The history of science is not only a story of discoveries, but also a story of the people who dared to explore the unknown. Among these pioneers are Arabic women whose work has influenced fields ranging from medicine and education to space exploration.
On International Women’s Day, we reflect on their achievements and celebrate the lasting impact of women in science and innovation. We invite you to join us on a wonderful journey as we highlight some of them.
Dr. Rana Dajani
Science grows strongest when knowledge is shared with society.
This idea is reflected in the work of Rana Dajani, a Jordanian scientist specializing in molecular biology and genetics. Born in Amman, she is a professor at Hashemite University, where her research focuses on genetics and stem cells. Beyond her academic work, she founded the global literacy initiative We Love Reading, a program that promotes reading among children through community-led activities. Through her scientific research and educational initiatives, Dajani has become an influential advocate for science, learning, and social innovation in Jordan and internationally.
Dr. Hessa Al-Jaber
Innovation flourishes when technology connects people and ideas.
This vision is reflected in the career of Hessa Al-Jaber, a pioneering engineer who helped advance digital innovation in Qatar.
“Mathematics is the language through which science understands the world.” This idea is reflected in the work of Ghada Amer, an Egyptian scientist specializing in Engineering Mathematics. She is a professor at Benha University, where she has contributed to research and higher education in mathematics and engineering sciences. Amer has also served in academic leadership roles, including Vice President of the university for community service and environmental development, supporting scientific research and innovation in Egypt.
Educated in computer science at George Washington University, she later served as Qatar’s Minister of Information and Communications Technology (2013–2016), playing a key role in developing the country’s digital infrastructure and technology sector.
Sameera Moussa
The true value of science lies in its ability to serve humanity.
Driven by this vision, Sameera Moussa (1917–1952) became one of the pioneering Arab women in nuclear physics. An outstanding student at Cairo University, she later became the first woman to hold a teaching position in its Faculty of Science. Sameera devoted her research to the peaceful applications of atomic energy and believed that nuclear technology could be used to improve medical treatment, particularly by making cancer therapy more accessible and affordable.
Dr. Ghada Amer
Mathematics is the language through which science understands the world.
This idea is reflected in the work of Ghada Amer, an Egyptian scientist specializing in Engineering Mathematics. She is a professor at Benha University, where she has contributed to research and higher education in mathematics and engineering sciences. Amer has also served in academic leadership roles, including Vice President of the university for community service and environmental development, supporting scientific research and innovation in Egypt.
Sarah Al Amiri
Exploring space begins with the curiosity to understand our universe.
This spirit is reflected in the work of Sarah Al Amiri, a leading scientist in the field of Space Science. She studied computer engineering at the American University of Sharjah and later became a key figure in the country’s space program. Al Amiri served as the science lead for the Emirates Mars Mission, launched in 2020 to study the Martian atmosphere.
Dr. Hayat Sindi
Innovation in science can transform healthcare and improve lives.
This idea is reflected in the work of Hayat Sindi (born 1967), a pioneering scientist from Saudi Arabia specializing in Biotechnology. Educated at the University of Cambridge, she became known for helping develop portable diagnostic medical devices that allow doctors to test patients in remote areas without the need for complex laboratories or electricity. Through her work in biotechnology and scientific innovation, Sindi has contributed to improving access to healthcare and promoting scientific entrepreneurship in the Arab world.
Dr. Merieme Chadid
The mysteries of the universe have always inspired humanity to look toward the stars.
This spirit is reflected in the work of Merieme Chadid (born 1969), a Moroccan scientist specializing in Astrophysics. Born in Casablanca, she became internationally recognized for her research on stellar pulsations and for leading a project to install a telescope in Antarctica to study stars. Her work has contributed to advancing astronomical research and represents an important example of Arab women participating in global scientific exploration.
Scientific progress is the result of generations of curious minds working to understand the world and improve it. The scientists highlighted here reflect this ongoing journey of discovery, reminding us that knowledge advances through dedication, creativity, and the courage to explore new ideas.
We hope that all women can live happy and fulfilling lives, achieving their aspirations in different fields and in their own personal journeys.
