With Afghan schools closed to girls, what does Islam really say about empowering women? – The National

With Afghan schools closed to girls, what does Islam really say about empowering women? – The National

After six months of connecting minds, ideas and people from around the world, Expo 2020 Dubai closed its gates in triumph last week. With the end of this global exhibition, one clear idea formulated in my mind: this project was led by a woman.

Reem Al Hashimy, the UAE Minister of State for International Co-operation, led this giant project from planning to execution, attracting more than 20 million visits, including many from world leaders. She was present on-site throughout, managing the event to the smallest detail. I saw her welcome visitors, attend events and even drive a golf cart around the vast Expo site. Such dedication and success was only possible with the full trust and support of Dubai and the UAE’s leadership; this was the very definition of women’s empowerment.