The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) publicized the dates for the training of the pledges as part of the womens empowerment initiative it had announced in combination with NAMA Women Advancement Establishment during Women Economic Empowerment Global Summit (WEEGS) 2017 which was held in Sharjah. Through making a learning program that advocates for gender parity and womens economic enablement as per Goal #5 of the UNs Sustainable Development Goals, SCTDA objects to contribute to the UAEs efforts towards driving womens empowerment. The training of first and second batches of candidates will be held from July 7-11; and October 13-17th, 2019, correspondingly.

SCTDAs women empowerment initiative combines tourism training and promotion of equality through community initiatives. By preparing more women with the talents and knowledge required to address the demands of the sector, the initiative will prepare them to take on inspiring roles in tourism and the travel and hospitality business. Furthermore, the program is arranged to have a wider impact and social reach to vibrate with the UN-Women Womens Empowerment Principles (WEPs).

H.E Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of SCTDA, said: At SCTDA, we believe investment in the empowerment of women and girls as one of the significances that has the potential to quicken sustainable development. Our partnership with Womens Economic Empowerment Global Summit, which serves as a catalyst for positive change, adds further value to our efforts in this direction. I would like to express my thankfulness to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council, Ruler of Sharjah, and his wife, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of NAMA for their constant support in advancing the role of women in Sharjah and the UAE. I am positive that the optimistic impact of these efforts will become clear soon, as the initiative is set to prepare Emirati women to take on important roles that drive progress within our society.

As part of the initiative, SCTDA has set two key objectives comprising the promotion of education, training and professional development for women. To achieve this, the Authority has designed a tailored womens empowerment training program to address the key learning needs identified for 40 Emirati women who are fresh graduates. The promotion of equality through community initiatives and advocacy is also a focus area of the program. The initiative offers a Career Path Plan that aims to support the success and empowerment of female Emirati professionals within the Tourism industry.

SCTDA remains to provide opportunities and platforms that pledge promise to promoting a women-inclusive economy, by organizing an array of training and skill development programs with an aim to drive participation and integration of women in the UAEs economy.