This past month, I had the privilege of joining an extraordinary team for the Empower Women Media Dubai Forum. The experience was hope-filled and transformational. It was filled with awe, connection, and renewed hope for our work to promote gender equality and religious freedom.
Day One
Our first full day began with a team excursion around Dubai, a city that honestly defies imagination. From its luxurious hotels to its iconic landmarks, every corner of Dubai tells a story of ambition and ingenuity. It’s hard to fathom that this sprawling metropolis rose from the desert in just the last two decades. Every corner has something to offer and a welcoming spirit.
That evening, we gathered at Nezha Alaoui’s home, whose hospitality was as warm as the vibrant city. Over a delicious meal, we shared our stories and work. It was comforting to know that we are each dedicated to fostering gender equality and peacebuilding in the Middle East. It is incredible how powerful it is to unite passionate women to dream and strategize for a better world.
Day Two
The Dubai Forum was a day full of hope and inspiration. Women from across the globe, from all Abrahamic faiths, convened to discuss how religious freedom contributes to inclusive and thriving societies. We listened to incredible speakers, including Natalie Sanandaji, an October 7th Nova concert survivor whose resilience and testimony had the room captured. Former Ambassador Marcy Grossman illuminated the significance of the Abraham Accords in fostering peace, and the Abraham Women’s Alliance co-founder, Astrid Hajjar.
Business leaders and NGO advocates shared how media is paving the way for gender equality and religious freedom. We talked in groups at our tables and discussed ways to make a difference in the areas that interest us. There was talk of starting a podcast, a nonprofit that humanizes our biases, creating documentaries, and more. The room was full of excitement and creativity as we wrote our action plans.
The day ended with a celebration and a graduation ceremony. Every conversation underscored the power of collective action and women’s roles in creating inclusive societies where faith and freedom can flourish. We went as a team to have a lovely dinner overlooking the Burj Khalifa and continued our hope-filled ideas and conversations, ending the evening on a truly hopeful note.
Day Three
Our next adventure took us to Abu Dhabi, where we visited some of the most spiritually and artistically profound places. The Abrahamic Family House, a site where a mosque, church, and synagogue coexist harmoniously, stood as a tangible representation of our mission. Walking through the unified garden space, I couldn’t help but reflect on the beauty of these Abrahamic faiths coming together in peace and unity. Women, undoubtedly, are at the heart of this work. There was such a peaceful presence at the center that filled me with hope and determination for this important work of religious unity and freedom.
We also explored the cultural richness of the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the grandeur of the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque, which was deliciously opulent and welcoming.
Each site left an indelible mark on our hearts, reminding us of the beauty that arises when cultures and faiths intersect with mutual respect and understanding.
Day Four
On our final day, we took a relaxing boat tour, soaking in Dubai’s stunning skyline from the Persian Gulf and reflecting on our time together. It was a moment to process the connections we had forged, the stories we had heard, and the inspiration and creative ideas we were taking home.
Looking Ahead to 2025
I, personally, am filled with hope and determination as we head into the new year. The Dubai Forum was a vivid reminder that there are advocates worldwide who tirelessly promote gender equality and religious freedom. We are a network that won’t stop this mission to educate others on religious freedom. Our work is necessary now more than ever. To see women leading the charge in fostering peace, equality, and unity across the Abrahamic faiths is a testament to what’s possible when we come together. As we look to 2025, we carry this vision forward, feeling determined and inspired to continue building inclusive societies.
Watch: News Report by Loureen Ayyoub (CBS News San Francisco) →
