One of Europe’s Highest Honours Recognises the UAE’s Global Leadership and Commitment to Women’s Empowerment
The United Arab Emirates has once again reinforced its reputation as a nation that cultivates globally respected leaders. Italy’s prestigious Marisa Bellisario Foundation honoured Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy with the Marisa Bellisario Award, one of the country’s highest honours for women whose outstanding leadership has advanced diplomacy, government, business, innovation, science, and humanitarian causes.
The award was presented in Rome during the 38th edition of the Marisa Bellisario Awards by Antonio Tajani, recognising Al Hashimy’s remarkable contribution to international cooperation, diplomacy, and the strengthening of global partnerships between nations.
A Recognition Beyond Personal Achievement
Rather than accepting the honour solely as an individual accomplishment, Al Hashimy dedicated the recognition to the women of the UAE.
She described the award as a reflection of the country’s long-standing vision of empowering women to lead across government, diplomacy, business, technology, and international cooperation. According to Al Hashimy, the recognition demonstrates how the UAE continues to invest in female leadership as a national priority.
Strengthening UAE–Italy Relations
The award also arrives at an important moment in relations between the UAE and Italy.
Following the State Visit of Sergio Mattarella to the UAE earlier this year, both countries have significantly expanded cooperation across investment, sustainability, innovation, education, trade, and cultural exchange. The recognition symbolises not only Al Hashimy’s diplomatic achievements but also the growing strategic partnership between the two nations.
A Driving Force Behind Modern Dubai
Internationally, Reem Al Hashimy is perhaps best known for leading the successful delivery of Expo 2020 Dubai, one of the largest global events ever hosted in the Middle East.
Her leadership transformed Expo into a platform for innovation, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and international collaboration, attracting millions of visitors and reinforcing Dubai’s position as one of the world’s leading business and innovation hubs
The UAE’s Model of Women’s Leadership
The Marisa Bellisario Award has previously recognised globally influential women, including Queen Rania Al Abdullah, Madeleine Albright, and Nadia Murad.
Reem Al Hashimy now joins this distinguished group, highlighting how the UAE has become an international model for developing female leaders capable of shaping diplomacy, economic development, and global cooperation.
Why This Matters
While many countries continue to debate gender equality in leadership, the UAE has increasingly demonstrated its commitment through action. Women occupy key positions across government, business, technology, diplomacy, healthcare, and innovation.
The recognition of Reem Al Hashimy by one of Europe’s most respected leadership institutions reinforces the UAE’s growing international influence—not only as an economic powerhouse but also as a country investing in talent, diversity, and future-oriented leadership.
As Dubai continues to attract entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals from around the world, achievements like this reinforce the country’s reputation for recognising and rewarding leaders who demonstrate competence, vision, and lasting impact.
