From astronauts to politicians, the UAE’s female citizens are only gaining more ground

From astronauts to politicians, the UAE’s female citizens are only gaining more ground

ABU DHABI - The UAE has the rare characteristic of being a country that is younger than some of its own citizens. The culture is old, but the nation is new. Just more than 50 years old, steering it has been an immense responsibility. But it has also brought great opportunities.

Emirati Women's Day, which is today, is a good moment to reflect on this intriguing aspect of the country's story, according to an editorial published by The National on Sunday.

The Abu Dhabi-based English daily wrote in its daily comment that:''As such a young country, the UAE has had the chance to shape a society that learnt from this past. Progress is constant. It is also very tangible in 2022.

Last week, The National wrote about Aisha Al Mansoori, the first Emirati woman to become a captain at Etihad Airways, the national carrier. It is a great technical achievement, but also one on a deeper, personal level. Ms Al Mansoori was fulfilling a dream close to her heart. "When I first saw aircraft and pilots, I just fell in love. I knew that is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life."

The determination this required should not be forgotten.