Voices of Empowerment: Middle Eastern Women FOCUS

Throughout history, Middle Eastern women have been at the forefront of change, challenging norms, advocating for rights, and reshaping societal roles. From politics to architecture, literature to activism, their voices have echoed across generations, inspiring progress and empowerment. These women have faced adversity with resilience, proving that empowerment is not just about opportunity but about the courage to demand it. Their legacies continue to pave the way for future generations, demonstrating that gender equality is an undeniable force of progress. Today, in honour of International Women's Day we look to the wisdom of ten inspiring Middle Eastern women.

Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak

Is a pioneering advocate for women's empowerment in the UAE and beyond. As the "Mother of the Nation," she has championed initiatives that promote education, leadership, and equal opportunities for women, ensuring they play a vital role in shaping a prosperous future. Her vision underscores the belief that when women are empowered, societies flourish, and progress becomes inevitable. Through her unwavering commitment, Sheikha Fatima has paved the way for countless women to rise, lead, and contribute meaningfully to their communities

Queen Rania of Jordan

Has used her global platform to advocate for education and women's empowerment, believing that an educated woman is a force for change. She has worked tirelessly to improve access to quality education, particularly for young girls in the Middle East. With a deep commitment to equality, she once said, "When a woman is educated and empowered, her family will flourish, her community will flourish, and eventually, so will her country." Her initiatives aim to break cycles of poverty and create opportunities for women to lead.

Huda Sha’arawi

One of the most prominent figures in the fight for women’s rights in the Middle East is Huda Sha’arawi (1879–1947), an Egyptian feminist and nationalist. She was a trailblazer in advocating for women's education and political participation. Her public act of unveiling in 1923 was a symbolic rejection of societal restrictions imposed on women. She famously stated, "Freedom cannot be given; it must be taken," a testament to her belief that women must actively claim their rights rather than wait for them to be granted.

Zaha Hadid

Zaha Hadid (1950–2016), the Iraqi-British architect, shattered barriers in a male-dominated industry, becoming one of the most influential designers of the modern era. She was known for her visionary architectural designs and her determination to challenge gender biases. Despite facing resistance, Hadid remained steadfast in her belief that women belonged in all professional fields, declaring, "Women are always told, ‘You’re not going to make it.’ It’s ridiculous. But I like to prove them wrong." Her groundbreaking work continues to inspire women in creative and technical disciplines.

A society that uplifts its women builds a future that is limitless.

- MOD

Nawal El Saadawi

An Egyptian writer, doctor, and activist, spent her life fighting against the oppression of women in the Arab world. She wrote extensively on issues such as female oppression, challenging deeply rooted patriarchal traditions. Her fearless advocacy often put her at odds with authorities, but she remained unwavering in her mission. She famously declared, "They said, ‘You are a savage and dangerous woman.’ I am speaking the truth. And the truth is savage and dangerous." Her work continues to inspire feminists and activists globally | Image of Nawal El Saadawi

As Mohammad Alhouri, co-founder of MOD DESIGN EVENTS, aptly puts it, "A society that uplifts its women builds a future that is limitless." The words and actions of these remarkable women have shaped history and continue to inspire future generations. Whether in politics, design, education, or activism, their legacies remind us of the importance of empowerment and equality. Browse these quotes from ten empowering Middle Eastern women (below), and let their words serve as a catalyst for progress and change.