Recently, IIHF told about five women who are working to develop ice hockey and attract more and more attention to the sport. One of them is a professional referee from the UAE, Fatima Al Ali

Al Ali breaks down many stereotypes and paves the way for others on and off the ice. She also represents her country as a member of the United Arab Emirates women’s national ice hockey team

Once, at an Abu Dhabi ice rink, famous NHL player Peter Bondra was so surprised by Fatima’s stickhandling, that he posted a viral video with her. Then, she took part in the NHL “Hockey is for Everyone” event, which allowed to train with Washington Capitals players

Fatima Al Ali went down in history as the first Arab girl referee at the IIHF World Championships matches