ABU DHABI // As the final touches are being made to the UAE’s first festival honouring the achievements of Mother of the Nation Sheikha Fatima, Emirati women believe even this prestigious event does not come close to doing her justice.
The Mother of the Nation Festival, to be held at Abu Dhabi Corniche from Thursday, celebrates the inspirational work of Sheikha Fatima, who is also Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, Supreme President of the Family Development Foundation and head of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood.
“If it were a million festivals and the world’s accolades, it is nothing compared to the work and accomplishments of Sheikha Fatima,” said Noura Al Suwaidi, director general of the General Women’s Union.
“She deserves a lot more and whatever we do – festivals, awards – it amounts to a drop in a sea of limitless generosity and achievements.”
Sheikha Fatima’s humanitarian work and support, Ms Al Suwaidi said, has reached all corners of the globe.
On Monday, the President, Sheikh Khalifa, awarded Sheikha Fatima the Zayed Medal for her national and social roles.
Maryam Al Roumi, who served as Minister of Social Affairs, said: “You can not specify the work of Sheikha Fatima because it is limitless and boundless, from supporting refugees to empowering women to education and so much more.
“She has paved the road towards women’s development and empowerment, but again it would be unfair and inaccurate to say that her work was only towards family development, because she has also focused on education, technology, health and more.”
Sheikha Fatima, Ms Al Roumi said, had an unwavering belief that family stability leads to a safe and strong community.
“She contributed to the stability and safety of the community but again, that wasn’t all.” she said. “Her footsteps and contributions have helped not just the UAE or the Arab region but the world, and it is still ongoing.”
Also on Monday, the foundation stone was laid for the Sheikha Fatima Children’s Hospital in the Kosovo capital of Pristina. It will provide emergency care for mothers and children when it opens in 2018.
One of the founders of the Women’s Union, Shamsa Darwish, said: “There no one who deserves our appreciation more. This is the least that could be done to show our appreciation for Sheikha Fatima’s continuous support and efforts.”
One of the most important aspects of the festival, which will include exhibits and performances, is the opportunity to honour the mothers of the UAE’s fallen heroes, Ms Darwish said.
Sheikha Fatima met the mothers of the martyrs during the awards ceremony on Monday.
“Sheikha Fatima and the mothers of martyrs are a symbol of support and sacrifice that we want to celebrate and honour,” Ms Darwish said.
The Mother of the Nation Festival will continue until April 2, running from 4pm to midnight. Sport performances, art markets, beach dining and historical displays will be available.
Emirati civil engineer Hessa Al Khaldy said: “We look forward to having this event every year and will forever be indebted to the Mother of the Nation, to the mothers of the martyrs and every mother whose sacrifices have helped shape the UAE in the symbol of security and stability that it is today.”
salnuwais@thenational.ae