ICBA marks Emirati Women’s Day with tribute to women’s leadership in sustainability

The International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) marked Emirati Women’s Day with a heartfelt tribute to women’s role in driving sustainability and innovation. Dr. Tarifa Alzaabi, the first Emirati woman to serve as Director General of ICBA, honored the achievements of Emirati women over the past five decades, highlighting the vision and guidance of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation.

Dr. Alzaabi praised the UAE’s enduring commitment to empowering women, describing it as a global model for integrating women into decision-making, policy shaping, and national development initiatives. She emphasized that Emirati women have demonstrated leadership not only at home but also on the international stage.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Alzaabi said: “This year’s Emirati Women’s Day, celebrated under the theme ‘Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years’, reflects a lasting partnership that embodies five decades of empowerment and collective progress. The achievements of Emirati women extend beyond social and economic participation, reaching vital fields such as science, innovation, and sustainability.”

She further highlighted the contributions of Emirati women in advancing food and water security, agricultural innovation, and climate resilience through their work at ICBA. “Every day we witness how Emirati women scientists and researchers are turning empowerment into practical solutions that serve society, align with the UAE’s vision for sustainable development, and reinforce the country’s role as a global hub for agricultural innovation,” she noted.

Concluding her remarks, Dr. Alzaabi stated: “On this national occasion, we celebrate the ability of Emirati women to combine personal ambition with national duty. The UAE’s sustainable and prosperous future will be built on the equal contributions of both women and men, working side by side.”