The UAE Gender Balance Council has initiated the National Gender Balance Survey. This survey is part of the development of the UAE Gender Balance Strategy for the period 2027–2031. The goal of this initiative is to expand public participation and consolidate data and understanding that will determine the key priorities for the next stage of development.
The development of the new strategy is based on the UAE's proven approach, which places people at the center of all development initiatives, investing in their potential and promoting legislation and programs that ensure equal opportunities. Simultaneously, preparations are being made for economic, social, and technological changes that will transform the future of societies, labor markets, and the global economy.
Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Gender Balance Council and wife of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, emphasized that under the wise leadership of the UAE, it continues to develop its comprehensive development model with a strong focus on investing in people and expanding their rights to shape the future.
She noted that the country's significant success in promoting gender equality creates prerequisites for even more ambitious goals in the coming phase. Sheikha Manal stated that the UAE Gender Balance Strategy for 2027–2031 must reflect the country's aspirations for the next stage, align with rapid global transformations, and open new horizons for talent and expertise, enriching the path of development while unlocking promising future opportunities, strengthening the UAE's competitiveness, and enhancing its global leadership in promoting gender balance.
Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, confirmed that the development of the new strategy is based on a forward-looking vision that goes beyond assessing the current situation to anticipate changes affecting people's lives and opportunities in the coming years. These changes include transformations in the labor market, the future of the economy, artificial intelligence, future skills, as well as social shifts, care models, and quality of life.
Al Marri explained that as the world changes at unprecedented rates, the nature of work, skills, opportunities, and responsibilities also change. Therefore, the question defining the development of the new strategy is not where the country is today, but how to prepare for upcoming changes and how to turn them into opportunities that strengthen the participation of all members of society and their contribution to the economy and the development process.
She added that the development of the Strategy for 2027–2031 is based on an integrated approach that combines data analysis, dialogue with stakeholders, institutional and industry expertise, and public participation. This allows for the formation of priorities based on a comprehensive understanding of the current situation and an informed view of the future, while taking into account the uniqueness, specific features, and national priorities of the UAE.
As part of this process, the National Gender Balance Survey serves as one of the key stages in developing the strategy, expanding engagement by including people from various segments of society, professional circles, and life stages. This complements existing data and indicators with direct information reflecting people's experiences, needs, and aspirations.
Muza Al Ghweis Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General of the UAE Gender Balance Council, noted that figures and indicators only provide part of the picture, whereas listening to people's experiences adds an equally important dimension. Through the National Survey, they are working to expand the base of collected information and understanding diverse experiences from different segments of society and across all emirates.
She also specified that the survey results will not be considered in isolation from other stages of the strategy development process. Instead, they will be integrated with collected and analyzed data, consultations, and expertise, leading to a deeper understanding of existing challenges and opportunities and helping to define priorities requiring attention in the next stage.
The survey covers a wide range of topics related to people's daily experiences and future aspirations, including economic participation, career development, and financial security, social care and quality of life, as well as future skills and the impact of technology, artificial intelligence, and economic transformations on career paths and opportunities.
The survey is intended for citizens and residents of the UAE, regardless of gender, across various age groups, sectors, and at different professional and life stages in all seven emirates, ensuring diverse participation and a broader understanding of experiences and perspectives.
Participant confidentiality is guaranteed, the completion time is less than 10 minutes, and the survey is available in Arabic and English. Anyone wishing to participate can access it via the link: https://sapience.survey-research.net/GBC-Insta?lang=en.
A growing number of medical specialists are urging women to begin preparing for menopause around the age of thirty, as new research demonstrates the widespread and often debilitating impact this transitional period has on women's health.
Medical experts explain that perimenopause, the phase preceding menopause, can subtly begin in a woman between her mid-to-late thirties. Early signs may include changes in the menstrual cycle, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. Many women mistakenly attribute these symptoms to stress.
Dr. Anousri Saraswati, a gynecologist at Aster Clinic Qusais, emphasized the importance of timely detection of these changes. She noted that while perimenopause typically starts in one's forties, it can begin in the mid-thirties or fifties. Early detection is critical because many women attribute symptoms to stress, aging, or lifestyle changes. Timely assessment allows for prompt intervention, better symptom management, and the implementation of preventive measures to reduce the long-term risk of conditions such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases.
Dr. Malgozata Sinclair warns that the onset of symptoms in one's thirties may indicate premature ovarian aging. She believes that the appearance of such signs at age 30 is an alarming signal of early ovarian depletion. Therefore, specialist consultation is necessary for managing long-term health, as early estrogen decline can accelerate bone mass loss and increase cardiovascular risks.
A preventive approach to menopause involves maintaining overall good health throughout life, with a focus on nutrition, physical activity, sleep, mental well-being, and social connections.
Dr. Malgozata stressed the need for targeted dietary strategies. She advised women in their forties to prioritize strength training, consuming high-protein and high-fiber foods, such as the Mediterranean diet, as well as targeted supplementation with calcium, Vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. Vitamin K2 was named a vital nutrient during menopause because it regulates calcium levels in the body, helping to reduce estrogen-related bone tissue loss and lowering cardiovascular risks.
Some women rely on over-the-counter supplements. However, Professor Joyce Harper, a professor of reproductive science at University College London and a fertility and women's health specialist at Almond Blossoms Fertility & Wellbeing Centre in Dubai, urged caution. She stated that she generally does not recommend taking menopause supplements, and menopause advocacy groups do not recommend them either. Nevertheless, she noted that almost everyone needs Vitamin D, and calcium can be beneficial in some cases.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) remains one of the most effective treatments for moderate and severe menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Experts insist on the critical importance of the correct timing of treatment initiation. Dr. Anousri explained that current data suggests that starting HRT before age 60 or within ten years of menopause provides the greatest benefit. Initiating therapy within this 'window of opportunity' can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, and may also benefit the cardiovascular system in selected women. She emphasized, however, that HRT is not suitable for everyone, and the decision must always be made individually after thorough evaluation.
Dr. Malgozata added, pointing to broader health implications. She reported that HRT initiated in women younger than 60, approaching menopause, significantly reduces all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease risk, and cognitive decline.
Professor Harper presented a more balanced view, noting ongoing discussions within the medical community. She said that if there were clear evidence that HRT reduced the risk of dementia, she would use it herself. However, in her opinion, there is currently insufficient evidence to confirm that HRT reduces the risk of dementia. In her view, the most effective ways to lower the risk of heart disease and cognitive decline are a healthy lifestyle.
One of the most common menopausal symptoms is sleep disturbance. A recent study conducted by the brand Rest, which surveyed 110 women in menopause, showed that 94.5 percent of respondents experienced sleep difficulties, and 83 percent suffered from hot flashes. Medical professionals explained that declining estrogen levels can make the body's thermoregulation system more sensitive, causing sudden feelings of intense heat that often disrupt sleep.
Professor Joyce stressed the importance of prioritizing sleep, stating that without adequate rest, the body and mind cannot properly recover, repair, and reboot. She advised establishing routines that promote mental calm before sleep. Although sleep needs vary among individuals, persistent daytime fatigue often signals the need for more sleep.
Experts strongly urge women to seek reliable information from verified sources rather than relying on social media, where inaccurate representations of menopause treatments are prevalent. Professor Harper recommended following organizations such as the International Menopause Society, the European Menopause and Andropause Society, and the British Menopause Society, as they provide reliable, evidence-based information on their websites.
Dr. Anousri advised women to keep a record of their symptoms and prepare for doctor's visits. Keeping records of menstrual cycle changes and symptoms, attending regular check-ups, and discussing family history and personal health concerns with a gynecologist helps in making informed decisions. As part of the Care for Her program at Aster Hospitals & Clinics, women are encouraged to take an active role in their health through regular screenings, preventive care, and individualized guidance at all stages of life.
Dr. Malgozata emphasized the exceptional importance of open communication with healthcare providers. She advised creating a list of specific questions or issues to discuss before an appointment. It is necessary to speak openly about symptoms and concerns, clearly describing the experienced menopausal signs and how they affect daily life. Discussing any worries allows for decisions aligned with health priorities and ensures the most appropriate care for the situation.
The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) approved the schedule for the Women's Asia T20 Cup 2026 on Thursday. The eight-team tournament will take place in Dubai from August 28 to September 13, according to Cricinfo.
The tournament kicks off with a Group A match between Hong Kong and Thailand on August 28. A significant group clash between India and Pakistan is scheduled for September 5. All games will be played under lights at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The final match is slated for September 13.
Group A includes India, Pakistan, Hong Kong, and Thailand. In Group B, featuring defending champions Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and the host nation United Arab Emirates (UAE) will also participate.
An important Group B match between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh is planned for September 6. During the group stage, each team will play against the other teams in its group once. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals.
The first semi-final, pitting the winners of Group A against the mid-table teams of Group B, will take place on September 10. The second semi-final, between the mid-table teams of Group A and the winners of Group B, is scheduled for September 11.
This upcoming edition will be the sixth Women's Asia Cup in T20 format. Sri Lanka participates as the reigning champion after winning the previous edition, while Bangladesh won the title in 2018. India is the most successful team in this competition, having won the title three times in T20 format—in 2012, 2016, and 2022.
