Al Ain: Over the last 54 years of its operations, the largest of its kind in the Middle East, Al Ain Zoo has been a has made great strides in offering women unique occupations and creating an inclusive work environment.
The Zoo has attracted hundreds of highly qualified female professionals to take on positions in animal care, wildlife preservation and nature conservation fields.
With 95 percent of its female staff being UAE nationals, the Zoo has been one of the leading government institutions in supporting women and encouraging them to take an active role in unique fields that were rarely occupied by women in the Arab world in previous years.
The Zoo hired the 1st female Emirati birds of prey trainer, Animal Keepers, veterinarians, veterinary nurses, animal nutritionists, gardeners, laboratory and anatomy technicians, tour guides, Safari guides, as well as administrative and supervisory positions connected to wildlife preservation and animal care, adding up the total to an impressive 204 female Emirati professionals in total.
“Celebrating Emirati Women’s Day under the theme, ‘Inspiring Reality… Sustainable Future’ is a true reflection of what Emirati women have presented since the inception of our beloved country. Emirati women have always been contributing in all areas of national development, as they took an equal part in upholding the UAE’s status and continuous efforts to reach the highest levels of success, sustainability and advancement.”
Mr. Ghanim Mubarak Al Hajeri, Director-General of the Zoo & Aquarium Public Institution in Al Ain remarked on the occasion of Emirati Women’s Day, celebrated on 28th of August every year.
Mr. Al Hajeri further added that, these achievements had been accomplished under the auspices of the President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation.