Rooted in Heritage, Shaped by Learning: Dr. Salma Thani’s Story
In a world where knowledge shapes nations and culture defines identity, Dr. Salma Thani stands as a remarkable example of how education and heritage can come together to inspire transformation. Rooted in the values of her homeland yet shaped by global experiences, her journey reflects the evolution of the UAE itself, one that blends tradition, progress, and purpose.
From a childhood surrounded by mountains and the warmth of close family ties to the lecture halls of Monash University in Australia, Dr. Salma’s path has been guided by curiosity, discipline, and a deep desire to understand the world beyond borders. Her story is not only about academic excellence but about discovering the strength that comes from staying true to one’s roots while embracing new perspectives.
Today, as an Assistant Professor of Gulf Studies at the American University of Sharjah, she continues to bridge the local and the global, nurturing young minds, preserving Emirati narratives, and ensuring that regional voices are heard on the world stage. Her life is a reflection of balance: between teaching and learning, family and career, tradition and innovation.
Through this conversation, readers will discover how Dr. Salma Thani transformed her early inspirations into a lifelong mission of education and cultural preservation, and how her journey continues to empower others to find purpose in knowledge, resilience, and community.
Roots and Beginnings
Tell us about your early life, education, and career journey.
I was born and raised in the UAE, on the eastern side of the country where the mountains were right on my doorstep. My childhood was adventurous, most weekends were spent fishing, camping, or going to the beach with my extended family. Weekend picnics were a big part of my early years. My siblings, cousins, and I loved being taken to the parks to play games together. Back then, malls were few, only Al Ghurair, Al Mulla Plaza, and BurJuman in Dubai, and I preferred being outdoors rather than spending time inside shopping centers. I grew up witnessing the transformation of the UAE, watching sand dunes give way to skyscrapers, luxury villas, and modern malls.
As a child, I was quite introverted and spent most of my time with my siblings and cousins. My parents, especially my father, were my biggest sources of support and inspiration. We were a close-knit family, and I didn’t often seek friends outside that circle. My father, who was passionate about learning and current affairs, spent hours reading newspapers and discussing world events with us. Listening to him talk about global issues, society, and politics sparked my curiosity from a young age. One day, he suggested I become a doctor, but by then, he had already inspired my love for international affairs and understanding how the world works.
I attended Sharjah Higher Colleges of Technology, mostly because it was close to home, but it turned out to be a life-changing experience. It was there that I began to come out of my shell and find my voice. My professors believed in me even before I believed in myself. They encouraged me to take part in extracurricular activities and leadership opportunities, which helped me gain confidence and discover my potential. That’s when I realized I wanted to pursue higher education abroad.
After graduating, I moved to Melbourne, Australia, where I earned both my Master’s and PhD degrees from Monash University. I later worked there for several years, teaching courses in international studies, the field I’m most passionate about. I lived in Australia for nearly a decade, and it truly became my second home. The experience broadened my perspective and shaped the person and educator I am today.
Teaching with Purpose
What is your current role, and what do you enjoy most about your work?
I’m currently an Assistant Professor of Gulf Studies at the American University of Sharjah. In my role, I teach and research topics related to the history, culture, and politics of the Gulf region, subjects that are very close to my heart. I enjoy creating a learning environment where students can connect what they study in class to the world around them.
What I love most about my work is that it’s not just about teaching, it’s about learning together. Every discussion, question, or project gives me a new perspective. I feel proud when I see my students grow, think critically, and begin to appreciate the value of our culture and heritage in shaping who we are today.
As an Emirati woman and scholar, I’m also deeply committed to contributing to my field by bringing local perspectives into the study of Gulf Studies. I believe it’s important that our own voices and experiences are part of how the region is understood and represented. Through my teaching and research, I hope to give back to my community and contribute to society in a meaningful way.
Connecting Generations
What has been your proudest professional accomplishment?
One of my proudest professional accomplishments has been leading a research project that documents the oral histories of Sharjah. The project brings together my students and members of the local community to record the personal stories of elders who lived through the emirate’s transformation.
What makes me proud is not just the research itself, but how it connects generations. My students learn directly from the people who shaped our history, and those voices become part of how we understand the UAE’s story today. It reminds me why I chose this field, to preserve our culture, share our narratives, and make knowledge meaningful beyond the classroom.
I’m also proud of receiving several research grants that have supported my work on the UAE’s political, social, and cultural transformation. These grants have allowed me to build partnerships with local institutions and involve students in real research experiences. My publications explore themes of soft power, national identity, sport, tourism, and development, always connecting research to real community needs. Each project, grant, and publication has been a step toward sharing Emirati perspectives and contributing meaningfully to the field of Gulf Studies.
Balancing Life and Work
What is one major challenge you’ve faced in your career, and how did you overcome it?
One of the ongoing challenges I face in my career is finding balance, between being a mother, an academic, and an active member of my community. Academia is deeply rewarding, but it’s also demanding. Many people assume that professors have long breaks or an easier schedule, but in reality, the work never really stops. It’s a constant cycle of teaching, mentoring students, preparing classes, conducting research, applying for grants, attending conferences, and publishing papers. As academics often say, “publish or perish”, and that pressure is real.
At the same time, as an Emirati woman, I hold strong family and social responsibilities. Family gatherings and community events are an important part of who we are, and I value that deeply. Yet, balancing those commitments with the expectations of academic life can be challenging.
I wouldn’t say I’ve fully overcome this challenge, it’s more of an ongoing process. I’ve learned to set boundaries, prioritize what truly matters, and remind myself that it’s okay not to do everything at once. Being a mother has also taught me patience, empathy, and perspective, qualities that have made me a better teacher and scholar. It’s a journey of constant adjustment, but one that keeps me grounded and grateful.
Learning Beyond Boundaries
How do you stay ahead in your industry?
I’ve always believed that the best way to stay ahead is to stay curious. Curiosity has been my constant guide; it pushes me to read widely, explore new perspectives, and never stop asking questions. I enjoy attending academic conferences, not just for the knowledge shared, but for the conversations that spark new ideas. I learn as much from my students and colleagues as they might from me; every discussion, every classroom moment offers a chance to see the world differently. Collaboration keeps people, ideas, and a sense of purpose connected.
I’ve never felt the need to compete with anyone. For me, growth isn’t a race. It’s a personal journey. I believe that if I’ve come this far, I can always go further. That mindset keeps me motivated and open to learning from every experience. For me, staying ahead has never been about competition, but about staying connected to learning, to growth, and to the world around me.
Wisdom for Growth
What advice would you give to young professionals aiming for success?
My advice to young professionals is to stay curious, humble, and open to learning. Success doesn’t come overnight, it’s a journey of growth, patience, and self-discovery. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes or change directions; every experience teaches you something valuable.
Find meaning in what you do and remember why you started. In the rush to achieve, don’t lose sight of your values or the people around you. Build genuine connections, seek mentors, and support others along the way.
And most importantly, never stop learning. Knowledge doesn’t end with a degree, it’s something you build through conversations, experiences, and reflection. True success, I believe, is not just about personal achievement but about contributing to something larger than yourself and making a positive impact on others.
Conclusion
Dr. Salma Thani’s journey is a powerful reminder that success is not defined by titles or milestones, but by purpose and impact. Her life reflects the quiet strength of a woman who has turned her passion for learning into a force for cultural preservation and academic excellence.
Through her research, teaching, and community engagement, she continues to illuminate the stories that shaped the Gulf and its people. In doing so, she not only preserves history but inspires a new generation to think critically, act with integrity, and remain connected to their identity in an ever-changing world.
Her path, from the mountains of her childhood to the classrooms of Sharjah and the lecture halls of Australia, is one of transformation, perseverance, and deep commitment to knowledge. It is a journey that speaks to the power of education as a bridge between cultures and as a catalyst for progress.
As Dr. Salma Thani continues to guide and empower others, her story stands as an enduring testament to what it means to lead with authenticity, curiosity, and heart. Her voice, rooted in both heritage and hope, reminds us that learning is not simply an academic pursuit, it is a lifelong act of building, connecting, and giving back.
Website: https://www.aus.edu/faculty/salma-thani
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-salma-thani-5470a03a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.salmathani
Twitter (X): https://x.com/salma_thani
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