In a landmark moment for gender representation within the UAE's law enforcement, Dubai Police have promoted Colonel Samira Abdullah Al Ali to the rank of Brigadier — making her the first woman to hold the title since the force's founding in 1956. With a career spanning 31 years, Brigadier Al Ali’s journey is a powerful narrative of dedication, innovation, and resilience. She joined Dubai Police in 1994 after beginning her career in a private insurance and reinsurance company.

Her transition to policing was sparked by a newspaper advertisement, which led her to enroll in the Dubai Police Academy. During her training, her academic background in insurance caught the attention of retired Major General Jasim Belramitha, who encouraged her to join Dubai Police’s nascent insurance division. Starting with just two colleagues in a small office, she played a pivotal role in building what is now a fully integrated Insurance Department, handling policies across all police assets. #News | 31-Year Dubai Police Veteran Samira Al Ali Makes History with Brigadier Promotion Details:https://t.co/6dXgcug1xv#EmiratiWomenEmpowerment#FirstFemaleBrigadier pic.twitter.com/HJRo9VtYE1 — Dubai Policeشرطة دبي (@DubaiPoliceHQ) July 27, 2025 “No other police agency in the UAE has a dedicated Insurance Department like ours,” she remarked, underlining the department’s unique role in institutional operations, as per Khaleej Times.

Over the years, Brigadier Al Ali shattered gender norms, becoming the first woman to work at the General Department of Transport and Rescue, and has since received 392 medals, badges, and certificates, alongside leading award-winning safety initiatives such as "SAND" and "Safe Driving Stars." “This promotion is a source of pride for every woman in Dubai Police,” she repotedly said, dedicating her success to the organisation’s commitment to empowering women. “With faith and effort, everything is possible.”