- Led by Huda M. Al Matroushi, the first female Emirati mechanic, Continental hosts educational workshop at BestDrive, Dubai
- The event equipped attendees with essential skills through an interactive session, instructing them on a wide range of issues
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Continental recently partnered with Huda M. Al Matroushi, the first female Emirati car mechanic, to spread awareness among women on key automotive safety topics, including how to deal with on-road emergencies and basic car maintenance. The collaboration is part of Continental’s global commitment to empower women, and to achieve its Vision Zero goal: Zero Fatalities, Zero Injuries, Zero Crashes.
Al Matroushi, who has created history undertaking her personal automotive journey, led a female-focused educational workshop that delved into her remarkable achievement in what has been a traditionally male-dominated industry. Attendees also received a comprehensive introduction to essential car maintenance and the importance of tyre safety. The workshop fostered a vibrant exchange of personal experiences and shed light on the evolving landscape of the industry.
Commenting on her involvement with Continental, Al Matroushi said: “Inspiring women to take charge of their vehicles and ensuring their safety on the road is a mission close to my heart. Together with Continental, we are looking to break barriers and shatter stereotypes, ensuring that women can excel in any field they choose. Through knowledge and skill, we’re driving towards a future where every woman feels confident and empowered behind the wheel.”
The partnership with Al Matroushi is one of a number of unique initiatives undertaken by Continental across the Middle East in achieving its Vision Zero goal. The brand has partnered with influencers, educational establishments, driving institutes and government organisations to instil these key messages in current and future drivers across the region.
“At Continental, safety takes precedence as our utmost priority, and we wholeheartedly endorse ground-breaking initiatives that foster a robust road safety culture throughout society. Our enduring partnerships with different stakeholders across the region provides us with the perfect team to help us achieve our Vision Zero objective in unique and engaging ways. Moreover, we strive to inspire women to assume pivotal roles in driving forward this safety-oriented culture,” remarked Karel Kucera, Managing Director of Continental Middle East.
Following the informative workshop, attendees had the chance to immerse themselves in a state-of-the-art AI Driving Hub. Created by AI Driving Metaverse Group, this cutting-edge simulator harnesses artificial intelligence to analyse the psycho-physiological characteristics of drivers, utilising biometric and sensor data, a Digital Twin, patented motion platform, and customisable road scenarios.
“We have been part of the Continental family for many years and BestDrive supports the brand’s unwavering dedication to safety and women’s empowerment, as we prioritise the safety of our customers through our products and services, while also offering ongoing support to all community groups,” said Shaun Smith, Group General Manager, Al Masaood & Sons Automotive.
About Continental:
Continental develops pioneering technologies and services for sustainable and connected mobility of people and their goods. Founded in 1871, the technology company offers safe, efficient, intelligent and affordable solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic and transportation. In 2022, Continental generated sales of €39.4 billion and currently employs more than 200,000 people in 57 countries and markets. On October 8, 2022, the company celebrated its 151st anniversary.
The Tires group sector has 24 production and development locations worldwide. Continental is one of the leading tire manufacturers with 57,000 employees and posted sales of €14 billion in 2022 in this group sector. Continental ranks among the technology leaders in tire production and offers a broad product range for passenger cars, commercial and special-purpose vehicles as well as two-wheelers. Through continuous investment in research and development, Continental makes a major contribution to safe, cost effective and ecologically efficient mobility. The portfolio of the tire business includes services for the tire trade and fleet applications, as well as digital management systems for tires.
About BestDrive:
BestDrive has been a leading tyre retail brand in Europe and in Asia since 2006. Jointly developed by the tyre division of Continental, and the Continental Corporation’s trade division, ContiTrade, BestDrive focuses on delivering an exceptional service experience.
From a local perspective, BestDrive is managed by ContiTrade, which is responsible for Continental’s tyre fitment, retail and franchise operations.
