The Gathering Puts Courage, Connection and Wellbeing at the Centre
By Muna Al Sumaiti, Consulting Editor- Lifestyle, Travel, Fashion & Beauty, EmiratesReporter.com
Dubai, UAE – Emirati Women’s Day took on a more personal meaning at The Retreat Palm Dubai – MGallery Collection, where women from different professions, cultures and walks of life gathered for an afternoon built around courage, connection, creativity and wellbeing.
Held on 31 August, the celebration brought together diplomats, entrepreneurs, professionals and inspiring women, creating a space where individual journeys and shared experiences became as important as achievements.
The event was organised by Voyanta Global, RSVCOMMS and Dezigners Studio, with The Retreat Palm Dubai hosting the gathering.
Among the distinguished guests was Her Excellency Dr. Anusha Cooray, Ambassador of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka to the UAE, who delivered the welcome address. Ms. Subashini Silva, Head of Chancery at the Sri Lanka Consulate in Dubai, also joined the programme with a keynote address, bringing an international dimension to a celebration rooted in the UAE.
But one of the afternoon’s most memorable moments belonged to Fatima Alloghani, the first Emirati female adventure rider.
Fatima Alloghani shared an inspiring message shaped by her own unconventional journey — one defined by adventure, determination and the willingness to step into spaces where women have not always been widely represented.
Her story carried particular significance on Emirati Women’s Day. Rather than focusing only on titles or traditional definitions of success, her journey reflected how Emirati women today are increasingly defining achievement on their own terms.
Adventure riding may seem far removed from the traditional image of women’s leadership, but perhaps that was precisely what made her presence meaningful. Courage can take many forms. Sometimes it is leading an organisation or building a business; at other times, it is simply choosing a path that challenges expectations.
The afternoon extended that idea beyond speeches.
Internationally acclaimed mindfulness instructor Anne Liyanage opened the interactive programme with a mindfulness experience designed to encourage guests to reconnect with themselves before connecting with one another.
Creativity was also given its own space through a Bedazzle Workshop, while a Ceylon Tea presentation introduced guests to an element of Sri Lankan heritage and culture. The programme also included the unveiling of a new magazine and company by Her Excellency Dr. Anusha Cooray.
As conversations continued throughout the afternoon, the atmosphere shifted naturally between inspiration, cultural exchange, creativity and wellness.
The gathering concluded with breathwork, meditation and sound healing led by Marichu, Wellness Manager at The Retreat Palm — a fitting reminder that conversations about women’s progress can also include something often overlooked: the importance of slowing down and taking care of oneself.
Emirati Women’s Day has always been an occasion to recognise how far women in the UAE have come. Yet gatherings like this also offer another perspective.
The story is no longer simply about women entering new spaces. It is about women creating those spaces, supporting one another within them and having the confidence to define what achievement means for themselves.
And sometimes, as Fatima Alloghani’s journey reminds us, that path may begin by having the courage to take a road few others have travelled.
ABOUT MUNA AL SUMAITI:
With more than 14 years of experience in the UAE media industry, Our Consulting Editor, Muna Al Sumaiti, has worked closely with some of the country’s most recognized media brands, including Dubai TV, Sama Dubai, Dubai One, Al Bayan, Emarat Al Youm, Dubai Radio, Noor Dubai, Emirates 24/7, and Dubai Post. Her extensive background in media, marketing, partnerships, audience engagement, and brand development has made her a respected name in the industry. She is also the Founder of RSV Communications, a UAE-based consultancy specializing in strategic communications, reputation management, and brand growth.
