Zahra Lari: Breaking the Ice for Muslim Women in Figure Skating
In the shimmering world of figure skating, where elegance meets athleticism, few names have made as unique and impactful a mark as Zahra Lari, the first figure skater from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the first internationally recognized hijabi skater. With graceful spins and powerful determination, Zahra not only brought the UAE into the global skating arena but also redefined what it means to be a Muslim woman in competitive sports.
Early Life and Background
Zahra Lari was born on March 3, 1995, in the United Arab Emirates, into a supportive and progressive family. Of Emirati-American descent, she grew up in a culture rich in tradition, but also in a household that encouraged education, ambition, and passion. From an early age, Zahra displayed an interest in ice skating, an unusual passion in a country better known for its deserts than ice rinks.
Her fascination with figure skating began after watching the Disney movie Ice Princess when she was 12. She was inspired by the beauty and skill of the sport and begged her father to let her try skating. Initially, it was just a hobby—a weekend activity—but soon it blossomed into a burning ambition.
Breaking Cultural and Sporting Barriers
When Zahra started skating seriously, she faced several challenges—not only from the demands of the sport itself but also from societal norms and limited infrastructure. Ice skating was practically unheard of in the UAE. There were very few ice rinks and almost no training programs to develop competitive skaters. Nevertheless, Zahra pursued her dream with determination, training daily before and after school, often traveling to Europe and the United States for professional coaching and competitions.
One of Zahra’s most defining traits is her decision to skate while wearing a hijab, the Islamic headscarf. In the early years of her international career, this created friction with judges and sporting bodies unfamiliar with seeing a hijabi figure skater. In her first International Skating Union (ISU) competition in Italy in 2012, Zahra was penalized for her attire, receiving a deduction for “unauthorized clothing.”
Rather than back down, Zahra took a stand. Along with her family and team, she worked tirelessly to appeal the decision, arguing that her hijab was an essential part of her identity and religious expression. Eventually, the ISU amended its rules, allowing headscarves in official competitions. Zahra Lari made history as the first figure skater to compete internationally in a hijab, turning a moment of exclusion into one of global inclusion.
Athletic Achievements and Career Milestones
Zahra began competing in international competitions in her late teens. She quickly became known not just for her unique story but also for her skill, elegance, and discipline. She represented the UAE at several international championships, including the Asian Winter Games, Islamic Solidarity Games, and Winter Universiade.
Though she did not qualify for the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, her attempt marked a monumental moment for the UAE and for Muslim women in sports. She was the first Emirati woman to attempt Olympic qualification in figure skating—an act that inspired a generation of girls to dream bigger.
Zahra’s skating style blends classical artistry with modern athletic prowess. Her routines often feature emotional storytelling, fluid movement, and technically challenging elements like spins, jumps, and footwork sequences. Beyond medals and rankings, her greatest legacy lies in representation and breaking down cultural barriers in sports.
Education and Personal Development
While pursuing a demanding athletic career, Zahra also maintained a strong academic focus. She studied Environmental Health and Safety at Abu Dhabi University, underscoring her commitment to education and social responsibility. This balance between sports and studies has made her a role model not only for aspiring athletes but also for young people seeking to excel in multiple fields.
Her family has played a crucial role in her journey. Zahra’s father, Fadhel Lari, has been her biggest supporter, accompanying her to training sessions, competitions, and media events. His support has been essential in a society where women’s participation in certain sports is still emerging.
A Global Role Model
Zahra Lari’s story gained international attention, and soon she found herself featured in global media, including CNN, BBC, ESPN, and The New York Times. She also became a Nike brand ambassador, appearing in the groundbreaking “What Will They Say About You?” campaign, which celebrated Muslim women pushing boundaries in sports.
As a Nike athlete, Zahra helped design and promote the Nike Pro Hijab, an innovative piece of athletic wear designed for Muslim women athletes. Her collaboration with Nike further amplified her influence, helping bridge the gap between global brands and modest fashion requirements.
Advocating for Change
Zahra has consistently used her platform to advocate for the inclusion of women in sports, especially those from conservative or underrepresented backgrounds. She emphasizes the importance of access, visibility, and cultural sensitivity in making sports a space where all can thrive. She speaks frequently at conferences, schools, and events, sharing her story and encouraging young girls to follow their passions, no matter how unconventional.
She is also a co-founder of the Emirates Skating Club, aimed at developing figure skating in the UAE. Through coaching, mentorship, and infrastructure development, she is laying the groundwork for future generations of Emirati skaters.
Legacy and Future
Though Zahra Lari may not yet have an Olympic medal, her impact on the world of figure skating—and sports in general—is profound. She has proven that one does not need to conform to traditional norms to excel in elite athletic competition. Her commitment to faith, identity, and excellence in sport makes her a unique figure on and off the ice.
Her legacy is already visible in the growing number of young girls—especially in the Middle East—taking up figure skating. Whether it’s the small girl stepping onto the rink for the first time in her hijab, or the aspiring athlete dreaming of the Olympics, Zahra’s influence is clear and enduring.
Conclusion
Zahra Lari is much more than a figure skater. She is a trailblazer, an advocate, a role model, and a change-maker. Her journey from the deserts of the UAE to international ice rinks is a testament to the power of dreams, the importance of representation, and the resilience required to break barriers.
In a sport defined by precision and poise, Zahra Lari added something new: purpose. And that, perhaps, is the most beautiful spin of all.
Published: 20th August 2025
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