A trailblazer in the UAE's maritime sector, Hessa Al Malek has held diverse roles in public works and transportation throughout her extensive career. Currently, she serves as an advisor to the Minister for Maritime Transport Affairs at the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. This Emirati leader has become a pivotal voice in formulating maritime policies and strategies that drive the sector's growth both nationally and internationally.
As the first female leader in the Middle East's maritime industry, Al Malek's vision and leadership are spearheading transformative initiatives that position the UAE as a global maritime hub. She actively promotes the importance of diverse talent, recognizing the necessity of both men and women in a field historically dominated by male professionals, to fully unlock the sector's potential.
Born and raised in Ras Al Khaimah, Al Malek's early years were marked by the challenges of growing up in a less developed Emirate. 'Being an educated woman at the time was a bit challenging, especially when I pursued my studies to become an architect,' she recalls. Initially starting her career as an architect, she soon realized the need for a more hands-on approach and transitioned to working as a site engineer at the Ministry of Infrastructure.
Al Malek's academic journey culminated in a master's degree from the American University of Sharjah, where she became the first female to graduate as an urban and traffic planner in 2005. As she transitioned into leadership roles, Al Malek continued to advocate for women in the workforce, creating environments where women could thrive without compromising their femininity.
Her career trajectory continued to ascend, leading her to become the Highway Director and later the Undersecretary for Public Works. It was during her tenure at the Transportation Authority that Al Malek's interest in the maritime sector began to flourish. Her tenacity paid off, and she has been leading the maritime sector since 2014, shaping maritime policies and positioning the UAE as a key player in the global landscape.
One of Al Malek's most significant achievements in the sector has been the renewal of maritime law, which had been in place since 1982. 'Now, we have a new maritime law, and we’ve became a member of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO),' she beams with pride. 'This shows that the UAE is now highly regarded in the maritime sector.'
Reflecting on her experiences, Al Malek acknowledges the transformation of the UAE's landscape over the years. 'When I first started, it was rare to see a female engineer on construction sites. Now, it’s still rare to find women in leadership roles in the maritime sector.' However, she remains deeply committed to expanding opportunities for women in the maritime sector.
Despite its achievements, the UAE’s maritime sector continues to face challenges, particularly the reliance on foreign companies for maritime services. To address this, the UAE is actively working to foster local talent and encourage Emirati participation in the maritime industry. Al Malek remains dedicated to championing inclusivity and innovation in the maritime industry, inspiring the next generation of leaders to navigate new waters.
