KEY POINTS

  • Sheikha Fatima has been awarded the 2023 DIHAD International Personality Award for Humanitarian Relief 
  • Her adviser, UAE Minister of State Dr. Maitha bint Salem Al Shamsi, received her award on her behalf
  • Sheikha Fatima also received the "Mother of Peace" title for spreading kindness and compassion to others

Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, who is known as the UAE's "Mother of the Nation," has been conferred with the 2023 Dubai International Humanitarian Aid & Development (DIHAD) International Personality Award for Humanitarian Relief, making her the first woman to receive the recognition in the last 19 years.

The wife of the first president of the UAE, late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, was recognized by the DIHAD International Scientific Advisory Board (DISAB) at the opening of the event's Conference and Exhibition on Monday for her humanitarian efforts worldwide.

DIHAD Sustainable Humanitarian Foundation CEO and Ambassador Gerard Putman Cramer announced Sheikha Fatima's award on Monday, praising her for the programs she has established for disaster response and refugee support, and calling her an outstanding contributor for humanitarian support across the world.

"Her Highness Sheikha bint Mubarak has shown us all what it means to be an outstanding figure in the humanitarian world, and we are pleased to present her with this award in high recognition of her long history and commitment to all people around the world," said Cramer, The National News reported.

She was also honored with the title "Mother of Peace" by the DISAB.

UAE Minister of State Dr. Maitha bint Salem Al Shamsi received the award on behalf of Sheikha Fatima. In her acceptance speech, Dr. Al Shamsi praised the heart and soul of Sheikha Fatima, and acknowledged her significant contribution to creating a better world through helping people.

"Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak is a shining example of the humanitarian figure we all aspire to be, and I am honored to receive this award on behalf of her. Her Highness is one that has been blessed with a big heart and a soul that yearns for giving and today marks an incredible recognition for her efforts in bettering humanity," she said.

"Her work in the field is based on three main pillars: values, sustainability and benefits. She believes that sharing success is important and that all those working in the humanitarian work to adopt transparency culture to ensure that procedures are carried out correctly and the success of development," she added.

Through the years, the Mother of Nation has dedicated herself towards improving the lives of Emiratis and empowering women worldwide. Last month, she proactively helped in the treatment of the survivors of the Syria and Turkey earthquake in the UAE.

Aftermath of the deadly earthquake in Antakya
Aftermath of the deadly earthquake in Antakya. Last month, the Mother of the Nation had proactively helped in the treatment of the survivors of the Syria and Turkey earthquake. Reuters