H.E. Aarefa Saleh Al Falahi
Board Member, RAK Chamber of Commerce
H.E. Aarefa Saleh Al Falahi is a pioneering Emirati leader, recognised for her extensive contributions across banking, commerce, public service, and community development. As a Board Member of the RAK Chamber of Commerce, she plays a key role in advancing economic growth, supporting private sector collaboration, and promoting innovation within the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.
H.E. Aarefa made history as the first Emirati woman to serve as a Bank Manager in RAK city, setting a powerful precedent for women’s leadership in the UAE’s financial sector. Her distinguished career is defined by resilience, integrity, and a profound commitment to national development.
Her governance and advisory roles span a wide array of institutions, including:
• Board Member, RAK Insurance Company
• Board Member, Gulf Cement Company
• Board Member, RAK SME Association
• Former Board Member, Emirates Sports & Cultural Club (June 2021 – June 2023)
• Board Member, UAE Scout Association
• Board Member, Al Mataf Traditional Boat Rowing Art Society
• Board Member, Vilal Housing Company
She also contributes to higher education and industrial strategy as:
• Member, Business Industrial Academic Council Committee – HCT UAE
• Member, Computer Information Sciences Industrial Advisory Committee – HCT, RAK
A champion of women’s leadership, she is an active member of the Women on Board Circle (2020), launched under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, advocating for increased female representation at board level across the UAE. Additionally, she is the Ambassador for Srilions Company and Chairman of Emirates Sports Club Ambassadors, where she supports regional youth and community engagement through sport.
Honours & Recognitions:
• Awarded the prestigious Service Society Medal by H.H. Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan for her exemplary social service and public engagement.
• Recognised among the Top 50 Women in Leadership by the Sri Lankan Council, highlighting her international influence and commitment to women’s empowerment.
• H.E. Aarefa continues to inspire as a visionary leader whose work bridges corporate, civic, and cultural sectors in service of the UAE’s long-term development.
