One of our favourite Middle East Royals is heading to the UAE with Queen Rania announcing her return to Dubai next month for the Global Women’s Forum.
Queen Rania is heading to Dubai as the keynote speaker for the Global Women’s Forum opening. The royal will be taking the stage with fellow esteemed figures including Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Minister of International Cooperation and Development Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi.
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The historical event, it’s the Middle East’s first-ever women’s forum, is expected to attract more than 2,000 participants from over 70 countries, bringing together men and women from around the world with a common objective — to increase female influence worldwide by outlining concrete plans to encourage women’s contribution to society and promote diversity in all sectors.
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The last time Queen Rania was scheduled as a keynote speaker in Dubai (early last year for the Government Summit 2015), she had to bow out at the last minute following the Islamic State’s brutal murder of Jordanian pilot Lietenant Muath al-Kasabeh. The Queen opted to stay in Jordan and grieve with the rest of her country, organising a martyr march in the lieutenant’s honour.
It’s not sure if Queen Rania will be travelling to Dubai with her family
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A vocal advocate of equality and human rights, Queen Rania has never made light of her aspirations to eradicate female stereotypes, both within the Muslim community and the larger world. She chooses not to wear a veil and once said: “We should judge women according to what’s going on in their heads rather than what’s on top of their heads.”
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Additionally the Queen Rania Foundation for Education and Development promotes the access of education for all young people in Jordan, encouraging female employment. She insists her initiatives in favour of women’s emancipation are well received even in a region where men traditionally determine law and custom.
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The Global Women’s Forum is part of the UAE’s vision to empower women. Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Chairperson of the Board of Dubai Women Establishment (DWE) and Vice President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, said: “Hosting this event in Dubai reflects the importance our leadership has placed on giving women the opportunities they need to develop their careers whilst caring for their families, to build a society capable of achievement and progress.”
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The Global Women’s Forum takes place on February 23 and 24 at Madinat Jumeriah
Words: Jennifer McNeill
