Emirati Women’s Day is celebrated on the 28th of August every year to shed light on the infinite accomplishments of Emirati women across the country. The UAE believes that Emirati women have the capabilities and aspirations to reach new levels of greatness and success. Throughout the years, Emirati women have proven that obstacles may stand in their way, but it will never stop them from continuing to fight for their passions. From combating stereotypes and driving diversity in her chosen sport, we sit down with Zahra Lari, the first Emirati figure skater and five-time Emirati National Champion to discuss her inspiring journey of how she achieved her dreams.

Zahra Lari is not only the first Emirati figure skater but a five-time Emirati National Champion. Speaking to Ounass, she remembers how she first discovered her passion for the sport, aged just 12. Likening figure skating to a form of art on ice, Zahra explains how much fitness and strength is required, but it was the form of storytelling through movement that made her fall in love with ice skating at such a young age. However, it has not been the easiest of journeys as she draws on the lack of local awareness on the nature of her sport, resulting in backlash from her society on not only being the first hijabi skater, but Arab woman and Emirati in her field. Despite that, it was these obstacles that made her more determined to accomplish the impossible and gave her the push she needed to reach the esteemed level of greatness she has achieved for herself and her country. Feeling nothing but pride while carrying the Emirati flag and singing the national anthem during national competitions, Zahra Lari could not be prouder of her heritage.

Despite the challenges, it was other Emirati women’s success stories that gave Zahra the motivation and endless support to achieve her goals, as well as her mother’s encouragement, she recalls. From attending early morning practices to cheering from the sidelines, endless love and backing are the foundation to her success.

To every Emirati woman, May you always be the pride of our nation.