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Emirati sculptor Mattar bin Lahej and global contemporary artist eL Seed will explore how visual storytelling transcends borders during a featured session at the Arab Youth Media Forum, part of the Arab Media Summit 2026 in Dubai.

DUBAI — Two artists known for turning Arabic calligraphy into monumental public works will take center stage at the Arab Media Summit this September, offering a fresh perspective on how art can bridge cultures and tell human stories without words.

The Dubai Press Club announced today that Mattar bin Lahej, a prominent Emirati artist working across painting, photography, design and sculpture, and eL Seed, a French-Tunisian artist whose murals span from the Pyramids of Giza to the Korean Demilitarized Zone, will co-host a session titled “The Power of Art in Storytelling.” The discussion is scheduled for September 15–17 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The Art of Connection

Both artists have built careers on using Arabic script as a visual language that speaks beyond linguistic barriers. For bin Lahej, whose public installations include the “Power of Words” sculptures at Qasr Al Watan and the calligraphic facade of the Museum of the Future, art functions as a dialogue starter. His work often examines the tension between tradition and modernity, asking viewers to reconsider how identity is shaped by heritage in a rapidly changing world.

eL Seed, meanwhile, describes his practice as “using language as a bridge.” His large-scale murals and sculptures frequently explore themes of unity, coexistence and cultural memory. Works such as the “Perception” mural in Cairo’s Manshiyat Naser district—visible only from a specific vantage point—demonstrate his signature approach: embedding messages that reward the attentive viewer. His pieces are held in the collections of The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Why Art Matters in Media

The session arrives at a time when media organizations increasingly recognize visual storytelling as a tool for engagement. According to the Dubai Press Club, the Arab Media Summit—now in its 24th year—aims to spark conversations about innovation in journalism, digital content and cultural communication.

“Art transcends boundaries,” said a press club spokesperson in a statement. “When words fail, images and symbols carry meaning. These two artists prove that a single calligraphic stroke can tell a story as powerfully as a headline.”

What Attendees Can Expect

The discussion will cover:

• How public art creates shared spaces for cross-cultural dialogue
• The role of calligraphy in preserving heritage while embracing contemporary forms
• Practical insights for media professionals on integrating visual storytelling into their work

Bin Lahej and eL Seed are expected to share behind-the-scenes looks at their most ambitious projects, including the technical and logistical challenges of creating art on a monumental scale.

Broader Implications

As the Middle East invests heavily in cultural tourism and creative industries, sessions like this highlight a growing recognition that artists are essential narrators of regional stories. The summit’s focus on art-as-storytelling signals a shift for media professionals: the next great story may not be written—it may be sculpted, painted or spray-painted on a wall.

For media professionals, content creators and cultural enthusiasts, this session offers a rare chance to hear from two artists who have mastered the art of saying more with less—proving that a single letter, writ large enough, can speak to everyone.

The Arab Media Summit 2026 runs from September 15–17 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Registration is open via the Dubai Press Club website.

The Arab Media Summit 2026 has secured a marquee keynote speaker: His Excellency Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, will address the 24th edition of the event, organizers announced this week. The summit is set to convene in Dubai from September 15 to 17, 2026.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the gathering also follows directives from His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council. The inclusion of AlBudaiwi, organizers say, underscores the summit’s focus on the intersection of media and regional geopolitics.

Her Excellency Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, President of the Dubai Press Club, and Chairperson of the Arab Media Summit Organising Committee, welcomed the announcement. She noted that AlBudaiwi’s extensive diplomatic experience and broad perspective on regional and global developments will enrich the summit’s conversations.

“The GCC represents a powerful model of regional coordination, integration, and joint action,” Al Marri said in a statement. “Media plays an essential role in supporting these efforts, and engaging with a senior political figure of His Excellency’s stature brings valuable perspectives to our discussions on the future of media amid a rapidly changing landscape.”

The Arab Media Summit 2026 arrives at a pivotal time. Geopolitical shifts, technological disruption, and the rise of AI-driven content are reshaping how news is produced and consumed across the Middle East. AlBudaiwi’s participation signals an effort to bridge high-level policy dialogue with media strategy.

The three-day program will feature a range of specialized events designed for industry professionals and emerging talent. Confirmed platforms include the Arab Media Forum, the Government Communication Forum, the Arab Youth Media Forum, the Arab Social Media Influencers Summit, the Films Forum, the Games Forum, and the Dubai PodFest. International media forums will also run concurrently, broadening the summit’s global reach.

For attendees, the summit offers a rare chance to hear directly from one of the region’s most influential diplomatic figures on topics such as media’s role in fostering stability, the digital transformation of public communication, and cross-border cooperation.

What’s next: Registration details for the Arab Media Summit 2026 are expected to open in the coming months. Industry professionals, media students, and content creators can monitor the Dubai Press Club’s official channels for updates and speaker additions. With AlBudaiwi confirmed, this year’s edition promises to set the agenda for media’s role in an interconnected, fast-evolving Arab world.

Emirati Women’s Day, traditionally observed on August 28, has been expanded into a full month of reflection and inspiration throughout the United Arab Emirates in 2026, with Her Highness Sheikha Latifa Bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum leading a call to honor the nation’s women as architects of its global identity. The theme, “We Emerge Stronger and Better,” frames a celebration that extends beyond a single day into weeks of programming designed to amplify women’s voices and spotlight their contributions across every sector of society.

A Month of Reflection and Inspiration

The expansion from a one-day observance to a month-long initiative marks a significant shift in how the UAE acknowledges the role of women in its national story. The theme “We Emerge Stronger and Better” reflects the resilience demonstrated by Emirati women, particularly in the wake of global challenges, and serves as a call to continue building on the foundations laid by previous generations.

Sheikha Latifa, in her remarks marking the occasion, emphasized that this year’s celebration honors the vision of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, widely recognized as the Mother of the Nation. “Her belief in Emirati women lives on through every woman who serves her community, pursues her ambitions and opens new paths for those who follow,” Sheikha Latifa noted. The statement underscores a multigenerational commitment to gender advancement that has become a hallmark of the UAE’s development strategy.

Heritage Meets Ambition

Central to the message is the idea that Emirati women are crafting narratives that bridge the country’s rich heritage with forward-looking imagination. Sheikha Latifa described these efforts as “stories that carry our national voice to the world,” positioning women not merely as participants in the nation’s progress but as its primary storytellers and cultural ambassadors.

This framing aligns with data from the UAE Gender Balance Council, which reports that women now hold 50 percent of seats in the Federal National Council and represent 56 percent of government sector graduates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields. The personal journeys of these women, Sheikha Latifa argued, become shared progress when “supported by families, communities and institutions that believe in their potential.”

Carrying the Legacy Forward

The celebration carries an explicit call to action for the next generation. Sheikha Latifa urged the nation to “listen to their experiences, support the ambitions of young girls and create opportunities for every woman to contribute with confidence.” This focus on intergenerational responsibility positions Emirati Women’s Day as both a tribute to past achievements and a strategic investment in future leadership.

The broader implications extend beyond national borders. As the UAE continues to position itself as a global hub for innovation, diplomacy, and commerce, the visibility of its women on international stages—from science labs to diplomatic missions—serves as a soft-power asset that reinforces the country’s narrative of modernization balanced with cultural preservation.

What Happens Next

Throughout the month, events across the seven emirates are expected to include panel discussions, mentorship programs, and showcases of women-led enterprises. For readers interested in participating or learning more, local cultural councils and women’s empowerment organizations such as the Dubai Women Establishment offer calendars of public events. The message from Sheikha Latifa remains clear: “We honour the women who came before us by believing in those who come next, carrying forward a legacy of strength rooted in identity, enriched by unity and open to the possibilities of tomorrow.”

Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi reflected on her groundbreaking career and the enduring legacy of Emirati women during the second Emirati Women’s Forum in Dubai on August 28, marking Emirati Women’s Day.

Her Excellency Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi, the United Arab Emirates’ first female Cabinet minister, addressed a plenary session at Madinat Jumeirah, organized by the Dubai Women Establishment. Drawing from decades of government and diplomatic service, she traced the evolution of women’s roles in the UAE—from traditional family caregivers to architects of national policy—and urged Emirati women to safeguard cultural identity while continuing to drive the nation’s development.

A Historic Appointment

Sheikha Lubna’s appointment as Minister of Economy in 2004 shattered regional and global assumptions about Arab women in leadership. Speaking to attendees, she described the milestone as a moment that “challenged prevailing perceptions” of women’s capabilities across the Middle East and beyond.

“Women’s success in the UAE begins with trust, followed by opportunity and empowerment, and the support needed to fulfill their responsibilities and overcome challenges,” she said.

Transitioning from the private sector to lead a ministry of approximately 1,200 employees, Sheikha Lubna credited the backing of the UAE’s leadership and fellow Cabinet members for giving her the confidence to assume her new duties. The strong institutional support, she noted, has remained a hallmark of the country’s approach to gender equity.

Beyond the Cabinet: Historical Roots of Empowerment

The former minister emphasized that women’s contributions to Emirati society long predate the formation of the UAE in 1971. Historically, women managed households, raised children, and sustained communities while men were away for work, effectively serving as the “backbone of the family” and shaping future generations of leaders.

She pointed out that Emirati women had already established themselves in medicine, engineering, and technology before entering politics and senior leadership roles. Their ascent to ministerial positions, she argued, marked a new chapter in a journey that had evolved over decades, not a sudden shift.

Preserving Identity for Future Generations

During her address, Sheikha Lubna stressed that maintaining Emirati identity and transmitting national values to younger generations is a shared responsibility involving leadership, families, communities, and educational institutions. She identified the family as the primary influence in shaping children’s character and called on Emirati women to continue instilling a sense of responsibility, belonging, and patriotism.

“Emirati women play a central role in safeguarding national identity and values while contributing to the UAE’s development and future,” she said.

The forum comes as the UAE continues to rank among the top Arab nations for women’s empowerment, with women holding two-thirds of public-sector jobs and occupying nine seats in the Federal National Council. Sheikha Lubna’s remarks reinforce a broader national narrative: that gender parity is not merely a policy goal but a foundational element of the country’s identity.

Looking Ahead

As the UAE pushes toward its centennial goals, Sheikha Lubna’s message serves as both a reflection and a roadmap. The nation’s investment in women’s education, entrepreneurship, and political participation—rooted in the leadership’s early confidence in women’s potential—appears poised to expand.

For Emirati women, the path forward involves balancing professional ambition with the preservation of cultural heritage—a duality that the former minister embodied throughout her trailblazing career.

In a move designed to accelerate women-led business growth, the Dubai Women Establishment (DWE) has partnered with LinkedIn to grant 500 selected female entrepreneurs and business owners complimentary access to LinkedIn Learning during the Emirati Women’s Forum (EWF) 2026. Registration opens through a dedicated LinkedIn platform, with successful applicants receiving six months of free access from September 2026 to March 2027. The initiative aims to sharpen leadership, digital, and entrepreneurial skills, while strengthening Dubai’s broader innovation ecosystem.

A Targeted Upskilling Opportunity

The online program, delivered entirely through LinkedIn’s learning platform, gives participants access to more than 26,000 courses and learning pathways developed by thousands of industry experts. Content ranges from business strategy and technology to creative skills and leadership development. The goal, according to DWE, is to help women entrepreneurs “identify new opportunities in a rapidly evolving business environment” while building sustainable ventures.

This partnership reflects DWE’s ongoing commitment to forging strategic alliances that create practical learning avenues for women. It also aligns with Dubai’s broader economic priorities, which emphasize entrepreneurship, innovation, and a digitally fluent workforce.

Who Can Apply?

The offer targets women entrepreneurs and business owners based in the UAE, with a particular focus on those attending or participating in EWF 2026. While the DWE has not released detailed eligibility criteria, interested individuals can register through the dedicated LinkedIn platform linked to the forum. Given the limited number of spots—500 total—early registration is advisable.

Why This Matters

Women-led businesses in the UAE have been growing steadily, yet access to affordable, high-quality professional development remains a hurdle. By providing free LinkedIn Learning access, this initiative removes a financial barrier and opens the door to on-demand training that can be tailored to each entrepreneur’s specific needs.

LinkedIn Learning’s library includes courses on data analysis, digital marketing, financial management, and artificial intelligence—skills increasingly critical for small business owners navigating a post-pandemic economy. The six-month window allows participants to take multiple courses, earn certificates, and apply new knowledge in real time.

Broader Impact and Next Steps

The DWE-LinkedIn collaboration is more than a temporary perk—it signals a growing recognition that continuous learning is essential for economic resilience. For the UAE, which has set ambitious targets under its Vision 2031 strategy, equipping women entrepreneurs with digital and leadership skills helps build a more diversified, knowledge-based economy.

Entrepreneurs interested in the program should monitor the EWF 2026 announcement pages and the DWE’s official channels for registration deadlines. Meanwhile, those who miss the cutoff can explore LinkedIn Learning’s free trial options or seek alternative local programs through the Dubai Entrepreneurship Academy or the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprise Development.

Actionable Takeaway: If you’re a female entrepreneur in the UAE, mark your calendar for the Emirati Women’s Forum 2026 registration period. Prepare a brief business profile to highlight how free access to LinkedIn Learning would support your venture—and apply as soon as the platform goes live.

Lede

The Dubai Women Establishment (DWE) has signed a memorandum of understanding with DIB Academy, the learning arm of the Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB), to accelerate women’s empowerment across the emirate. The agreement, inked at the Emirati Women’s Forum 2026 on the occasion of Emirati Women’s Day, aims to expand cooperation in knowledge exchange, capacity building, and leadership development for female employees.

Background and Signing

The MoU was formalized by Naeema Ahli, CEO of the Dubai Women Establishment, and Rafia Al Abbar, Senior Vice President and Head of Human Resources at DIB. The ceremony took place on the sidelines of the Emirati Women’s Forum, held under the theme “We Emerge Stronger and Better.” The partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing gender balance and institutional performance in both the public and private sectors.

Core Objectives

The agreement establishes a structured framework for collaboration in several key areas:

• Empowerment and gender balance: Both organizations will work to support and empower women, with a focus on elevating their roles in the workforce.
• Knowledge and research exchange: DWE and DIB Academy will share studies, research, and expertise to inform best practices in women’s development.
• Training and development: Female employees will gain access to specialized workshops, forums, conferences, and local and international training programs.
• Leadership skill-building: Joint initiatives will target personal, professional, and leadership competencies, helping women advance into senior positions.

Expert Insights and Human Impact

Rafia Al Abbar emphasized that the partnership aligns with DIB’s broader strategy to foster an inclusive workplace. “Investing in women’s professional growth is not just a social imperative—it is a strategic advantage,” she said. Naeema Ahli echoed this, noting that the MoU will “create concrete pathways for Emirati women to thrive in diverse fields, from finance to public administration.”

The agreement also calls for tapping into a network of trainers, consultants, and specialists, ensuring that programs are grounded in real-world expertise. For female employees, this means access to mentorship and skills training that can directly impact career trajectories.

Broader Implications

This partnership dovetails with the Government of Dubai’s strategic priorities, which emphasize women’s full participation across all sectors. By leveraging DIB Academy’s financial-sector expertise and DWE’s policy experience, the collaboration could serve as a model for other institutions seeking to close gender gaps.

Next Steps

Both parties plan to roll out initial workshops and pilot programs within the next quarter, with a focus on leadership coaching and technical upskilling. Long-term metrics will track participation rates, promotion outcomes, and employee satisfaction. For women in Dubai, the move signals a continued institutional commitment to turning empowerment pledges into measurable progress.

Related Reading

• How Dubai’s Gender Balance Council is reshaping workplace policies
• Emirati Women’s Day: Key milestones in the UAE’s gender parity journey
• Corporate training programs that actually boost female leadership

The 2026 Arab Media Summit, scheduled for Sept. 15-17 at Dubai World Trade Centre, will double as a silver jubilee celebration for the Arab Media Award, honoring a quarter-century of elevating journalistic standards across the region. The landmark gathering, held under the patronage of UAE Vice President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, will spotlight the award’s evolution from a single-category journalism prize into a comprehensive platform recognizing print, visual, and digital media.

The Arab Media Award was launched in November 1999 as the Arab Journalism Award, a direct initiative from Sheikh Mohammed aimed at transforming regional media through professional excellence and innovation. Originally focused solely on print, the award expanded in 2021 to encompass three main sectors—Arab Journalism, Visual Media, and Digital Media—reflecting rapid changes in how news is produced and consumed. Over 25 years, it has attracted more than 82,460 entries from across the Arab world, with 359 winners or honorees receiving a combined AED22.1 million in prizes.

“Guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the award was launched 25 years ago as one of Dubai’s most significant initiatives to promote media excellence in the Arab world,” said Her Excellency Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, President of the Dubai Press Club, and Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Arab Media Award. “We feel extremely proud and honored by what the award has achieved over this period, celebrating magnificent accomplishments and recognizing prominent media and intellectual figures.”

The award’s structure has proven durable. Its Board of Directors, composed of 116 of the region’s most experienced media, academic, and cultural figures over eight terms, has maintained standards of integrity, objectivity, and excellence. Dr. Maitha Buhumaid, Secretary-General of the Arab Media Award Board, described the silver jubilee as “a moment to reflect on a journey steeped in the profound values and achievements of media professionals, institutions, and experts from across the Arab world.”

Evolution alongside industry shifts

Maryam Al Mulla, Director of Dubai Press Club, noted the award’s ability to adapt. “The award has successfully kept pace with the rapid transformations witnessed by the sector—from print journalism to visual media, digital platforms and content creation—while remaining true to its core values and central mission of recognizing creativity and supporting Arab talent.”

The 33 current categories span specialized fields, reflecting the award’s role as a barometer of regional media trends. Organizers emphasize the broader mission: media as a constructive force for societal development. The award’s founding concept positioned journalists as “ambassadors of the Arab world” whose expertise could inspire social responsibility and positive impact.

This year’s summit, the region’s largest media gathering, will feature panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities centered on professional, technological, and ethical challenges facing the industry. Attendees can expect sessions addressing artificial intelligence’s role in newsrooms, the sustainability of independent journalism, and strategies for combating misinformation.

Broader significance

The 25-year milestone comes as Arab media confronts unprecedented disruption—from the collapse of traditional advertising models to the rise of algorithm-driven content distribution. The award’s sustained participation numbers suggest resilience: 82,460 entries over two and a half decades, with 359 winners emerging. Organizers frame the anniversary not as an endpoint but as a launchpad for the next phase.

“It is a testament to the evolution of Arab media,” Al Mulla said. The challenge now, as the sector continues to fragment and consolidate simultaneously, will be maintaining relevance while upholding the journalistic integrity that defines the award’s legacy. For attendees, the September summit offers a rare opportunity to benchmark their work against the best in the region—and to chart a course for the next 25 years.

Gangneung, a coastal city about 2.5 hours from Seoul by KTX train, offers dramatically different experiences depending on the season—from cherry blossom walks in spring to summer beach parties, autumn coffee crawls, and winter sunrise spectacles. The key to a successful trip lies in aligning your visit with what the city does best during each time of year.

Spring (March to May): Cherry Blossoms and Comfortable Weather

Spring delivers some of Gangneung’s most pleasant conditions, with daytime temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C. Gyeongpo Lake, ringed with cherry trees, becomes a prime spot for walking and cycling when blossoms peak in early April. Crowds are notably lighter than in summer, making it easier to snag restaurant tables and explore attractions like Ojukheon House without queues.

This season also suits hiking in Odaesan National Park, where trails avoid summer humidity and winter snow. Pack layers, though—coastal winds can linger into April.

Summer (June to August): Beaches and Festival Energy

Summer is peak season, and for good reason. Gyeongpo Beach and Anmok Beach swarm with visitors from late June through August, drawn by warm waters, beach volleyball, and a strip of cafes lining the sand. Average highs hit 25°C to 30°C, with humidity that can feel heavier than the thermometer suggests.

July and August overlap with monsoon season, so expect some rainy days mixed with sunshine. If swimming and sunbathing are priorities, this is the window—but book accommodations early. Hotels in Gangneung fill fast, and prices spike, especially on weekends when day-trippers from Seoul pour in.

Fall (September to November): Coffee Culture and Comfortable Crowds

Many repeat visitors consider fall the sweet spot. Temperatures cool to a pleasant 15°C to 23°C, summer crowds thin, and Anmok Coffee Street becomes ideal for slow afternoons hopping between roasteries with ocean views. Gangneung has earned a reputation as a coffee town, and autumn light along the coast enhances that unhurried vibe.

October brings the Gangneung Coffee Festival, typically held early in the month, drawing roasters and enthusiasts for tastings and workshops. Fall foliage in Odaesan National Park peaks in mid-to-late October, giving hikers another reason to visit. Rainfall drops sharply compared to summer, and skies stay clear for longer stretches.

Winter (December to February): Snow, Sunrise, and Fewer Tourists

Winter is Gangneung’s quiet season, but it holds appeal for the right traveler. Temperatures hover between -5°C and 5°C, with snow occasionally dusting the coastline—a striking contrast against the East Sea. Jeongdongjin, just outside the city, is famous for sunrise views and gets busy around New Year’s Day, when visitors gather before dawn to see the year’s first light.

The city retains infrastructure from the 2018 Winter Olympics, including the Gangneung Ice Arena, which still hosts skating events and public sessions. Hotel rates drop noticeably compared to summer, and popular spots feel relaxed. The tradeoff: colder beach walks and shorter daylight hours.

Matching Your Trip to Your Priorities

• For beaches and lively energy: Summer delivers, despite crowds and higher prices.
• For coffee, comfort, and foliage: Fall is hard to beat.
• For quiet, mild days with cherry blossoms: Spring works well.
• For sunrise, snow, or lower costs: Winter suits travelers seeking solitude.

Weekday visits are noticeably calmer than weekends, since Gangneung draws heavy day-trip traffic from Seoul. Book transportation and lodging at least a few weeks ahead for summer and major holidays like Chuseok or New Year’s, when trains and accommodations sell out quickly.

The real answer depends less on a single “best” month and more on your priorities. Fall offers the strongest all-around choice for a first visit—balancing good weather, manageable crowds, and standout local experiences like the coffee festival. But Gangneung rewards travelers in every season, as long as your plans align with what that time of year does best.

The Dubai Women Establishment (DWE) has announced the official partners for the second edition of the Emirati Women’s Forum 2026, set to take place on August 27 at Madinat Jumeirah. The event, held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Gender Balance Council and President of DWE, coincides with the nation’s Emirati Women’s Day celebrations, themed “We Emerge Stronger and Better.”

Registration is now open for attendees who wish to participate in panel discussions and activations, accessible through the official forum portal.

A Collaborative Vision for Empowerment

The forum represents a strategic collaboration between DWE and a diverse range of government, semi-government, and private-sector organizations. These partnerships underscore a unified commitment to fostering an environment where women can thrive across industries and disciplines, ultimately strengthening the UAE’s global competitiveness.

Organizers have positioned the forum as a platform to spotlight Emirati women’s contributions to comprehensive national development, particularly in specialized and future-focused fields. Senior officials, decision-makers, and business leaders will gather for workshops and discussions examining policies and initiatives that support the UAE’s long-term vision.

Key Partners and Their Roles

The partnership structure reflects a multi-sectoral approach to women’s empowerment:

• Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) – Strategic Partner
• Dubai Culture and Arts Authority – Cultural Partner
• Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) – Key Partner
• Dubai Municipality – Key Partner
• DIB – Key Partner
• Dubai Media Incorporated – Media Partner
• Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) and Dubai Business Women Council – Supporting Partners
• Hills Advertising – Advertising Partner

Voices from the Partnership

His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, emphasized that the Authority’s involvement reflects its dedication to national initiatives highlighting Emirati women’s achievements. He noted the forum provides a vital space for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and inspiring success stories that demonstrate women’s expanding role in the UAE’s development.

“Guided by the vision of the UAE leadership and the continued support of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the ‘Mother of the Nation’, Emirati women have demonstrated their ability to excel and assume responsibility across diverse sectors,” Al Tayer said, pointing to contributions in government, economic development, engineering, technology, transport, infrastructure, sustainability, and innovation.

His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of DEWA, highlighted the forum’s significance during the “Year of the Family,” acknowledging the leadership’s sustained efforts to empower women. He reaffirmed DEWA’s commitment to creating supportive workplaces that enable women to balance professional and family responsibilities while developing their skills.

His Excellency Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, described the forum as a leading platform for advancing women’s empowerment and showcasing the impact of policies founded on equal opportunity and genuine social partnership. He emphasized that Emirati women have achieved success across political, economic, and social fields as a result of the leadership’s forward-looking vision.

Looking Ahead

The Emirati Women’s Forum 2026 builds on a growing momentum across the UAE to accelerate women’s participation in leadership roles and future-focused sectors. As these public-private partnerships deepen, they signal a sustained investment in female talent that positions the UAE as a global model for gender balance and inclusive development. For those interested in attending, registration remains open through the official forum website.

The National University of Dubai (NUD) has appointed Victor Van der Chijs, a veteran higher education leader with more than three decades of international experience, as its inaugural President, signaling a major step forward for the emirate’s ambition to become a global hub for research and innovation. The announcement, made on August 21, 2026, places Van der Chijs at the helm of the university during its foundational phase, tasked with shaping an institution designed to support Dubai’s long-term economic and social strategies.

NUD is being developed as an impact-driven research university that blends a global perspective with Dubai’s unique entrepreneurial spirit. The institution will serve as a cornerstone of the Education 33 (E33) Strategy, which aims to create new pathways for learning, research, and talent development. It will also support the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 by fostering a more diversified, knowledge-based economy, and the Dubai Social Agenda 33 by preparing graduates equipped to enhance societal well-being and quality of life.

A defining appointment for Dubai’s educational vision

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of NUD, emphasized the significance of the appointment. “The appointment of Victor Van der Chijs as the inaugural President of the National University of Dubai marks a defining step in establishing an ambitious academic institution that reflects Dubai’s vision to harness education, research and innovation to shape its future and strengthen its global competitiveness,” he said.

Sheikh Ahmed added that Van der Chijs’s extensive international leadership and proven ability to connect universities with government and the private sector will be invaluable during this foundational phase. “The University will help prepare generations of highly skilled graduates equipped to lead and meet the evolving needs of the future economy, while reinforcing Dubai’s global standing in higher education and scientific research,” he noted.

A leader with cross-sector expertise

Van der Chijs brings a rare combination of academic leadership and private-sector experience. From 2013 to 2021, he served as President of the Executive Board of the University of Twente, a top-200 global institution, where he strengthened its international reputation and advanced entrepreneurship, interdisciplinary research, and knowledge transfer. During the same period, he led the European Consortium of Innovative Universities (2015–2021), helping to build one of Europe’s first pan-European university networks.

His resume also includes high-level roles outside academia. He served as Chairman of Deltalinqs, representing Rotterdam’s industrial and logistics cluster—Europe’s largest port-industrial complex—and as President of the Board of BOM, the Netherlands’ most active regional venture investor. Earlier in his career, he held senior leadership roles at OMA, Schiphol Group, and ING, gaining expertise in architecture, aviation, infrastructure, and global finance.

Building a university from the ground up

Van der Chijs described the opportunity as exceptionally rare. “It is an honour to serve as President of the National University of Dubai and contribute to an institution inspired by Dubai’s ambition and global outlook,” he said. “Together with the Board of Trustees and our partners, I look forward to shaping a university that fosters curiosity, encourages collaboration across disciplines, and creates an environment where education, research and innovation deliver meaningful impact for generations to come.”

During its formative phase, NUD will focus on developing academically rigorous programs, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation, and establishing strategic partnerships with leading institutions worldwide. The university will work closely with government, industry, and international partners to generate new knowledge and equip graduates with skills to shape future industries.

Broader implications for Dubai’s future

Van der Chijs’s appointment underscores Dubai’s broader push to position itself as a destination for top-tier education and research. By building a research university from scratch—one that integrates government, industry, and global academic networks—the emirate aims to create a self-sustaining ecosystem for talent and innovation. The success of NUD will likely serve as a benchmark for other Gulf states seeking to diversify their economies through knowledge-based development, and for international educators watching how a new university can be designed for the 21st century.