Her Excellency Sheikha Alya bint Ahmed Al Thani, Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations, stands as a true pioneer of modern Arab women diplomacy. On January 19, 2025, she took part in crucial global discussions addressing the protection of the Palestinian people and the urgent call for a ceasefire in Gaza. During these challenging times, HE Sheikha Alya’s leadership has reflected Qatar’s unwavering commitment to peace and reconstruction, showing that Gulf women can lead with compassion, vision, and strength in the face of global unrest.
She is the first Qatari woman to serve as Permanent Representative for Qatar to the United Nations.
In October 2013, HE Sheikha Alya made history as the first Qatari woman appointed as Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations. Before achieving this milestone, she had already broken barriers between 2011 and 2013 as the first woman to serve as Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, where she collaborated with the World Health Organization (WHO). Alongside these roles, she also served as General Consul of Qatar to the Swiss Federation, showcasing her dedication, leadership, and trailblazing spirit that continue to inspire generations of Qatari women.
She is an advocate for women to strive in diplomacy
Sheikha Alya stands as a shining example of how women can excel in international relations and achieve extraordinary success. Proudly representing Arab women on the global stage, she embodies a new era of leadership transforming the Middle East and beyond. With unwavering dedication to diplomacy, she transforms every opportunity into meaningful progress, proving that women can lead with vision, elegance, and strength in every field.
She Was Inspired by her Father
From an early age, Sheikha Alya Bint Ahmed Al Thani was greatly inspired by her father, HE Sheikh Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani, whose service as Qatar’s Ambassador to Sweden and Norway immersed her in the world of diplomacy and global leadership. Surrounded by family conversations about progress, international affairs, and governance, she developed an understanding that true purpose lies in creating a better path for others. Although her journey began toward the later years of her father’s diplomatic career, his unwavering dedication to positive change continues to guide and inspire her.
She plays an active role as a mediator during the conflict
Sheikha Alya, Qatar’s UN Ambassador, has played a key role in mediating the ongoing Gaza conflict. For the past 15 months, she has focused on securing a lasting ceasefire and advancing efforts toward a sustainable peace treaty. Alongside her diplomatic work, she pledged Dhs91 million ($25 million) to the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) to help rebuild affected communities and support those impacted across the Near East. Her efforts embody compassion, determination, and Qatar’s steadfast dedication to regional peace and stability.
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