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"Retail Work Addresses: The Strategies Emirati Women Employ to Overcome Obstacles in Their Profession"

In celebration of Emirati Women's Day, Khaleej Times delves into the required qualities to succeed in the dynamic service sector, a field with its own set of challenges.

"Emirati Women's Determined Ventures in Retail Industry: Overcoming Professional Obstacles"
"Emirati Women's Determined Ventures in Retail Industry: Overcoming Professional Obstacles"

"Retail Work Addresses: The Strategies Emirati Women Employ to Overcome Obstacles in Their Profession"

As the UAE marks Emirati Women's Day, we take a closer look at three inspiring women who are making their mark in the service sector. From retail to journalism, these women demonstrate resilience, passion, and a commitment to continuous learning.

Afraa Adam: From Sales to Logistics

Afraa Adam, a 29-year-old from Umm Al Quwain, has been in the service industry for three years. After transitioning from sales to logistics, Afraa now oversees warehouse operations and collaborates closely with the retail store. She emphasizes the importance of continuous growth and learning from every interaction, whether rewarding or challenging.

Afraa initially found multitasking challenging, but learned to prioritize tasks and remain calm under pressure. She underscores the rewarding aspects of her work, particularly customer interactions and helping clients find what they need.

Maryam Mohammed: A Dedicated Retail Professional

Maryam Mohammed, a senior sales assistant in Marks & Spencer Dubai Mall, has dedicated over 12 years to the retail sector. She supervises the men's and lingerie departments and enjoys interacting with people from different backgrounds and nationalities, which her job allows her to do every day.

Maryam faces challenges, including a long commute between her home in Fujairah and her workplace. However, she has learned to manage her time effectively and maintain a positive attitude. The diversity of customers and colleagues has helped Maryam learn more about people, cultures, and communication, and build her skills and gain experience.

Noora: A Rising Star in Retail Management

Noora, a 39-year-old from Dubai, joined Marks & Spencer Dubai Mall in 2022 as deputy store manager and advanced to the role of store manager within a year. Her passion for retail began with her first job at Duty Free.

Noora believes that retail is not only about selling products, but also about making people feel valued, seen, and supported. She overcame challenges in her career by staying confident, embracing feedback, and continuously learning from every situation.

Noora recalls a particular client interaction where she helped a sad customer and ended up creating a meaningful connection with her. This experience reinforces Noora's belief that retail is about more than just transactions—it's about building relationships.

Noora's message to her fellow Emirati women is to believe in themselves and their abilities, and to work with confidence, determination, and dedication. Her career progression within the retail sector is an example of thriving in the ever-evolving service sector in the UAE.

Ruqayya Alqaydi: A Curious and Passionate Journalist

Ruqayya Alqaydi, a Special Correspondent for Khaleej Times, is known for her endless curiosity and passion for journalism. Often described as being like a journalist "on a caffeine overdrive", Ruqayya delves deeper into what it takes to thrive in the service sector in the UAE, which comes with its own challenges.

As we celebrate Emirati Women's Day, these women serve as inspiring examples of women who are making their mark in various sectors of the UAE's service industry. Their stories remind us that with resilience, passion, and a commitment to continuous learning, women in the UAE can achieve success in any field they aspire to.

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