Unmarried but not searching, an only child… 5 things to know about UAE’s 22-year-old minister

On Wednesday, the United Arab Emirates named Shamma AlMazrui, a 22-year-old Oxford graduate, as its minister of state for youth affairs.

AlMazrui will also be the president of the youth council, representing young people before the government.

In a chat with TheCable, Lawal Yusuf, who was AlMazuri’s colleague at Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford, shared some information about the new government official.

AN ONLY CHILD

AlMazrui, who is from a royal background, is the only child of her parents. Her family has interest in politics across the gulf and also owns oil wells. She is not materialistic despite her family’s wealth.

AVERAGE SOCIAL LIFE 

Her social life is average, according to Yusuf. “She doesn’t party in the sense of night outs, but she is very friendly. She likes fashion but dresses modestly and wears head scarf at all times. She keeps more female friends than guys, but isn’t shy,” he said.

SHE LIKES CHARITY

According to Yusuf, AlMazrui has a strong passion for charitable works. She is also very modest and respectful.

LEFTIST POLITICAL VIEW

Politically, AlMazrui is more left-leaning and she defends her views passionately.

UNMARRIED BUT NOT SEARCHING

The minister, who was one of the youngest between September 2014 and October 2015 when she studied at Oxford, is not married but in a relationship.

Photo Credit: Blavatnik School of Government