A PhD in Epidemiological Psychiatry from the University of London, earned in 1992, established the professional trajectory for Rafia Ghubash. Born in Dubai in 1956, she transitioned from clinical practice to academic administration, holding significant leadership roles across the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain while advocating for the increased participation of women in scientific disciplines.
Academic and Clinical Foundations
Ghubash completed her education at Cairo University and the University of London. Following her doctoral studies, she joined the United Arab Emirates University School of Medicine in Al Ain as an assistant professor of psychiatry. Her career spanned both clinical psychiatry and epidemiology, fields she practiced while contributing to the development of medical education within the region.
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Between 2000 and 2009, Ghubash served as the president of the Arabian Gulf University in Bahrain. Beyond this university post, she became a council member for the World Future Council in 2006. She currently acts as the president of the Arab Network for Women in Science and Technology, an organization focused on supporting women in leadership roles and fostering female participation in science.
Museums and Cultural Documentation
In 2012, Ghubash utilized her childhood residence in Dubai to establish The Women’s Museum, also known as Bait al Banat or House of Women. This facility displays the historical achievements of Emirati women. Her commitment to documenting regional history extends to publishing, including the 2018 Encyclopedia of an Emirati Woman, which she co-authored with Mariam Sultan Lootah, and biographical works regarding Ousha Bint Hussein Lootah and her brother, Hussein Ghobash.
Professional Recognition
The medical and academic communities have acknowledged her contributions through several honors. She received the Hamdan Award for medical and health-related work for the 2003-2004 period and was named Inspirational Arab Woman of the Year in 2015. Additionally, she served as a judge for the Arab Women Award in 2017, further engaging with initiatives that highlight female contributions in the Middle East.
Fast facts
- Born: 1956, Dubai
- Citizenship: United Arab Emirates
- Academic Training: Cairo University, University of London
- Field: Epidemiological Psychiatry
- Museum Founded: The Women’s Museum, Bait al Banat, 2012
- Presidential Role: Arabian Gulf University, 2000-2009
Questions readers ask
What is the focus of the Arab Network for Women in Science and Technology?
The organization works to assist female scientists in securing leadership positions and to encourage more women to enter scientific fields.
What kind of literature has Rafia Ghubash published?
She has written biographies, including a book about poet Ousha Bint Hussein Lootah and her brother Hussein Ghobash, as well as the Encyclopedia of an Emirati Woman.
Achievements
- Held posts at Arabian Gulf University and United Arab Emirates University
- Fields: epidemiology
