The Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy reaffirmed, on the occasion of the International Day of Women in Diplomacy, the importance of continuing to support women's presence in the diplomatic corps and strengthening their participation in leadership and decision-making positions, as key partners in shaping the country's foreign policy and building peace.
Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Dhaheri, Deputy Director-General of the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, said: "Emirati women have demonstrated an influential presence in diplomatic work, thanks to the vision of our wise leadership, which has made their empowerment a national priority. Today, women make up approximately half of the workforce at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while the representation of female ambassadors rose from 7% in 2018 to 13% in 2025." He added: "The Academy continues its role in preparing female diplomats who possess the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to represent the United Arab Emirates with competence. Female graduates account for approximately 60% of the Academy's students, which supports the sustained presence of women in diplomatic work."
Dr. Sara Shahab, Director of Graduate Studies Programmes at the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy and founder of the Women and Diplomacy research programme, said: "Data from the 2025 Women in Diplomacy Index indicates that the proportion of female ambassadors and permanent representatives worldwide has reached 22.5%, reflecting steady progress, while at the same time underscoring the need for further policies supporting women."
She added: "Through the Women and Diplomacy programme, we work to produce research and data that support decision-makers, alongside offering training programmes on the Women, Peace and Security agenda and contemporary international issues." She concluded by saying: "Enhancing women's presence in diplomacy is not limited to increasing numbers; it requires empowering them to access positions of influence and to participate in shaping policies and international solutions."
The Academy affirmed its ongoing commitment to supporting and empowering women in the diplomatic corps through the development of specialised educational and research programmes and the strengthening of international partnerships, contributing to the preparation of a generation of women leaders capable of contributing effectively to diplomatic work and shaping a more stable and cooperative future at the global level.