Dr. Maya Al-Hawari: A Trailblazer in Educational Leadership and Empowerment

Dr. Maya Al-Hawari stands as a pioneering force in the realms of smart educational leadership and emotional intelligence within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. As the first Arab Emirati doctor specializing in these fields, her work has significantly influenced leadership practices across the region. Her exceptional contributions have not gone unnoticed; in 2024, she was honored by the Ministry of Tolerance as one of the 80 prominent writers and creators globally. Additionally, she has been recognized among the top 50 influential figures in Dubai.

Dr. Al-Hawari’s commitment to fostering positive digital citizenship earned her the prestigious first prize as an Ambassador of Positive Digital Citizenship in the UAE. Her influence extends into the literary world with her impactful books, including Towards Confident Femininity (2022) and You Lead Your Life (2021), which are available in both English and Arabic. Her participation in the “Children’s Reading Festival 2023” as one of 27 Arab creators highlights her dedication to nurturing a love for reading among the younger generation.

A respected columnist for Sayidaty magazine and Al Khaleej newspaper, Dr. Al-Hawari also engages audiences through her YouTube program, #Rukn_Maya Podcast. Her leadership extends to her role as Chairwoman of the Board of Directors at Dubai Carmel School, where her performance has been rated as “Good” by Dubai Private Schools in 2023. Her extensive training as a Professional Development Consultant has benefited over 1,000 government employees across the UAE in recent years.

Dr. Al-Hawari’s contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades, including being named Knowledge Ambassador by Emirates Red Crescent and Knight of Tolerance under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Humaid Al Nuaimi. Her role as Community Service Ambassador for MENA further underscores her commitment to regional development. As the brand owner of Maya Al Hawary Abayas, she continues to blend tradition with modernity, making a lasting impact in both her professional and personal endeavors.