Abu Dhabi is Set to Host the 2nd Edition of Abaya Rally on Emirati Women's Day

Celebrating women power leading the way, the rally showcases over 100 cars at the Yas Marina Circuit in the capital.

Dubai, August 16, 2022 - Abaya Rally, a glamorous event celebrating women’s empowerment, is all set to take place on 28 August 2022 in Abu Dhabi. Lined up on Emirati Women’s day, the event will feature an exhilarating drive uniting women dressed in Abayas and Sheilas at the Yas Marina Circuit. The event will celebrate women and their achievements and empower them in the UAE through the ‘Power of the Abaya’ – which represents a proud tradition, a deeply respected culture, and the identity of women in the UAE.  

Emirati Women’s Day was founded by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak in 2015, to recognize Emirati women’s efforts and to tribute to their devotion, strength, accomplishments, and ambitions in shaping the United Arab Emirates. The theme for 2022 announced by Sheikha Fatima is ‘Inspiring Reality; Sustainable Future’ which exemplifies the bright and prosperous future of Emirati women. 
The Abaya Rally is an all-women car rally organized by Orbit Events and Promotions, one of UAE’s leading event companies, with the support of the Emirates Motor Sports Organization (EMSO). The event takes place at the Al Raha Beach Hotel which represents the charm of contemporary Arabic décor perfectly blended with the traditional warmth of Arabian hospitality.

Commenting on the event, Pragna Vaya, Managing Director of Orbit Events, said, “It is an honour to organize the event on Emirati women's day, which celebrates the resolve of women to overcome challenges and achieve great things. Abaya Rally brings together women from different walks of life to show that women can have all the fun as well as drive forward empowered, stronger, and successful towards a more sustainable world.”
The Rally brings together women from different walks of life including car enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and professionals. This goes on to bring forth the message that women lead the way because they are driven to empower. The drive and parade signify women supporting each other, breaking stereotypes, driving for the change they stand for, and towards a brighter sustainable future. 

Dr Walaa Ahmed Al Shehhi, a multitalented electrical engineer, writer, and life coach, said, “As a woman, you are the power of now, and you hold the secret to creating the impossible. You are the key to everything possible”.

Abaya Rally will also feature the Emirati Women of Achievement Awards Ceremony that will recognize remarkable Emirati women who are making a difference in various fields. Dr Eng. Suaad Alshamsi, UAE’s First Aircraft Engineer and nominee for the Emirati Women of Achievement Award, said, “If you can dream it, you can do it and if you can do it, you can achieve it and you will succeed in it. Just follow your dreams and believe.” 
Mr Kamal Zayati, General Manager, Al Raha Beach Hotel, said, “We are at Al Raha Beach Hotel are honoured to partner and host such a prestigious event to celebrate the Emirati Women’s Day as it gives women in the UAE the recognition they deserve for their continuous outstanding contribution to the development of the nation.” 

The format will include a Red Carpet, Abaya Fashion show, a panel discussion featuring notable women deliberating on key topics, and meaningful narratives around empowerment, women’s representation in leadership, excelling in careers, well-being, and steps to achieving gender parity.