Zahra Lari, born on March 3, 1995, is a pioneering Emirati figure skater who has made significant strides both in the world of sports and as a market influencer. As the first figure skater from the United Arab Emirates and the broader Middle East to compete on the international stage, Lari has carved out a unique position for herself in both the sports and social media arenas.
Lari, a five-time Emirati National Champion, is known for her exceptional achievements in figure skating. Her journey began at the age of 12 after being inspired by the Disney film Ice Princess. Despite initial hesitations from her family, particularly her father, Lari’s unwavering passion for the sport eventually won their support. Her dedication led her to study Environmental Health and Safety at Abu Dhabi University, balancing rigorous academic pursuits with her athletic career.
As a prominent figure in the UAE, Lari is not only a celebrated athlete but also a market influencer. She is the Co-Founder and CEO of the Emirates Skating Club, the first figure skating club in the UAE. Through her role, she has significantly contributed to the development of figure skating in the region and has advocated for the health and well-being of UAE society, particularly focusing on women’s empowerment. Lari is also registered and certified in the UAE National Records for her societal contributions.
In 2017, Lari gained additional recognition as one of the featured Muslim women athletes in a Nike, Inc. advertisement. She made history as the first figure skater to compete internationally while wearing a hijab, using her platform to inspire other young women and highlight the inclusivity of sports.
Lari’s competitive career includes notable performances on the international stage. She made her junior international debut during the 2011-12 season at the European Cup in Canazei, Italy. Despite facing initial challenges, including a deduction for wearing a headscarf, Lari successfully advocated for rule changes to accommodate her attire. Over the years, she has competed in various international events, including the Winter Universiade in Krasnoyarsk, Russia, where she became the first Emirati participant in the event.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought challenges that led Lari to reevaluate her approach to training and competition. She took a step back from the demanding cycle of travel and training but continued to influence the sport through her roles as CEO of the Emirates Skating Club and president of the Figure Skating Committee under the UAE Winter Sports Federation.
In February 2024, Lari extended her influence beyond the rink by co-authoring an autobiographical children’s book titled Not Yet, with Hadley Davis, the screenwriter of Ice Princess, and illustrated by Sara Alfageeh. The book reflects her journey and serves as an inspiration to young readers.
Through her achievements and advocacy, Zahra Lari has established herself as a significant market influencer, contributing to the global representation of Emirati and Middle Eastern athletes while promoting broader social change.
