On the basis of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa's keenness and interest in the status of Bahraini women, Royal Order No. (5) of 2004 was issued to establish Her Royal Highness Princess Sabika Bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa Award for the empowerment of Bahraini women. 

The award is held every two years to honor the best governmental entities and private institutions in the fields of supporting and empowering Bahraini working women. In 2019 Royal Decree No. (17) of 2019 amending some provisions of Royal Order No. (5) of 2004 by changing the name of the Award to Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa Award for the Advancement of Bahraini Women (Arabic only). New award categories were presented for Civil society and individuals, in addition to the private sector organizations, in order to support and encourage incentive policies for gender balance programs, support women's advancement of positions and decision-making positions, and create a supportive and gender-sensitive environment in the work programs of public and private institutions.