so that the next generation of Emirati women will not only dream bigger, but know exactly how to make those dreams a reality.
Maryam Al Mulla
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Maryam Al Mulla is a leading Emirati media professional and the Director of the Dubai Press Club, where she plays a pivotal role in shaping the UAE's media landscape and fostering dialogue between journalists, thought leaders, and policymakers across the region. With a career dedicated to strengthening the media industry, she has been instrumental in advancing initiatives that empower journalists and enhance the role of media in driving knowledge, innovation, and sustainable development.
Under her leadership, the Dubai Press Club continues to be a hub for regional and international media engagement. She oversees flagship initiatives such as the Arab Media Forum and the Arab Journalism Award, which recognize excellence, inspire innovation, and elevate Arab journalism on the global stage. Her vision has positioned the Club as a platform that bridges cultures, promotes responsible reporting, and supports the professional growth of media practitioners.
In addition to her executive role, Al Mulla is a respected advocate for media innovation, youth empowerment, and the integration of new technologies in journalism. She frequently engages in regional and international forums, highlighting the UAE's leadership in media development and the importance of fostering dialogue in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Beyond her work at the Dubai Press Club, Al Mulla contributes to broader efforts in nation-building and knowledge-sharing through her participation in strategic initiatives that advance the UAE's global reputation. She is recognized as a strong voice for women in leadership, inspiring the next generation of Emirati professionals to pursue careers in media, communication, and public engagement.