When is Emirati Women’s Day 2024? Everything You Need To Know

With almost two weeks to go, Harper’s Bazaar Arabia shares everything you need to know about the special day that celebrates UAE females here

Every year as August rolls around UAE nationals and residents begin counting down the days to August 28 – a date when the whole nation celebrates the formidable women what have shaped the Emirates and will continue to do so in the years to come.

In honour of 2024’s Emirati Women’s Day Harper’s Bazaar Arabia answers all your question about this special occasion, including how to celebrate and whether or not its considered a public holiday, here.

Emirati Women’s Day 2024: Everything You Need To Know

When was Emirati Women’s Day founded?

Emirati Women’s Day was founded in 2015 by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Al Ketbi, wife of His Highness Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. She is often referred to as the Mother of the Nation and played a pivotal role in shaping the history of the UAE.

What is Emirati Women’s Day?

It’s a time of celebration, a day to honour the formidable Emirati women – and to celebrate their achievements while reflecting on the important role they’ve played within the UAE’s history. Like International Women’s Day events are held throughout the UAE in honour of their contribution to society.

Many businesses offer special packages to their female Emirati clientele in the lead up to the day, with some unveiling exclusive products or gifts with purchase – although the day is mean to be a time for celebration among family and friends, honouring the Emirati women in one’s life.

When is Emirati Women’s Day?

Emirati Women’s Day is celebrated on August 28, which will be a Wednesday this year.

What is 2024’s Emirati Women’s Day theme?

This year’s theme has yet to be announced, although it typically aligns with the overarching values of the UAE and a sense of unity among women. Past years’ themes include “We Collaborate for Tomorrow” (2023), “Inspiring Reality… Sustainable Future” (2022) and “Women: Ambitions & Inspiration for Next 50 Years” (2022).

Is Emirati Women’s Day a public holiday?

While Emirati Women’s Day is not an official public holiday in the UAE, many companies offer perks to their female Emirati employees on this special day (a day off is at the discretion of the employer.)

Therefore, the public and private sector workers do not have the day off.

How To Celebrate Emirati Women’s Day 2024

Shop local, Emirati-owned brands when gifting.

If you’re looking to gift something special on Emirati Women’s Day, consider making your purchase from a local brand. Harper’s Bazaar Arabia shares a list of Emirati brands to shop here, along with 12 UAE-based jewellery brands here.

Read about their stories.

From Emirati royals like Her Highness Sheikha Mahra Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, to past Bazaar cover stars like Hamda Al Fahim, Alia Al Mur and Afra Al Dhaheri; Amna Al Qubaisi; Salama Al Shamsi, Latifa Al Gurg, Alia Al Shamsi, Hala Al Gergawi, Noora Shawqi and Mouza Aldhaher, enriching one’s self by learning more about Emirati women, from their own words, is an excellent way to spend the day.

Or read Aida Al Busaidy’s latest column for Bazaar Arabia here.

Attend an exhibition with friends.

From spa days to exhibitions, there will be plenty of events and things to do on Emirati Women’s Day.

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi is planning to unveil a truly special exhibition. Having partnered with the Fatima Bint Mohamed Bin Zayed Initiative (FBMI), the hotel plans to showcase female artistry while also offering culinary and wellness packages, and day passes for those who want to treat themselves.

For more information visit Emirates Palace

Or, simply, message your Emirati female friends and family members wish them a Happy Emirati Women’s Day.

Sometimes a WhatsApp or phone call is the best gift anyone can receive.

Lead image credits: Hamda al Fahim shot by Greg Adamski at The Museum of the Future for Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s December 2022 issue. Editor in Chief: Olivia Phillips. Art Director: Oscar Yáñez. Senior Fashion Editor: Nour Bou Ezz. Senior Producer: Steff Hawker. Hair and Make-Up: Jazmin Lois Rodriguez. Photographer’s Assistants: Alireza Yahoozadeh and Mark Offemaria. Hair and Make-Up Assistant: Sabiha Perween. Fashion Assistant: Amelie Louisa Klewe.