Emirati scientist Dr. Shaikha Al Dhaheri: Shaping the environment and paving the way for women

Dr. Shaikha Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, shared her professional journey with The National, reflecting on her early days as a pioneering female field scientist. In 2000, at the age of 22, she was often the only woman on expeditions across Abu Dhabi’s deserts and wetlands. Despite facing cultural resistance regarding women working in the field, she persisted, bolstered by the support of her family and the UAE leadership.

An agricultural science graduate, Dr. Al Dhaheri began her career as an assistant researcher, working alongside international experts to study Abu Dhabi’s ecosystems. She recalls that while she initially felt her local background gave her an inherent understanding of the landscape, she soon realized the necessity of rigorous scientific study to truly comprehend the environment.

She credits her father as a primary champion who encouraged her to enter this nascent field. She also expressed appreciation for her husband’s support during her postgraduate studies in Britain, noting his assistance in collecting field data. Dr. Al Dhaheri emphasizes that the vision of the late UAE Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and the unwavering support of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, were instrumental in integrating women into the workforce and nation-building.

More than two decades later, Dr. Al Dhaheri observes a transformed landscape with Emirati women now active as scientists, divers, and climate policymakers. Emphasizing the responsibility of her generation to mentor those who follow, she encourages young women to unleash their hidden potential and strive for even greater achievements in the future.