ICN Board Member Fatima Al Refaei honoured by United Arab Emirates crown prince for her decades-long contribution to the development of nursing

Photo credit: Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, presents an Abu Dhabi Award to Dr Fatima al Refaei who was recognized for her role in developing nursing in the UAE. Courtesy of Mohamed Al Hammadi, Ministry of Presidential Affairs

Dr Fatima Alsayedyousef Al Refaei, board member of the International Council of Nurses and Adviser for Nursing Affairs at UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention, has received the Abu Dhabi Medal for her important contribution to their community.

Dr Al Refaei has played a key role developing the nursing profession in the UAE, with her achievements including the establishment of the Emirates Nursing Association in 2003, and representation of her country’s nurses at international events and conferences for more than three decades. She has been a member of the board of the International Council of Nurses since 2017.

Speaking about the award, which was presented by Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, ICN President Annette Kennedy said: “On behalf of the ICN board and the whole global nursing family, I am sending heartfelt congratulations to Fatima, our dear colleague, for being awarded such great recognition for her outstanding contribution to nursing in the UAE. Fatima’s unique quiet leadership skills, vision and courage have empowered nurses in the UAE and led nursing into the 21st century and this award is a testimony to her work.”

President of the Emirates Nursing Association Ayesha Al Mehri joined the praise for Dr Al Refaei: “Whenever Dr Fatima’s name was mentioned, UAE would come to mind. She represented Emirati female nurses and gained respect internationally. Firstly, she prioritised education. Secondly, she worked on the laws aimed to address the nursing profession in society. Thirdly, she believed that a professional organisation to support nursing is essential. Hence the establishment of the Emirates Nursing Association. But she did not stop there. She has helped put Emirates nursing on the international map as a member of the International Council of Nurses.”

The National News of UAE published an article on the ceremony, which can be accessed here

A video celebrating her achievement can be accessed here