Born on February 22, 1993, in Abu Dhabi, Shamma bint Suhail Faris Al Mazrui has become one of the most influential figures in the modern United Arab Emirates. Her journey is marked by ambition, academic excellence, and a deep passion for social progress.
Academic Brilliance and International Recognition
Shamma holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from NYU Abu Dhabi, graduating with distinction in 2014. Her academic path then led her to Oxford University, where she became the first Emirati to earn a prestigious Rhodes Scholarship. There, she completed a Master’s in Public Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government.
Early Career and Breakthrough into Leadership
Before stepping into government, Shamma gained valuable experience working in both public and private sectors. Her roles included:
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Analyst at the UAE Embassy in Washington, D.C.
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Researcher at Tamkeen, part of the UAE’s Strategic Affairs Authority
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Public policy contributor to the UAE’s mission to the United Nations
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Private equity professional at a sovereign wealth fund
Making History as the Youngest Minister
In 2016, at the age of just 22, Shamma made global headlines by becoming the youngest government minister in the world when she was appointed the UAE’s Minister of State for Youth Affairs. In this role, she championed youth-led initiatives and helped launch:
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The Emirates Youth Council
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Youth Circles — nationwide forums where young people could voice ideas, concerns, and innovations
Current Role: Minister of Community Empowerment
In February 2023, she was appointed Minister of Community Development. A year later, in 2024, the ministry was rebranded as the Ministry of Community Empowerment — a reflection of a deeper national strategy to not only serve communities but to actively empower them.
Today, Shamma focuses on policies and programs that uplift families, empower people with disabilities, support seniors, and enhance social inclusion across the UAE. Her leadership in this area is seen as a cornerstone of the country’s social sustainability efforts.
Additional Leadership and Recognition
Beyond her ministerial work, Shamma is a key figure in several major initiatives:
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Chairperson of the UAE Special Olympics
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Vice-Chair of the Arab Youth Center
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Board member at the Emirates Foundation and the International Institute of Tolerance
She has received numerous awards including the Order of Zayed II (First Class) and the NYUAD Distinguished Alumni Award.
