Abu dhabi: The National Experts Program (NEP) has underscored the increasing role of Emirati women in the UAE's key sectors, with women comprising the majority of experts developed through the program since its inception in 2019. Across four cohorts, NEP has developed 86 Emirati experts, including 44 women, who represent 51 percent of participants. These women contribute across various fields such as science, technology, healthcare, sustainability, public policy, infrastructure, marine science, culture, family services, and food systems.
According to Emirates News Agency, NEP prepares Emirati experts through sector-focused development, executive mentorship, capstone projects linked to national priorities, and direct engagement with senior government leaders. Taif Al Amiri, an NEP expert representing the Media sector, remarked, "NEP strengthened my understanding of what it means to contribute as an expert. It reinforced that expertise carries responsibility, and that every opportunity to serve the UAE is an opportunity to create lasting impact."
Women from the program have also made their mark on international platforms. Professor Hoda Alkhzaimi has contributed to the United Nations, International Telecommunication Union, and World Economic Forum, including its global platforms in Davos. Meanwhile, Waheeda Alhadhrami recently completed the Oxford Cultural Leaders Programme and has represented the UAE in cultural working groups across UNESCO and G20 platforms.
In March 2025, NEP women participated in the program's first panel at the World Government Summit, bringing together experts from technology, sustainability, policy, and future sectors. At COP28, 12 NEP Fellows and Alumni took part in speaking roles, including women experts contributing to discussions on sustainability, innovation, and national priorities.
During the Year of Sustainability 2023, NEP women also joined the Sustainability Experts Network, while at The Behavioural Exchange (BX2025), experts from the NEP 4.0 cohort presented eight behavioral policy solutions, including four projects led by women. Maitha Alkaabi, NEP expert representing the Foreign Affairs sector, emphasized, "Representing the UAE internationally carries a deep sense of responsibility. NEP strengthened my confidence to contribute to global conversations while remaining grounded in the values and ambitions of our country."
NEP women hold significant roles across institutions shaping the UAE's future. Asma Al Azri contributes to family and community policy, while Aisha Harib chairs the Innovation Council at Dubai Police. Nouf Al Hamly is involved in science and advanced technology diplomacy, and Meera Al Mheiri became the first Emirati woman to serve as a Nuclear Safety Inspector at the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation and the first Emirati expert contracted by the International Atomic Energy Agency in safety culture. Additionally, Maryam Al Falasi developed a system redirecting surplus food to people in need, contributing to more than five million meals since 2023.
NEP continues to expand into future-growth sectors, with a specialized Artificial Intelligence track that includes 32 Emirati experts, of which 12 are women. Dr. Asma Fikri, NEP expert representing the Advanced Sciences and the Future Economy sector, stated, "Every generation builds on the one before it. The opportunity before us is to continue strengthening expertise, supporting one another, and preparing the next generation of Emirati women to contribute to the UAE's future."