From developing major highways to renewing maritime law: Meet UAE’s first female urban planner

The UAE’s rapid rise as a global hub for infrastructure, innovation, and maritime excellence is shaped by visionary leaders—among them, Hessa Al Malek, one of the most influential Emirati women redefining the nation’s development landscape.

From developing major highways to renewing maritime law, Al Malek’s journey reflects resilience, ambition, and a deep commitment to national progress. Today, as Advisor to the Minister for Maritime Transport Affairs at the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, she stands as a trailblazer and the first female leader in the Middle East’s maritime sector.

A Trailblazer from Ras Al Khaimah

Born and raised in Ras Al Khaimah, Al Malek grew up when the Emirate lacked the urban development we see today. Education for women—especially in technical fields—was uncommon. Yet, her determination guided her path.

“Being an educated woman at the time was challenging, especially when I pursued architecture,” she recalls. With parental approval still required for women entering male-dominated disciplines, her resolve stood firm.

Her journey began in architecture but quickly evolved. She soon joined the Ministry of Infrastructure as a site engineer—breaking another barrier in a profession rarely open to women due to safety and cultural perceptions.

UAE’s First Female Urban & Traffic Planner

In 2005, Al Malek earned her master’s degree from the American University of Sharjah, becoming the first female urban and traffic planner in the UAE. Her unique expertise quickly made her indispensable.

“As I was the only one with a degree in urban planning, I led the team to understand community needs,” she says.

Her work focused on transforming underserved villages into fully developed urban areas—introducing infrastructure, services, and opportunities that laid the foundation for emerging cities.

Her leadership also shaped workplace culture:
“It was crucial to create an environment where women could thrive without compromising their femininity,” she notes. Her advocacy contributed to improved career pathways for women in engineering and planning.

Building the Nation’s Roads: Director of Highways

Al Malek later became the first woman to serve as Highway Director. During her tenure, she oversaw major projects including:

• Highway 311 (Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road)
• Highway 611 (Emirates Road)

For eight years she supervised the development of critical infrastructure that strengthened national connectivity and economic growth.

Her success led to another milestone: becoming Undersecretary for Public Works, responsible for UAE government buildings, roads, hospitals, and schools.

A New Calling: Maritime Transformation

Her shift to the maritime sector began unexpectedly while serving as Director of Land Transport.

“I saw maritime as a promising field with vast opportunities,” she explains. Despite having no background, she voiced her interest directly to the Minister—who was initially surprised.

Her six-month trial in maritime became a permanent calling.
“Since 2014, I’ve been leading the maritime sector,” she says with pride.

Today, she has become a leading figure shaping national and international maritime policy.

Renewing Maritime Law After Four Decades

One of her greatest achievements was modernising the UAE’s maritime law—unchanged since 1982.

“Now, we have a new maritime law, and we’ve become a member of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO),” she says.
This landmark achievement reinforces the UAE’s status as:

• A global logistics powerhouse
• A trusted maritime influencer
• A leader in international maritime standards

Empowering Women in the Maritime Industry

Despite tremendous progress, women remain underrepresented in global maritime leadership.

“When I started, it was rare to see female engineers on site. Now it’s still rare to find women in maritime leadership,” she admits.

Yet, she sees limitless opportunities:
“Maritime careers go far beyond being a captain—they include policy, environmental protection, media, innovation, and more.”

Her advocacy is clear through initiatives such as:

• UAE Maritime Week
• Youth and women outreach programmes
• Participation in Emirati Women Achievers Awards 2024

Al Malek actively encourages young Emiratis, especially women, to explore the maritime sector’s diverse roles.

Future Challenges: Building National Maritime Expertise

Although the UAE is a global maritime leader, Al Malek highlights a major concern—foreign dominance in maritime services.

“About 99% of marine service providers are foreign-owned,” she notes. This dependency poses long-term risks for national capability and economic resilience.

Her focus for the coming years includes:

• Developing local expertise
• Encouraging Emirati entrepreneurship
• Promoting maritime education and training
• Attracting more women and youth into the sector

A Legacy of Progress and Inspiration

Hessa Al Malek’s journey—from Ras Al Khaimah to national and international leadership—embodies the UAE’s spirit of ambition, innovation, and inclusivity.

Her work has:

• Transformed infrastructure
• Modernised maritime legislation
• Elevated the UAE’s global maritime standing
• Paved the way for women in engineering and transport
• Inspired future generations to dream bigger

As the UAE continues to strengthen its maritime ambitions and expand its global footprint, leaders like Al Malek remain at the forefront—shaping policy, driving innovation, and empowering the next generation.

“I’m proud to be part of this journey,” she says—and the nation is equally proud to have her leading the way.