100 of the Most Influential Women in Sport >> Arabs

Zahra Lari, UAE

Figure skater

When you think of the UAE, thoughts of soaring temperatures and desert vistas spring to mind. Figure skater Lari is determined to show another side to the nation’s image. The Abu Dhabi-native has made a habit of creating ‘firsts’ ever since she became enthralled by the ‘Ice Princess’ film as a 12-year-old, more than a decade ago. Her rapid success then caused the UAE to become the first Arab state to join the International Skating Union. Aged 16, her international debut at the European Cup in Canazei, Italy saw a point deducted for wearing a headscarf. Lari’s campaign to amend strict regulations surrounding outfits, in a sport famed for its figure-hugging lycra, has already proven successful with the ISU. At the forefront of her thoughts now are becoming the first Emirati to qualify for a Winter Olympics – Beijing is up next in 2022. This achievement would be colossal.

– Lari begins an average day 04:30, packing in training sessions and university commitments.

– She finished eighth at 2018/19’s EduSport Trophy in Romania.

– She is currently completing a degree in environment health and safety at Abu Dhabi University.

Did you know…

Nike asked Lari to help design to the new Pro Hijab, plus front the marketing campaign. She also worked on the brand’s “What Will They Say About You?” campaign in 2017.

“That’s the work I really want to do. Skating is very important to me, but it’s not just about skating anymore—it’s about the message I want to send out to people all over the world.” – Zahra Lari (Source: Vogue Arabia)

Instagram: zahralari