Thirty Emirati women from different generations of the healthcare sector came together aboard Etihad Rail for a special leadership journey ahead of Emirati Women’s Day.

Organised by Burjeel Holdings in collaboration with Etihad Rail, the initiative brought doctors, nurses, clinicians, healthcare leaders and professionals from administrative and support roles together for a journey between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.

The programme featured leadership discussions, networking and intergenerational conversations focused on career development, resilience, national contribution and the changing opportunities available to Emirati women.

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H.E. Dr. Farida Al Ali, Assistant Undersecretary for National Talent Empowerment at the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, joined the journey and shared perspectives from her leadership experience, highlighting the expanding role of Emirati women in the UAE workforce and healthcare sector.

“Healthcare is built by people with very different skills, but with one shared purpose. On this journey, we brought together Emirati doctors, nurses, clinicians, leaders, and colleagues from administrative functions whose careers span different generations. Their stories show how far opportunities for Emirati women have progressed and, more importantly, how every generation is helping create the next set of opportunities. Seeing these conversations take place so naturally across generations was one of the most meaningful aspects of the journey,” said Dr. Tahani Al Qadiri, Associate Vice President – Burjeel Training Academy.

The initiative also highlighted the contributions of women working beyond clinical roles, including administration, operations and patient services. The journey served as a platform for mentorship and knowledge exchange, reinforcing the importance of connecting generations and creating opportunities for future Emirati women in healthcare.

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“When we began our careers, Emirati women were rarely seen in many healthcare specialties. Today, it is inspiring to see the next generation stepping forward with confidence and ambition,” said Dr. Aysha Almahri, CEO – Al Ain Region, Burjeel Holdings.

Sara Alkatheeri, Nutritionist at Burjeel Medical City (BMC), reflected on how the determination and achievements of the Emirati women who came before her paved the way for the next generation. “Today, we have the confidence to dream bigger because the women before us broke barriers and proved what was possible. Their legacy motivates us to keep raising the bar and contribute meaningfully to the future of healthcare in the UAE,” she said.