As the energy industry undergoes a profound transformation, the United Arab Emirates stands out as a leader in this evolution. At the forefront of this are Emirati women who are rapidly emerging as powerful leaders, driving innovation and sustainability in a sector traditionally dominated by men.
Their contributions span a wide range of fields, from engineering and project management to policy-making and renewable energy development. In this article, Oil and Gas Middle East highlights a few of these trailblazing Emirati women who are shaping the future of the industry.
Abeer Al Ateibi, Manager, Sustainability Programs & Performance at ADNOC
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Abeer Al Ateibi was first drawn to a career in energy as she found it to be a fulfilling career that provides essential services to the community and offers numerous growth opportunities. “As an Emirati, I have always admired ADNOC’s significant contribution to the UAE, which inspired me to pursue a scholarship through ADNOC to study engineering, a decision that marked the beginning of my rewarding career in the energy industry.”
Speaking on her experience she said that she would describe it as exhilarating. “ Throughout my career, I have encountered challenges and received invaluable support, both of which have played a significant role in my personal and professional growth.”
“The most fulfilling aspect of my job is the ability to make a meaningful impact. My responsibility involves guiding the implementation of the sustainability strategy and improving sustainability and ESG performance towards a better future, which is what I define as making a difference.”
On challenges she has faced at work Al Ateibi said, “As a sustainability manager, I recognise that sustainability is deeply embedded within the organisation’s fabric and cannot be viewed as an isolated initiative: it requires a collaborative approach involving capacity building, identifying areas for partnership, and driving collective efforts to achieve meaningful and lasting results.”
“As such, the challenge and opportunity lie in fostering this integration and ensuring that sustainability is a shared responsibility across all levels of the organisation.”
On the gender bias and the inevitable struggle of being a woman in a male-dominated industry, Al Ateibi said, “My primary challenge has been overcoming preconceived notions about what women can or cannot achieve. I tackled these challenges through consistent performance and delivery, proving that we can surpass expectations and excel in our roles.”
Her biggest plan for the year includes developing a specific skill set, “This time, I’ve chosen to deepen my financial expertise. To kickstart this journey, I’ve applied for the CFA program to enhance my financial acumen.”
Khadeeja Khalid AlHosani, Vice President, Community Communications at ADNOC
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Khadeeja Khalid AlHosani has had diverse experiences across several industries, and while she had earlier never envisioned herself in the energy sector she said that joining ADNOC completely transformed that perspective. “It (ADNOC) introduced me to a dynamic and crucial industry that goes beyond just supplying energy to driving innovation and creating significant value. This journey has also deepened my understanding of energy’s critical role in our daily lives and its endless possibilities for shaping a sustainable future.”
On her journey as an Emirati woman, AlHosani said that it has been incredibly rewarding, “Growing up, I was surrounded by inspiring role models who showed me that opportunities are limitless in our careers. Empowerment, for me, has come from both receiving and offering support: I’ve been guided by mentors and coaches, both male and female and encouraged to invest in the growth and development of my peers and team members, a balance of support and contribution has been instrumental in my journey.”
“So I’m very proud to help drive our Women’s Leadership Development Program, which aims to accelerate professional growth through executive coaching and mentoring, and that we are a founding partner of the Pathway20 initiative – the UAE’s only program dedicated to building the pipeline of female board directors and connecting them to boards of listed and large-scale private companies.
Speaking about the best parts of her job AlHosani said, “Realising that what we do at ADNOC truly embodies the essence of “bringing energy to life” is profoundly rewarding. Through our work, we contribute to the broader community’s development, well-being, and prosperity; I am privileged to witness how this energy positively impacts multiple generations and to be a part of preserving the legacy of an organisation that has been a cornerstone of socio-economic development since its inception.”
About the challenges along the way. AlHosani said they include balancing the responsibility of being accountable for others’ development while managing task execution and this requires constant awareness of different stakeholders and team members’ needs and expectations, as navigating these relationships demands adaptability and effective communication. “Additionally, tailoring communication strategies to meet the diverse expectations of a broad audience is no easy task, but the sense of accomplishment that comes from successfully meeting these challenges makes it worthwhile.”
Al Hosani was also keen to point out that despite the industry being male-dominated in the past that was never a hurdle she faced. “I’m fortunate to have joined a forward-thinking energy company where around one in five senior leadership positions are held by women. Their leadership has paved the way for future generations, creating an environment that supports and empowers women to excel.”
She has recently taken on the leadership of the newly established community communication team and said that she is excited to enhance their engagement with the Emirati community. “I look forward to further highlighting our culture and values by bringing more of these stories to life.”
Thuraya Al Hanaee, Team Leader, Reliability at Habshan 5, ADNOC
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Thuraya Al Hanaee’s interest in the energy sector began when she was very young. “I would often wonder how electricity reached our home and how it was transmitted. This curiosity, combined with a strong desire to make a tangible impact on both the environment and society, inspired me to pursue a career in this field.”
On her journey as an Emirati woman in the energy sector, Al Hanaee said it has been both challenging and rewarding. “Stepping into a traditionally male-dominated industry, I encountered initial obstacles; however, with determination and support from my family and community, I was able to carve my own path.”
“The UAE’s dedication to diversifying its economy and empowering Emirati women has opened doors for me to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development through the energy sector, and I am proud to be part of a generation of women leading the way in this vital field. Every step I’ve taken has strengthened my belief in the importance of sustainable energy and the pivotal role women can play in shaping our future.”
Speaking on her favourite part of her job Al Hanaee said, “As a member of the team responsible for ensuring and contributing to the production of around 60% of the UAE’s natural gas requirements, I take great pride in playing a crucial role in meeting the nation’s energy needs.”
That is not to say she didn’t encounter her fair share of challenges along the way. “As an Emirati woman, advancing in a traditionally male-dominated field required me to continually prove my abilities and establish credibility. Though balancing these professional challenges with cultural expectations and personal responsibilities has been delicate, each obstacle has only strengthened my determination to make a meaningful impact in the energy sector.”
Al Hanaee gave the example of a challenge she faced, “ Someone at the field suggested I not come in the next day because it would be too crowded due to a turnaround — a rare activity that only happens once every five to ten years. Despite the suggestion, I showed up unexpectedly and participated in the activity. This experience fueled my curiosity, teaching me valuable lessons that continue to shape my journey.”
Al Hanee said that this year she is focused on pushing boundaries in my career and community. “Professionally, I’m leading a major AI initiative to enhance efficiency and sustainability in the energy sector. Additionally, I’m exploring ways to give back and contribute meaningfully to my community, ensuring that my growth also benefits those around me.”
Shaikha Mohammad Sharif, BESS & Thermal Solutions Engineer, Climate Negotiator, MASDAR
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Shaikha Mohammad Sharif was first drawn towards a career in energy as she was captivated by how the energy sector drives and transforms economies. “My passion for STEM and the intricacies of technical work further fueled my interest. I wanted to play a pivotal role in the energy transition, contributing to the UAE’s position as a climate leader and helping the nation achieve its ambitious energy mix targets.”
Sharif said her journey as an Emirati woman in particular has been exceptionally rewarding. “It’s immensely reassuring to know that I’m supported by a nation that spares no effort in empowering women across all fields, including energy. The opportunities and encouragement I’ve received have been instrumental in my professional growth.”
Sharif finds the most rewarding part of her job to be working on large-scale renewable energy projects and contributing to the energy transition in the UAE and beyond its borders. “We believe in leaving no one behind during the transition.”
Speaking on the challenges of the fast-paced nature of the energy industry demands, Sharif said it needs constant vigilance. “Staying up-to-date with new regulations, technologies, and best practices is crucial to successfully managing both routine and non-routine tasks.”
Sharif was also keen to point out that the energy sector, particularly in the UAE, has witnessed a remarkable rise in women in leadership roles and in driving groundbreaking innovations. “I’m fortunate to have role models within the industry whom I can look up to and relate to. While challenges exist, the UAE’s unique environment, which nurtures and supports women, has made it possible to overcome them. I also look forward to seeing more women emerge as role models for future generations.”
Sharif’s plans for the year ahead include contributing to more large-scale renewable energy projects, “Expanding and sharing my knowledge within the field, and furthering the UAE’s position as a global leader in clean energy.”
Shamma Mohammed Altaher, Engineer, Civil & Structural Department, Petrofac
Shamma Mohammed Altaher’s childhood in Ras al Khaimah first piqued her curiosity for engineering. “I was fascinated by the houses built on the mountainsides and wondered how they stayed put. This curiosity about the balance between structure and nature sparked my interest in civil engineering.”
“From those early questions about stability, I developed a passion for understanding how buildings are designed and constructed. This led me into the world of engineering, where I found joy in turning ideas into tangible projects.”
Speaking on the most rewarding part of her job, Altaher said, “One of the greatest rewards of being an engineer is seeing a project come to life from scratch. Transforming an idea from a sketch on paper into a fully functioning structure is incredibly fulfilling.”
“In 2018, while working as a trainee with the Ministry of Infrastructure in Ras al Khaimah, I was involved in several projects, including a health centre that I now visit for most of my appointments. Seeing that health centre in action always fills me with pride, even though my role was just a small part of its creation.”
“Meanwhile in my current position at Petrofac, knowing that I am supporting major energy infrastructure projects that will power the future of the UAE is incredibly exciting and something I look forward to doing every day.”
Altaher was also keen to point out that engineering is an ever-evolving field with a never-ending learning process. “There is much to absorb as an engineering graduate, and it can be intimidating when you’re surrounded by senior engineers who have ten times the experience you have. However, once you get past that fear and realise how much you can benefit from their expertise, it motivates you to be the best you possibly can be.”
“For instance, I work on the Habshan Gas Compressor Plant project, and at times it can be daunting, but I embrace these challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. With the support and guidance of my team, I tackle new tasks and responsibilities with confidence.”
Delving into the intricacies of being a woman in a previously male-dominated field Altaher said, “As a female engineer, when I attend meetings mostly led by men, I often feel a shadow looming over me. Because at those moments, it feels like I am carrying the weight of representing all female engineers. Hence, there’s a sense of wanting to excel not just for personal achievement but to pave the way and do justice for those who will come after me.”
“After speaking with my female peers, it seems we all feel the same as we navigate our way in male-dominated sectors. It’s a path of continuous learning and perseverance, and while I know change won’t come overnight, I remain committed to playing my role in ensuring an inclusive environment for future generations.”
Speaking on her unique experience of being an Emirati woman in the private sector Altaher said, “I believe my biggest supporter is my country, and my biggest pride is to contribute to such a community that values and actively supports the success of women. This dedication to women’s advancement has been a cornerstone of the UAE’s progress and remains a source of inspiration and motivation for me as I continue to build my career.”
“I am also deeply grateful for the empowering environment that Petrofac has created for me and my peers. It has actively facilitated the inclusion of Emirati talent and created plenty of opportunities for women to thrive. This proactive approach not only aligns with the UAE’s vision of supporting female Emiratis in the private sector but also provides so much potential for personal and professional growth.”
Altaher’s biggest ambitions for the year ahead include pushing herself further and growing as an engineer. “I’m excited to dive into new challenges and take on bigger projects. I want to learn more, whether that’s through new skills, certifications, or just taking on more complex tasks at work. I’m also looking forward to making a bigger impact on the workstreams I’m involved in and helping our clients with their energy needs.”
Shatha Alkokhardi, Interface Engineer, Project Management, Petrofac
Shatha Alkokhardi has always been curious, constantly asking questions, trying to figure out how things work, and viewing them from different perspectives. “During high school, my fascination with physics and robotics deepened, which is when I started to seriously consider a career in engineering. This passion led me to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management.”
“Transitioning from university to my current role as an Interface Engineer has been a challenging yet rewarding experience. I’ve had the opportunity to learn so much, not just in terms of my professional skills but also on a personal level enabling me to succeed in the workplace.”
Alkokhardi said she genuinely enjoys her work and finds that there are many rewarding parts of her job. “One aspect I’ve always valued is having my name recognised when major tasks are completed. I’m also a people person and being able to have direct interactions with clients and stakeholders is always exciting. However, what I find most gratifying, is knowing that my efforts in the office make a significant difference for those based on-site. They work extremely hard, often in remote locations, so helping ensure they encounter no issues is important to me. It’s fulfilling to feel that my contributions have a meaningful impact on their day-to-day operations.”
Speaking on the challenges of being a woman in the energy sector, Alkokhardi said, “As the only female on the interface team, I’ve sometimes faced difficulties when interacting with external parties. However, I’ve found that strong communication skills and a confident approach have been crucial in navigating these challenges. By focusing on effective dialogue and building strong relationships, I’ve been able to overcome obstacles and contribute positively to the team.”
“Being a woman in this field does sometimes come with its hurdles such as establishing credibility and gaining respect among male peers. To overcome these, I’ve let my work speak for itself by building deep technical expertise and ensuring that my contributions are both visible and valuable. I’ve also learned to communicate effectively and present my perspective with confidence, and this helps people take me seriously. Apart from this, I’ve made a conscious effort to grow my network and seek mentorship wherever possible which has opened many doors for me. Overall, being resilient and adaptable has allowed me to convert challenges into opportunities and ultimately helped fuel my growth. “
Alkokhardi was also keen to point out the significant role that the UAE government has played in her career as an Emirati woman. “They have been incredibly supportive of Emirati women in the workplace. I can’t count the number of initiatives in place that are geared towards enhancing our professional and technical skills. There is also a huge amount of investment in education and specialised training programmes that we benefit from, which when combined with the nation’s Emiratisation policy, helps ensure that more of us are represented in the private sector.”
“I’m also grateful to be working in an organisation like Petrofac that is closely aligned with this mandate. Through on-the-job training, support, and hands-on project experience, I feel encouraged to pursue my dreams and develop my talent and capabilities in a way that contributes to the country’s long-term success.”
In the coming year, Alkokhardi said she is dedicated to advancing her project management skills and taking on more complex projects. “I plan to pursue relevant certifications and training to stay current with the latest industry methodologies. Additionally, I aim to strengthen my leadership capabilities by improving my skills in stakeholder communication, risk management, and team motivation. By focusing on these areas, I hope to drive successful project outcomes and make a significant contribution to our business.”
