A number of renowned Arab women will be awarded for their achievements at a prestigious event today (Dec. 6) in London. The Arab Women of the Year Awards Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony will showcase the capabilities of Arab women as leaders and will bring together representatives of governments, businesses and civil society.
The 2018 awards are created by London Arabia Organization, and have been supported by the Mayor of London. This year’s event will be held in partnership with Regents University London, the Bicester Village Shopping Collection, Y Asset Management, the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and London & Partners. The event also aims to act as an avenue to promote cultural understanding between Britain and the Arab world.
Professor Aldwyn Cooper, advisory board chairman and vice chancellor and CEO of Regent’s University, said: “The last year has seen an increasing focus on the role of women in society all across the world. We have continued to see social change in Arab countries, led and supported by the country leaders, to move from the dominance of men through to the substantial growth of input from women from many countries and many different backgrounds.”
He added: “One of the best ways to form bridges between countries is through trade and by celebrating each other’s successes. This is one of the key aspects of this event, which seeks to recognize the tremendous contributions being made by women in the Arab world as they take on new leadership roles.”
Omar Bdour, chief executive officer of the London Arabia Organization, said: “The awards can act as a way of promoting the achievements of Arab women who have become role models for our children’s generations. Giving recognition to these women can inspire even more to follow in their footsteps.”
He added: “Hosting the awards in London highlights the close relationship between the UK and Arab world. We hope that our event will play a part in helping to end stereotyping of the Arab world and of Arab women, who accomplish so much, despite much of the West’s impression of them.”
Desiree Boiler, Value Retail’s chair and chief merchant, said: “Partnering with London Arabia is a clear demonstration of our commitment to the Middle East — these guests are an integral part of our business, we work hard to ensure they feel at home in our villages and we’re delighted to support an event which promotes cultural understanding of the Arab world.”
London celebrates achievements of Arab women
London celebrates achievements of Arab women
Dubai Shopping Festival’s sporting events turn city into hub for outdoor action
The Dubai Shopping Festival is raising the bar this winter with a high-impact sporting calendar that runs throughout December and January, transforming the city into a hub for elite competition, community fitness and outdoor action.
From professional basketball to baseball games, polo tournaments, half marathons, and horse racing, the festival brings together athletes, families and spectators for a dynamic winter season of sport. The diverse lineup of events strengthens DSF’s role in supporting Dubai’s active lifestyle, showcasing world-class sporting venues and encouraging community engagement during the city’s peak outdoor season.
Key sporting events taking place during DSF:
Dubai Racing Carnival
- Race days: Jan. 2, Jan. 9 and ongoing dates until March 13.
- Location: Meydan Racecourse
The flagship winter racing season features international horses and top jockeys.
More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnivaland https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnival-festive-friday
Silver Cup
- Date: Jan. 10-Jan.24
- Location: Al-Habtoor Polo Resort and Club
Silver Cup, part of Dubai’s prestigious polo calendar, sees six of the world’s best teams go head-to-head in a 20-goal handicap.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/silver-cup
Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge — Build-Up Ride 4
- Date: Jan. 4
- Location: Al-Qudra Cycle Track
The last of the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge Build-Up Rides is designed to help cyclists build their stamina ahead of the ultimate challenge.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/spinneys-dubai-92-cycle-challenge-build-up-ride-4
Hood to Coast Dubai 2026
- Date: Jan. 10
- Location: Al-Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve
Hood to Coast Dubai challenges teams to conquer a series of relay segments through expansive desert trails, with each runner taking on their leg before passing the baton.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/hood-to-coast
Skechers Performance Run — Race 4 (16k/10k/5k/3k)
- Date: Jan. 10
- Location: Meydan
Enjoy a fun day out for the whole family at this popular community race offering various distances, where participants can run along the traffic-free roads of Meydan.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/skechers-performance-run
Marina Home Dubai Creek Striders Half Marathon 2026
- Date: Jan. 11
- Location: Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club
One of the largest races of its kind in the UAE and the Middle East, this half marathon will mark its 23rd edition in 2026.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-creek-striders-half-marathon
A citywide sporting season
With events spanning elite international fixtures, community runs, polo tournaments, multi-distance races, trail challenges and recurring racing nights at Meydan, DSF strengthens Dubai’s winter season for sport, well-being and outdoor experiences.
