TravTalk celebrates Emirati Women’s Day

TravTalk, along with SLS Dubai, organised a special event to celebrate Emirati Women’s Day, which was attended by 80 key women leaders from the industry. Suaad Al Suwaidi, first Emirati and Arabic female wildlife photographer, was the Chief Guest, while the Guest of Honour was Her Excellency Laila Rahha El Atfani, Goodwill Ambassador and President & Founder of Business Gate and Woman Circle.

Dr Shehara Rizly

Her Excellency Laila Rahha El Atfani, Goodwill Ambassador and the President/ Founder of Business Gate and Woman Circle, started off with the opening remarks at the event speaking on the importance of Emirati Women’s Day. She was followed by the Chief Guest, Suaad Al Suwaidi, the first Emirati and Arabic female wildlife photographer. Seychelles Tourism, Tourism Malaysia and McArthurGlen Designer Outlet were the platinum partners. An interesting session kicked off with Clinical Dietician Mitun De Sarkar, who spoke on ‘The Social media dilemma – navigating body image, self-worth and authenticity’.

In the opening speech, Her Excellency Laila Rahha El Atfani said, “Emirati women are in the forefront today in every field because of the support and vision of the leadership to ensure that education is provided in every field. Emirati women played a pivotal role over the past few years as leaders of Expo, COP28 etc to name a few.” Al Suwaidi reiterated, “UAE has empowered us as women. Today, I travel around the world with my camera because of the support of our great nation. I have been able to carry the UAE flag to the world, exploring different destinations.”

The panel session was moderated by Buthaina bin Fahad, CEO/ Owner of Experience Tourism, who shared some valuable notes on the new generation. “Younger generation is focused on enjoying their work than the generation before, as they are exposed to more opportunities,” she said.

Suhaila Ghubash, VP – Events and Festivals, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (a part of Dubai Economy and Tourism), spoke on the strength of Dubai tourism. “Dubai is focused on the big picture; on the impact of tourism in the economy. As a tourism entity, Dubai is exceptional, ensuring that its top spot is maintained with diverse campaigns,”
Ghubash said.

Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure, dnata Travel, shared views on the impact of travel and tourism industry in the Middle East. “The valuation of this industry in the Middle East is almost $500 billion in 2024. And in the Middle East specifically, the contribution of the GDP from tourism is 11.7 per cent,” Ketait said.

Hessa Ali Alechla, Manager Retail, Emirates Airline; Maya Ziade, Chief Development Officer Premium, Midscale and Economy Division Middle East, Africa & Turkey, Accor, and
Sylvia Melika, Director of People Culture, SLS Dubai, were also among those who spoke on
the occasion.