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    Everything you need to know about the cast of Netflix’s Dubai Bling

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    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    A reality show dedicated to the emirate of Dubai has come back to Netflix this month.
    Dubai Bling Season 2 is set to bring a fair dose of drama to our screens whilst showcasing the high life of the emirate – from cars to exotic resorts to lavish properties to avant-garde fashion.
    After the excitement for the release and the official launch party at The Dubai Edition, Emirates Woman got to meet the cast face to face and interacted with the stars in reality in October 2022.
    As the show has made a comeback,  let’s take a look at who the main protagonists on the show are.
    Kris Fade

    The Australian-Lebanese host has become a household name in the country after establishing himself as a leading radio jockey. From hosting his own breakfast show, The Kris Fade Show, to being the MC at renowned events, he has gained traction worldwide and inspired his audience through various segments of his show and other kind gestures.
    Farhana Bodi

    After starting a page as a fashion content creator, Farhana Bodi has gone on to grow herself a worldwide following of over 1.4 million.
    Marwan Al-Awadhi

    As the first Emirati DJ to make waves in the region, Marwan Al-Awadhi is now widely known by his stage name, DJ Bliss. Along with his wife, the duo will be the first Emiratis to appear on this reality TV show.
    Brianna Fade

    As a strong support system to Kris Fade, she is also the brand manager at Fade Fit. After leading several brand activations and getting the brand recognised on a global level.
    Lojain Omran

    This Saudi Arabian TV presenter and social media personality has carved a niche for herself in the industry. After achieving success in various spheres, she also ensures she gives back to society as a noble humanitarian.
    Loujain Adada

    Lebanese model and former MTV presenter, Loujain Adadah, has made a mark for herself in the world of media.
    Safa Siddiqui

    This handbag enthusiast and keen fashion lover is all set to take the show by storm with her sartorial flair. From iconic silhouettes to key pieces, she meticulously styles her pieces with each look making an impression wherever she goes.
    Zeina Khoury

    As CEO of Highmark Real Estate, Zeina Khoury is one of the leading real-estate moguls in the UAE market. With her expert insight into properties and luxury new havens, her skills have taken her to the heights she is at today.
    Ebraheem Al Samadi

    Kuwaiti-American Ebraheem Al Samadi entrepreneur and CEO of Forever Rose has established himself in the world of flowers. With a keen passion for what he does, the businessman started working at the age of 13 and has proved that no vision is too hard to accomplish.
    Danya Mohammed

    Known as Diva Dee, Danya Mohammed is the first Emirati female reality TV star to air on the show. With a keen interest in fashion, her style and passion for content creation are clearly shown on her feed.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      Founder of Impact School, Lauren Tickner on taking a risk thinking outside the box

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      Millionaire by 23, Founder of Impact School, Lauren Tickner talks to Emirates Woman about thinking outside the box and scaling using a smart mindset.
      What do your first 30 mins of the day look like, your morning routine?
      This really depends where I am in the world. Because I travel a lot and my team members are primarily in the UK and USA, my mornings in the UAE look very different to my mornings in South America. When I’m in Dubai, I have 4-6 hours of uninterrupted time when no one else is online where I write, go to the gym, and do deep focused work. When I’m in US time zones, I have calls starting as early as 6am so I do 5-10 mins of stretching, then go out for a walk where I take my calls. Either way, morning meditation (I like Joe Dispenza) is a non-negotiable for me.
      How did you know it was the right time to launch your platform and what made you finally take the leap of faith?
      If I’d waited until the right time, I probably still wouldn’t have started now! Back when I got started (almost a decade ago now), my single aim was to connect with other people who were working towards the same goals. Through sharing what I was doing on social media, people began asking me for coaching. I was resistant to doing so for three years. But when I did start offering coaching (back then I was in the fitness space), it was only because there was so much demand.
      You were a millionaire by 23 years old —canyou expand on how this happened and whatsteps led you to such early success?
      No one is as surprised as me. My younger brother is disabled (epilepsy and autism) and althoughhe’s 2 years younger than me, his mental age is 2-3 years old. I saw him have his freedomstripped away from him so I believe the reasonI actually gained success in business isbecause I wanted nothing more than freedom.At the age of 18, I had a job in asset management at a FTSE 250 firm in London. All the people “ahead” of me were miserable, making a ton of money but somehow still broke, and unhealthy. I was literally looking at my future right in front of me. They didn’t have freedom and that was my pathway that lay ahead for me. People online were asking me for coaching (back then I was in the fitness space) and because the job was so drainingand, frankly, boring… I knew then that I needed to start my own business. At first, I partnered up with a friend who had already been doing online coaching successfully and I coached the girls and he coached the guys. From there, I had spent so many years offering free content that when I launched my own services, I was able to generate a huge volume of sales very quickly. It was really only myself and a video editor on the team, so my profit margins were really high.
      How did you impart knowledge to support your clients to do the same and are there any particular success stories that are special to you?
      Taking feedback from the market has been my best winning strategy. To this day, we survey every single one of our customers every quarter. Since helping people package and sell their knowledge and experience online, what we’ve always done: 1. Test strategies on one business; Get the strategy to work; Make the strategy better; And then even better again. 2. Test the strategy on multiple different businesses of ours (which are in multiple different industries); Get it working on those businesses; Make it better in those businesses; Then teach it to our customers. That way, we know it’s absolutely battletested and will win for them, too. What’s interesting, though, is that I never intended for this to be my business. After a short while of running my online fitness business, a lot of influencers and trainers were asking me how I did it. I honestly didn’t even know there was such a thing as the online consulting industry back then, so I shared what I was doing and the exact “copy and paste” posts with a few of my friends. And they each made more than $50,000 in their first month (they all had 100,000+ engaged followers online). I thought nothing of it for a while, but then one of themshared on their social media that I had helped them and I had a huge influx of people asking me if I could help, too. That’s when I put together a “sell online products” course for $2000 and used the same methods I was using for my fitness business to sell it. In my first week, I generated more than $20,000 and it was only up from there. That meant I had validated that my systems didn’t only work on my fitnessbusiness or my friends’ fitness businesses. But also to sell other types of courses, coaching or consulting online. Can you tell us more about what Impact School does? Impact School gives entretentially preneurs the systems, support and network to sell their knowledge and expertise online. We install the processes that build your audience and authority, convert your audience into sales, and that ensures your product is packaged in a way that delivers value to your customers while creating freedom for you. You can learn more at impactschool.com.

      What is key in social media sales and client acquisition?
      Authority. Most people don’t get results because they aren’t seen as an authority figure by those who find their content. Instead of “talking at people,” you need to get them to listen to you first. Adding social proof, testimonials, and sharing your story (with evidence) is fundamental. People will stop scrolling when they see your posts once they know you’re a true authority. From there, you can make offers for them to opt-into things you’re selling or your lead magnets, and they will actually take action.
      What’s the fastest way to grow your social media following to build an engaged audience?
      No one remembered the TikTokker who blew up overnight. I’m honestly not the best person to ask about growing a social media following fast. My belief is in playing the long game:1. Share value (when building an audience, I see “value” as giving without expecting anything in return). 2. Segment your audience into three groups: a) Those who don’t know you yet; b) Those who know who you are but don’t know what you sell; c) Those who know what you sell and love you. Each week, make a minimum of three posts, and in each post, speak only to one of the three groups at a time. 3. Copy and paste the posts onto every platform. I don’t understand why people don’t do this. It takes about two minutes more and can help you reach 100,000s more people. A lot of people will take this advice and then continue to write super salesy/corporate captions and content. Organic is meant to be that: organic. People are on social media to be social and to see what their friends are up to. If you look at my socials and model what I’m doing for your brand, it will really help. Do you feel more drawn to the creative or the business side of your brand and how have you grown the team to support this? Every month, I do a two week “revenue review”. This is where I list everything I’m doing in 30 minute increments and then next to each activity, I write: 1. $ if it’s a revenue generating task; 2. + if it gives me energy; 3. – if it takes my energy Anything which takes my energy and isn’t revenue generating, I delegate immediately. This often means offloading it to someone on my team or creating a new role and hiring someone for that role. Anything which takesmy energy and is revenue generating, I create a 1-3 month plan to offload it because doingsomething just because it makes money is not healthy in the long run. Personally, my zone of genius and passion is in marketing and content creation. That’s how I started all of this without ever imagining it would become a business! Finding a “right hand” who is literally the Yin to my Yang has been so important for me. Every visionary needs someone who can provide the structure and organization to make the dreams happen!
      You have clients the globe over – what are the most common mistakes you have seen in business?
      Businesses who don’t know their numbers. It’s shocking. You may see $50k in sales but then there’s actually $40k in marketing, delivery, and operational costs. So you spend an extra $30k and now you’re actually $20k negative. As soon as businesses really know their numbers and make decisions based on cash flow versus accounts receivable, everythingchanges for them.
      What is your trailblazing approach to business and how do you support others to transform their mindsets?
      Something I learned early on is that you cannot convince the un-convincible. After getting really frustrated when people (who were clearly in need of a health upgrade) would not listen to my advice, I decided to focus only on those who are ready to hear what I have to say. That said, my belief is truly that you never lose, you learn. Every hardship in life is simply personal development packaged up in a real world example.
      What have been the biggest challenges to date and how did you overcome them?
      The more you have, the more you have to lose. There are people who were once in my life who have tried to sue and blackmail me to get money from me… People I’ve known for years. The thought still hurts but I got over it fromspeaking to a group of entrepreneurs I’m in and hearing they’ve had the same happen to them. It’s rough but I think sometimes when you know other people have been through the same thing it makes it easier to get through. What tips would you give to anyone wanting to launch their own business, is it all about scalability? In the launch phase, doing “scalable” things is where most go wrong. You don’t need to focus on “scalability,” you need to focus on getting cash in the door and making your customers happy. In the beginning, you have the ability to do the unscalable which ultimately sets you up to scale way bigger in the long run. Examples include: sending personal messages to anyone in your phone book who could poentretentially be a good customer; reaching out to all of your customers and getting on 15 minute calls with them to collect feedback; sending a message to anyone who’s commenting on your social media posts – these are the activities which allow you to know your ideal customer better than anyone else which allow you to scale in the long term. But it requires a large amount of effort so most people won’t do it. And that’s how you can win.

      How do you scale without compromising on quality?
      First, it’s all about hiring the right people. In our hiring process, we make sure every potential team member shares the company values. No matter their skill, if they don’t share our values, it will not work out. What we look for is that our team members would make the decision I’d make when I’m not in the room. Second, we survey all of our clients every quarter to find out what they want that we’re not delivering on. That way, we can be proactive and ensure we’re delivering the best experience possible. Third, systems. We have systems set up for anything and everything. That way, the system makes the decision rather than a person needing to make the decision.
      What advice would you give to your younger self starting out?
      Advice I would give to my younger self starting out: 1. Relax more, it won’t hold you back; 2. Be very careful with trusting people: you never know their ulterior motives; 3. Always be testing: trying new things in business allows you to innovate and come up with more efficient ways to do things; 4. If there’s someone who’s done it, you can too. Don’t let your imposter syndrome hold you back; 5. Confidence comes with success: get some wins under your belt early on and it’ll set you up for your future success; 6. Hire the most experienced lawyer who understands your industry.
      This is The Trailblazers Issue— what does it mean to you to be a trailblazer?
      Being a Trailblazer is about showing what’s possible for other people. It’s about taking your failures and extracting the lessons, and empowering others to follow the path you’ve laid out for them. To be a trailblazer requires a level of leadership most are afraid to take on. But when you do, believe me, there’s a new level of fulfillment and happiness that will unlock for you. Get out there and show the world what’s possible.
      September – The Trailblazers Issue with Amira Sajwani – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      How I got my job as co-founders… of this interior design talent haven in Dubai

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      Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
      NACRE Living Interiors was founded by well-known industry names, Margarita Salionova and Surat Dzhelilova. The founders make for an exciting and influential example of interior design talent, with the launch of their first Dubai location now open on promenade level in Aurora Tower, Dubai Marina.
      In the beginning they started to work on fit outs for commercial spaces and luxury hotels and residential developments, an area of the business they will grow over the coming years.
      Some of the ultra-premium brands to be found in the stunning NACRE showroom space include Longhi, Raynaud, Ercuis, CTO Lighting, Vaughan Designs, Bella Figura, Giobagnara, Pinetti, Dedar, Sahrai and Alivar,To understand more, Emirates Woman sat down with these entrepreneurs to find out more about her journey and what led her to launch her own beauty brand.
      What was your favourite subject at school?
      SD: Mine was geography because I got excellent marks – the teacher loved me for my beautiful eyes.MS: Probably like everyone else at school, and unrelated to my choice of career, my favourite subject was physical education.
      What was your first job?
      MS: I worked as an accountant at my father’s place of work. Again, pretty unrelated to my current line of entrepreneurial work – there’s a pattern here. That said, practice in accounting gave me a good foundation for understanding the importance of budgeting which is crucial for any successful entrepreneur.SD: I went to medical school, so my first job once I left university was an assistant plastic surgeon. It was a really high pressure and a role that was full of responsibility, but ultimately medicine turned out not to be my true passion point.
      What brought you to Dubai?
      SD: I wanted to move to Dubai for a long time before I made the change, as I just didn’t know where to begin. The sanctions in relation to my field probably worked as a catalyst for relocation, but I wouldn’t dream of changing it. Dubai is an incredible city.
      MD: The gap in the market for what we offer, as I don’t think there are many offerings that are comparable to NACRE, and I believe we are meeting a unique demand in the market. But also, on a more personal level, residents and professionals in Dubai are known to create and inspire beauty, and I am excited to now be able to call Dubai home and become a part of it all within the interior design space.
      What inspired you to enter the interiors space?
      MS: From a really young age, probably around fourteen, I had a burning desire to do what I do today. I’ve always had an entrepreneurial mindset, so this combined with a love for the home and interiors, really was a driving force from the outset. Throughout study at university I found myself, probably at the irritation of others, having a say in both my own living accommodation space and those of friends!
      SD: For me, food tastes better on a pretty plate, and I sleep more soundly in a beautiful bed. Even if throughout the day, things don’t quite go to plan, having a comforting and inspiring home to return to that is your own space makes all the difference. I went into interiors to change people’s lives and to bring residents happiness.

      Talk us through the concept of NACRE?
      MS: The NACRE project is a one-of-a-kind platform in the UAE that allows clientele to create a fully fledged harmonious interior and exterior of the home. At NACRE you can find vintage, designer and exclusive tableware, furniture, textiles, home accessories, modern art, and much more.
      SD: NACRE is a place where we want to create history – not only do we sell art, furniture and interior items, we sell emotions and nostalgia. I want every moment and memory associated with us to be remembered with a smile. It’s important for Margo and I to maintain good relations with our clients; I can’t believe we’ve only been open one month, and we are already so lucky to have a family that is made up of our amazing team, incredible clients, partners and friends who strongly support us. I have been in the sector for four years now, and all of my close friends today started as my clients. One of them helped me to choose a clinic for the birth of my daughter, another gave me my baby’s first stroller – there have been many moments like this that I still cherish.
      What are the key elements of your role?
      MS: I take the lead in more of the design element than Surat, the organisational role has fallen onto her shoulders! But in general, our roles intersect, no day is the same and we try to mutually distribute responsibilities.SD: I’m more of the organiser, and I’m a strict director at that. Margarita is lead in design. We learn from each other every day.
      Talk us through your daily routine.
      SD: I wake up early in the morning and I commit to intense sports of some kind. Next, I open my diary and look at my endless to-do list, and I follow it rigidly to ensure I meet every deadline. I spend time with my daughter, we play and we go together to nursery. Every day brings something new to our world, and we are never bored.
      MS: Every day is challenging, but interesting. I have a young son which I brought into the world at the age of 24, so I have to combine the role of a woman who works (hard) and the role of mother and wife. Each member of my family has their own daily routine. In the morning everyone goes off to work, and in the evening we meet for dinner, we share conversations, or go an evening walk along Dubai’s beautiful marina. I spend pretty much every weekend with family and friends.
      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      SD : Always look ahead. Listen and hear yourself, sometimes it’s your inner voice trying to speak to you. Allow yourself to take risks If you really want it, you will achieve it.
      MS: Live for the smaller moments to be found in the everyday, be present and feel and experience all human emotions – embrace the positive with the not so positive. It’s all part of life’s rich tapestry. We all seek perfection, but I believe that if we embrace change we can determine our individual destiny. Tomorrow isn’t guaranteed, but we can change the future by living in the moment and by chasing our dreams. Dubai is the perfect city to give yourself a try.

      What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
      MS: The best advice I received is to support my family and to keep the faith in my own abilities. No one has lived in your shoes or has had the exact same life experiences, and therefore only you can advise what is best for you and your unit.
      SD: When you reach a new peak, dont be afraid to be at the bottom of the next path.
      And what is the worst?
      MS: It’s not so much advice but more the line of thinking that keeps you playing it safe. Living in fear and taking no risks in life will guarantee you fail by default, because you put your happiness at risk, so you may as well go for it, someone has to!
      SD: Don’t take that risk!
      What’s the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?
      MS: Launching in Dubai; it was thoroughly challenging due to tight deadlines ahead of opening. I’d imagine the entire editorial space of Emirates Woman wouldn’t be enough to give a summary of the series of events that were endured. That said, we made it, we kept plugging away and we are super proud of where we are today. We hope to see more great success to come, now we are through the toughest phase.SD: Finishing the renovation in our Dubai Marina showroom, which lasted 7 months rather than 2 months.
      What’s your future plans for the brand?
      MS: Our plans are grandiose. We have a strong desire to work with some of Dubai’s largest hotel groups, the best interior designers, and of course private residential spaces as well as real estate developers. Watch this space.
      SD: We have big plans. God laughs at us when we talk about our plans, so I always try to do everything in silence.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      7 incredible women tell us what it takes to trust the timing and use it wisely

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      Fatma AlmheiriFounder of fashion brand Venus The Label

      When have you had to trust the timing of your life in the past?
      Trusting the timing of my life is crucial for my personal growth and development. I have learned that in many situations, I must be patient and wait for things to fall into place. Whether it’s waiting for the right job opportunity, the perfect partner, or the ideal moment to pursue my passions, trust in the process is key. I firmly believe that everything will eventually work out, even if the path is not always apparent or straightforward. This belief requires me to let go of my need to control every aspect of my life and be open to the challenges and opportunities that come my way.
      This is The Horology Issue – how do you manage your time wisely?
      By setting goals and priorities, it’s so important for me to know what I want to achieve. Making a list of my goals and assigning a level of importance to each one. This helps me focus my time and energy on the most important tasks. Planning and scheduling, once the goals are set, I create a plan to accomplish them. This is something I still struggle with, however taking one step at a time helps me stay focused in what I need to achieve. Avoid- ing distraction, the biggest time eater! I usually limit my usage of social media and turn off notifications to create a quiet workspace for myself with minimal distractions. Taking breaks to help increase my productivity, helps me recharge and refocus. My favourite one of them all, re- warding myself once I have hit a certain goal or achievement. It helps boost my self-confidence when I acknowledge the effort and progress I made, it increases my motivation and encourages me to go even further, of course not replacing the actual goal and in moderation.

      Julie LemkeHolistic Esthetician

      When have you had to trust the timing of your life in the past?
      When things did not turn out as I had planned in my mind. At one point I was facing so many obstacles and rejections that it forced me to pause and rethink my actions, my purpose and why I was fighting so desperately for something I maybe didn’t even want. I finally made the link between the roadblocks and me not living my authentic truth and I surrendered. It was in that exact moment that everything started falling into place and my life took a completely different direction to what I could ever have imagined. It was the most perfect timing; I would just never have planned it myself, as it was a ripping apart of everything before it could fall into place. New opportunities arose, everything gathered synergistically and one thing led to the other – paving the way to where I am today. Looking back, I am so unbelievably grateful for all the doors that closed, as new ones opened, allowing me to fully embrace my passion. I firmly believe that obstacles are a detour in the right direction – if you are willing to listen and be open to the guidance of a “higher power”. Sometimes we overlook things and opportunities in the need of controlling everything. But if we are willing to loosen to our pre-settings, we can eventually create space for magic and new beginnings.
      This is The Horology Issue – how do you manage your time wisely?
      I allow myself sensory, social, mental, emotional and creative rest in order to be more efficient in what I do – when I do it. We live in a world where we are constantly ON. However, I personally found that I do not function very well in that way, so I had to implement some strategies to support me to be able to function at my best. I also realised that taking a lot of mini breaks makes me far more productive than taking one long break. Just a quick speedy recharge and I am ready again. I am huge on meal planning, making sure everything is set for the week. And finally, the real Game Changer, my work-related Capsule Wardrobe. Having a small selection of clothes as part of my business attire has literally changed my life and given me so much more time.

      Sarah AlagroobiArtist

      When have you had to trust the timing of your life in the past?
      There are many pivotal moments in life where time operates as a synchronistic phenomenon that creates meaning. Everything happens for a reason, so I do not approach life with an expectation that I can control my path or what is intended for me. I would rather honour the causes and effects that have been presented to me and know that although I may not understand their significance at that moment, it may come to me several years down the line. I truly believe that synchronicity draws the eye’s attention to moments in our lives when we need to stop and take a minute to breathe. Carl Jung defines time as the manifestation of the collective unconscious, archetypes, symbols, and experiences we derive from. So, I trust that the past was intended to guide the present to make way for the future.
      This is The Horology Issue – how do you manage your time wisely?
      I see that time is a non-renewable resource; you can never get it back, so I don’t necessarily see it as ‘timekeeping’ but rather ‘time-taking’. I am very conscious about how I spend my time and who I give it to. I also feel that time is something you cannot control, so it is up to you to go with time rather than against it. We always feel we are racing against the clock, by recognising moments of stillness and being present with your time, you will manage it very well because you will be hyper-aware of its value. It is a currency that we can never trade, so you have to protect it.

      Maryam FayadhFounder of Bahraini Jewellery brand JGala

      When have you had to trust the timing of your life in the past?
      Shortly after receiving my architecture degree in 2016, I knew I wanted to do something different, but I was held back by the pressure to pursue a profession in the field I had just spent five years studying and along with not knowing what I truly wanted to do. After five years of working in multiple disciplines ranging from engineering offices to creative design agencies, and feeling out of place, I decided to focus on architecture again. On March 30, 2021, I was offered a job at the engineering firm I was interning at and refused it instantly. I had no plan or reason other than my gut telling me that this profession does not allow me to soar. By April 1st, 2021, I had decided to start my journey as a jewellery designer and met with a master jeweller to help me plan my educational journey and a new career. When the time was right, without hesitation, I made a life-changing decision that then led me to where I am today: a jewellery designer whose methodology and designs are shaped by architecture and its rich history.
      This is The Horology Issue – how do you manage your time wisely?
      Over the years, I have come to believe that I am most productive when I have a detailed weekly and monthly schedule. This al- lows me to be productive while also having some flexibility to shift tasks around to accommodate for my time with my loved ones.
      Bea BongiascaItalian Jewellery Designer

      When have you had to trust the timing of your life in the past?
      I feel the question should be, when have I not trusted it? I have always been a believer in the saying “everything happens for a reason”, but I always add at the right time! Creating my brand has taught me to be patient even when I wanted things to happen instantly for myself. For instance, if everything I had going on right now, all the success the brand has witnessed, if all this occurred at the same time, I believe we wouldn’t have been able to manage as well as we have. For me, slow and steady always wins, and for a reason!
      This is The Horology Issue – how do you manage your time wisely?
      I am a very organized person, so managing time is no issue. I actually enjoy planning ahead which really helps me with managing my time effectively, particularly when it comes to everything involving the Bea Bongiasca brand.
      Arwa Al BanawiSaudi Fashion Designer

      When have you had to trust the timing of your life in the past?
      Starting my own brand, it took time and many dreamy conversations but it was meant to happen when certain things were accomplished in my life and career. I felt in a blink of a moment in 2015 that now is the time.
      This is The Horology Issue – how do you manage your time wisely?
      I prioritise my tasks by the importance of deadlines. I try not to force inspiration as I learned with experience it has to come naturally and the more you do not think about it, you will get inspired more often. I plan “personal time“ and take that time seriously whether it’s a solo trip by the sea or by the mountains or a spa day – “me time makes all the difference in time management“. Most importantly, I delegate things that I don’t need to add pressure on myself to do personally and it took me time to learn that but I did through experience of almost 10 years in my field.
      Leen MattarFounder of fashion label, Lilo

      When have you had to trust the timing of your life in the past?
      When I hit rock bottom in my personal life and education, I realised that despite the obstacles and doubts from others, I needed to pursue my long-envisioned career in fashion. From a young age I gravitated towards it, and the process of creating. Going against what I felt I was meant to do led to me being unable to excel in any areas of my life. After five semesters jumping from major to major, I trusted my intuition and booked a flight back to Jordan where I asked my Father to take a chance and invest my tuition fees into creating my brand, Lilo. Another moment I remember is sketching a dress and seeing the same design in a department store from a big Italian brand. It was another sign to start, it was the time to bring my vision to life, my designs are meant to be now. Time is one of the most precious things in life, and it’s easy to delay turning your dreams into reality for fear of failing. These experiences taught me to trust the timing of my life, to believe in myself, the process, and most importantly God.
      This is The Horology Issue – how do you manage your time wisely?
      As a young entrepreneur and fashion de- signer, time management is one of the key components to staying on the path to success. I believe it is the most precious commodity, and aim to balance it between work and my personal life. I invest a large amount of my time in the creative process, designing, and perfecting each capsule we launch. If I’m not creating, I love learning from other creatives in the industry to broaden my horizons. I also dedicate time to be with myself, I enjoy my own company and feel as though my personal identity creates the character that Lilo is as a brand, its life through my eyes.
      May’s – The Horology Issue – Download Now 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      8 incredible women tell us how they innovate within their company culture

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      In an environment where creativity and knowledge reign supreme, employees are able to explore and exchange ideas freely.
      Various UAE-based entrepreneurs are constantly uplifting this positive culture and Emirates Woman speaks to several inspiring women upholding the same values.
      Zoya SakrFounder of The Flower Society

      What does innovation mean to you?
      It’s something out of the ordinary, it doesn’t always need to be a radical change, but its impact lies within the value it creates to end users. In my business, it’s linked to creativity in line with the brand positioning we created for our brand. A disruption is an extreme form of innovation, and we believe this is possible in all kinds of businesses when being close to customers and their needs.
      How do you innovate in your company culture?
      Innovation at The Flower Society comes from every team member. Our company has a bottom-to-top policy, no hierarchy or stiff layers so creativity can flow. Innovation also comes from our loyal clients becoming part of the brand as they inspire us.
      Claire MillerFounder and CEO of The Skincare Edit

      What does innovation mean to you?
      In my idealistic view, products, ideas, or methods make the world a better place. As an entrepreneur and facialist within the beauty field, I am excited by the advancements we have seen in skincare formulation. Yet, I feel passionate and responsible that, as a wider industry, we need to examine some real challenges too and not shy away from the complicated issues such as climate change and sustainability that require more innovation.
      How do you innovate in your company culture?
      The Skincare Edit was created from a desire to do things better. Sustainability is at the heart of every decision we make as a team, from the brands we partner with to product selection, shipping, packaging, and delivery to how we describe the suitability of our products to customers. We want customers to make informed decisions for their skin without commercial hype – with only truth and transparency, which leads to better re- results and less waste. Our promises are honesty, results-driven products, sustainability, and transparency. For better sustainability, we need to look beyond just the products and the journey they take to get to us, ensuring the carbon footprint is as little as possible. As a beauty retailer and distributor, this is how we try to play our part in innovation.
      Amna Al HabtoorFounder of Arcadia

      What does innovation mean to you?
      To me, innovation is synonymous with originality. Thinking outside the box, trial and error, fresh perspectives, and advanced methods are all how I perceive innovation.
      How do you innovate in your company culture?
      It’s imperative that I adopt a non-hierarchal management approach – I feel that allows a corporate mindset that is always open to change, growth, and hence, innovation. I enforce this in different ways, such as having an open workspace with all my team members and encouraging collaboration between everyone in the company.
      Emma SawkoFounder of Wild & The Mood

      What does innovation mean to you?
      Innovation is what shakes the world and changes paradigms. And when you want to introduce a new way of eating, in a region where each community is attached to their food culture as a part of their identity, when you want people to be more environmentally conscious in an environment that does not help, when you want them to take care of their health and vitality even though they did not seem to care that much… It takes a whole lot of innovation and shaking! My luck is that the UAE is a young country with a fresh look at everything and tonnes of enthusiasm for innovation. Since we opened, I have witnessed a shift in mentalities, and I believe the green revolution has started here. I’m also delighted to see more and more young women among the new generation of entrepreneurs and innovators. I had the honour of being nominated for the prestigious Bold Women Awards in Paris, where I was surprised to meet hundreds of strong women, all entrepreneurs, many of them true innovators in their fields. I felt touched and grateful for this new generation of bold, empowered women, most of them with a gentler, greener, and altruist take on success. We all need to encourage our daughters to be bold and innovative.
      How do you innovate in your company culture?
      To become the first vegan, organic, and locally sourced restaurant in the UAE, we necessarily had to innovate. So much, in fact, that it gave my team and myself many headaches. Of course, we created our recipes from scratch with plant-based ingredients and no compromise on the taste. We also wanted minimal environmental impact and worked with architects who built the space using mainly recycled materials. We also had to innovate with nearly every aspect of the project, including finding 100% biodegradable bottles or containers, ways to minimize waste (we aim to be a 0% waste restaurant), or carbon footprint. We can say that innovation is in Wild & the Moon’s DNA.
      Lyndsay DoranChief Executive Office, L’Couture

      What does innovation mean to you?
      It means never resting on your laurels. However, innovation doesn’t always have to mean radical and incremental changes – especially within the fashion industry. As a brand, we have always been consistently focused on elevating and therefore innovating in every sense. Founded in Dubai, L’Couture is a homegrown brand with a global mindset.
      How do you innovate in your company culture?
      As a business, we are always looking to innovate in four key areas. In terms of the product itself, from consciously sourcing Oeko-Tex factories that produce new and improved fabrics to extensive fit testing with diverse models to perfect that all-important LC fit. We recently dropped our best-selling Serenity Seamless collection in a new and planet-friendly Amni Soul Eco fabric with an enhanced fit. We constantly look for new technologies to improve even our best sellers. At the core of our business is people, not only our strong community but our team across the board. We aim to diversify, grow, and promote within the company. The in-store experience is a core component of the business and something we are passionate about as a team. In line with trends in experiential retail, we want to ensure the shopping experience is as seamless and innovative as possible for our customers. Finally, L’Couture was launched online, therefore we continue to optimise the website to provide an end-to-end shopping experience. The world of e-commerce and digital is forever changing, so in order for us to be competitive, we have to be ahead of the curve and innovative and offer our customers a 360 experience.
      Zeina El-DanaFounder and CEO of Z7 Communication

      What does innovation mean to you?
      Innovation is the key to success… especially in the world of communications, events and digital. We are continuously finding ways to disrupt
      the industry with our creative and experimental approaches to ensure that our clients always stand out above the rest. To me, innovation is about constant growth and agility, being able to stay ahead of the curve and offer something outside the box to create noise!
      How do you innovate in your company culture?
      Company culture is very close to my heart, and I have spent the past few years dedicating a lot of time and resources to building a culture that enables my team to feel inspired and help them grow. I believe the physical work environment is very important, we have a beautifully designed office space in Dubai Design District, which is the heart of design, fashion, and culture in the region, but also offers flexibility to the team to work be- tween the office and outside locations where they can gain further inspiration. We organise weekly team brainstorms and monthly skill shares to upskill the team – knowledge gives the team the power and confidence to innovate. We also schedule bi-monthly team activities to enable the team to relax, bond, and foster a fun environment. At Z7, we empower the team at every level, from interns to directors, no idea is too big or too small, and I always encourage the team to believe in the impossible, push boundaries, and encourage continuous innovation! We offer a safe environment where open communication is cherished to allow the team’s creativity to be seen and heard. Recognising and rewarding success is something we continually do, and formally, once a month, we also announce an employee of the month who has achieved something special, thus encouraging further innovative behaviours within the team.
      Fatma AlmheiriSenior Manager of Communications at the Museum of The Future

      What does innovation mean to you?
      Innovation to me is more about being open to new ideas and perspectives. It’s a pathway to self-improvement and finding novel ways to have a bigger and better impact on those around me.
      How do you innovate in your company culture?
      In order to have an innovative culture embedded in any field, I feel it’s extremely important to welcome creativity and new ideas with open arms. It’s also crucial that your team is empowered enough to share these ideas confidently.
      Zoe HaldaneBrand Director of The Arts Club

      What does innovation mean to you?
      To me, innovation is about pioneering change in order to thrive. In our business, we strive to innovate on all levels, from what we offer in our restaurants and how we build and train our teams to how we programme our cultural events and communicate them to our members. Our industry is highly competitive here and in London, and innovation is key to our success.
      How do you innovate in your company culture?
      Since The Arts Club Dubai is not only our first international outpost, but also the second-ever clubhouse to be opened since our establishment in 1863, we naturally had a blank canvas opportunity to innovate across all aspects of our business, including company culture. Key to my approach is an open-door policy that gives all colleagues, no matter which department, the space to come and discuss their thoughts and ideas freely. Some of these can be specific to their respective teams or divisions, but there is an intrinsic value in allowing people to share their ideas in a way that is not confined or limited. I’m also a big believer in breakaway brainstorming sessions, some of which take place outside of the office environment. These sessions consistently provide the suitable space and environment for blue-sky thinking, ambitious strategy planning, and long-term vision. Perhaps most importantly, I always aim to take a positive approach in my role and channel a mindset open to change. I guide colleagues through influence rather than instructions and empower them to think independently and operate with confidence. This non-hierarchical way of management has always been important to me and is an intrinsic contributor to business success.
      February’s – The Innovation Issue – Download Now 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      Everything to know about the cast of Netflix’s Dubai Bling

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 hours ago

      A reality show dedicated to the emirate of Dubai is coming to Netflix this week.
      Dubai Bling is set to bring a fair dose of drama to our screens whilst showcasing the high life of the emirate – from cars to exotic resorts to lavish properties to avant-garde fashion.
      Set to premiere on Thursday, October 27, 2022, the excitement for the release has most definitely been built up after its official launch party at The Dubai Edition where Emirates Woman got to meet the cast face to face.
      Ahead of its launch, let’s take a look at who the main protagonists on the show are.
      Kris Fade

      The Australian-Lebanese host has become a household name in the country after establishing himself as a leading radio jockey. From hosting his own breakfast show, The Kris Fade Show, to being the MC at renowned events, he has gained traction worldwide and inspired his audience through various segments of his show and other kind gestures.
      Farhana Bodi

      After starting a page as a fashion content creator, Farhana Bodi has gone on to grow herself a worldwide following of over 1.4 million.
      Marwan Al-Awadhi

      As the first Emirati DJ to make waves in the region, Marwan Al-Awadhi is now widely known by his stage name, DJ Bliss. Along with his wife, the duo will be the first Emiratis to appear on this reality TV show.
      Brianna Fade

      As a strong support system to Kris Fade, she is also the brand manager at Fade Fit. After leading several brand activations and getting the brand recognised on a global level.
      Lojain Omran

      This Saudi Arabian TV presenter and social media personality has carved a niche for herself in the industry. After achieving success in various spheres, she also ensures she gives back to society as a noble humanitarian.
      Loujain Adada

      Lebanese model and former MTV presenter, Loujain Adadah, has made a mark for herself in the world of media.
      Safa Siddiqui

      This handbag enthusiast and keen fashion lover is all set to take the show by storm with her sartorial flair. From iconic silhouettes to key pieces, she meticulously styles her pieces with each look making an impression wherever she goes.
      Zeina Khoury

      As CEO of Highmark Real Estate, Zeina Khoury is one of the leading real-estate moguls in the UAE market. With her expert insight into properties and luxury new havens, her skills have taken her to the heights she is at today.
      Ebraheem Al Samadi

      Kuwaiti-American Ebraheem Al Samadi entrepreneur and CEO of Forever Rose has established himself in the world of flowers. With a keen passion for what he does, the businessman started working at the age of 13 and has proved that no vision is too hard to accomplish.
      Danya Mohammed

      Known as Diva Dee, Danya Mohammed is the first Emirati female reality TV star to air on the show. With a keen interest in fashion, her style and passion for content creation are clearly shown on her feed.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      Saudi National Day 2022: 9 inspiring women share how The Kingdom empowers them

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      Saudi Arabia marks its 92nd Saudi National Day today, September 23, 2022.
      With patriotism comes an evolving sense of how women’s roles have changed in the Kingdom. The unification of the country throughout the years inspired women with immense pride and strength about paving the way for the next generations.
      From successful entrepreneurs to pioneers in their industry, inspiring Saudi women are taking the lead in evolving the future of the country.
      Since the unification of the country by King Abdul Aziz Ibn Saud in 1932, the occasion has been marked annually since 2005 and has brought its members together to overcome all obstacles.
      As Saudi women continue to increase their participation in society and the workforce, the recent rising opportunities represent their growth in various industries.
      To understand more about how the nation is helping them grow, Emirates Woman spoke to several notable women about various reforms over the years.
      Nora Al ShaikhFashion Designer of her namesake luxury ready-to-wear line

      Talk us through your career.
      I launched this Jeddah-based contemporary luxury label in 2012. With clothing, fragrances and accessories, the brand has grown over the past decade into a lifestyle brand. As I was always passionate about design and textiles, I received a degree in Business Administration from King Saud University before enrolling at Riyadh’s Art & Skills Institute, which was the first fashion programme of its kind in the Kingdom. Shortly after graduating, my first collection was presented at Saks Fifth Avenue, Riyadh in 2009. Since my early days, the brand focused on bridging cultures. Filtered through a contemporary lens for a global audience, these influences are reflected in the unique proportions, cuts and embellishments of the brand’s garments. I’ve always taken inspiration from the landscapes, art, architecture and individuals she encounters during her travels to cities such as London, New York and L.A.Five years later, I was one of three Saudi fashion designers selected by the Ministry of Culture to participate in shaping the Kingdom’s 2030 Vision, by envisioning the role fashion can play in shaping perceptions of the country and its rich heritage.
      What steps is Saudi Arabia taking to empower its citizens?
      It was about fives year ago that I was one of three Saudi fashion designers selected by the Ministry of Culture to participate in shaping the Kingdom’s 2030 Vision, by envisioning the role fashion can play in shaping perceptions of the Kingdom and its rich heritage. To be asked to participate in that process is an example of positive change. In a few days, I will be heading to Milan to show my collection during fashion week, with a group of Saudi designers. When I began my label there was very little support or credibility fashion industry in the Kingdom. Now we are able to engage with a global audience in ways we never thought possible. We are still building the foundation for the fashion industry and that takes time but we are on the right track.
      What advice do you have for the younger generation who wish to follow in your footsteps?
      Don’t be afraid to make mistakes along your journey because that is ultimately how we learn and grow.
      What are your hopes for the country going forward?
      My hope for my country is the same hope I have for the rest of the world. That we can live in peace, experience a sense of opportunity to better our lives, and maintain a sense of pride in who we are as a people and culture.
      The slogan for this year’s annual National Day is “This is Our Home”, how does the Kingdom give you a sense of belonging?
      Home for me means many things. I was born and raised in Riyadh and now live in Jeddah, and looking out on the Red Sea, reminds me that we are a diverse country shaped by centuries of global trade, cultural fusions and migration. I immediately feel at home when thinking about our rich history.
      Sofana DahlanFirst female lawyer to have been granted the permit to practice law in Saudi Arabia

      What steps is Saudi Arabia taking to empower its citizens?
      Currently, the sky’s the limit for the citizens of Saudi Arabia. In the past five years, the Kingdom has witnessed a unique transformative and social reform, from youth to women empowerment to the advancement of economic growth and preservation of cultural values.
      What advice do you have for the younger generation who wish to follow in your footsteps?
      To uphold the values of perseverance, taking responsibility and being part of the social-economic development in the country.
      What are your hopes for the country going forward?
      Embrace technology whilst safeguarding our values and culture.
      The slogan for this year’s annual National Day is “This is Our Home”, how does the Kingdom give you a sense of belonging?
      Belonging comes from the common values that the Kingdom embraces as an Islamic and Arab country. We hold our traditions, unique value system and identity very dear to our hearts, both as individuals and collectively as a nation. Saudi Arabia allows its citizens to participate in its social-economic development and transformation thereby bringing together everyone to work towards shared values – prosperity and growth of our country, safeguarding our culture and promoting our national identity.
      Lulwah Al HomoudContemporary Artist

      Talk us through your career.
      I always believed that art is not for fun but a truly serious channel that changes perspective in so many ways. My current career is a result of a huge shift in my life. I started as a sociologist and in a short time I realised that the creative field is what I want to spend my life doing. Between curating and producing art, I believe I can make a positive change.
      What steps is Saudi Arabia taking to empower its citizens?
      Saudi Arabia opened so many closed doors to its citizens, by putting them in touch with their ancient heritage and creating a force to push them towards a bright future. The energy I see in young people is impeccable.
      What advice do you have for the younger generation who wish to follow in your footsteps?
      I would advise young people to absorb as much knowledge as possible about whatever they want to explore. Accumulation of knowledge is the source of creativity.
      What are your hopes for the country going forward?
      My hopes are endless. I hope that the kingdom becomes a destination for education, art and culture and I think we will see that in the near future.
      The slogan for this year’s annual National Day is “This is Our Home”, how does the Kingdom give you a sense of belonging?
      By being proud when I look back at our history and being part of the development towards a better future.
      Raha MoharrakFirst Saudi woman to summit Mount Everest

      Talk us through your career.
      I’ve always dreamed of challenging adventures and seeing the world from a different angle. After graduating from the American University of Sharjah, I started my career by working at a leading advertisement agency. One day my life changed when I decided to summit Mt. Kilimanjaro and this later opened the doors to eight more summits, leading to my insatiable love for altitude. I then set my eyes on Mount Everest and eventually made history by being the first Saudi woman to summit Everest.
      What steps is Saudi Arabia taking to empower its citizens?
      There are so many amazing leaps in the overall empowerment of its citizens but I would have to say that the efforts that have been made in the empowerment of women speak volumes about the country’s evolution.
      What advice do you have for the younger generation who wish to follow in your footsteps?
      The doors have been opened and ceilings have been shattered, this is your time to thrive.
      What are your hopes for the country going forward?
      I’m very hopeful about the future, we have an incredibly rich history and I’m optimistic we will have an amazing future as well.
      The slogan for this year’s annual National Day is “This is Our Home”, how does the Kingdom give you a sense of belonging?
      My love for my ancestor’s land is written on my face and my loyalty to my family is thicker than blood and my eyes sparkle at the pride that I feel for out legacy.
      DanehDubai-based Saudi fashion designer

      Talk us through your career.
      Something many may not know about me is that I have a career in Information Technology and deep into my career, I wanted to add another element to my life which involved working in fashion. The form of how I would be in fashion was not clear. I initially worked in styling and eventually thought about opening a concept store and then in 2011, it was clear after courses practice experimenting and more and finally, DANEH was born.
      What steps is Saudi Arabia taking to empower its citizens?
      Saudi Arabia is nurturing talent in various sectors and in several fields including the creative space. Now opportunities are everywhere, and the country is providing support if there is an idea, citizens can ask for support to bring their vision to life. Saudi Arabia has a strong belief and faith in its citizens and that in itself is empowerment.
      What advice do you have for the younger generation who wish to follow in your footsteps?
      Learn the business, seek professional advice, seek mentorship, be patient, be resilient and control the ego, as your designs should have meaning and purpose. It’s important to create good products and prioritize this.
      What are your hopes for the country going forward?
      My hopes are endless and things are happening every day in front of my eyes. hope for constant stability and prosperity and for us as citizens to further advance with this country and be part of achieving the plan and vision of 2030 and beyond.
      The slogan for this year’s annual National Day is “This is Our Home”, how does the Kingdom give you a sense of belonging?
      Through our people, I belong to this country and it is my home. The family and friends I have in the country make it home. I feel Saudi Arabia is always giving us a big hug saying, “you are home”.
      Razan AlazzouniSaudi Fashion Designer

      Talk us through your career.
      My sisters and I established Razan Alazzouni in 2008. Since then, we have launched many different lines expanding the brand. We now have bridal, ready-to-wear, children’s wear, accessories, shoes and kaftans. The brand began started focusing mainly on the Middle East market in 2008 and manage to extend its sales globally by having retail partners and an online presence. The brand is also not part of the Saudi 100 brands programme.
      What steps is Saudi Arabia taking to empower its citizens?
      The government is taking amazing strides to create new industries empowering Saudis to follow their dreams and work in fields that were not available to them in the Kingdom. The government also launched many different initiatives to promote education in those fields providing the much-needed training to be successful.
      What advice do you have for the younger generation who wish to follow in your footsteps?
      Be true to yourself. Find your style your trade mark and don’t worry about trends. Being you is more important than becoming a trend as they always fade.
      What are your hopes for the country going forward?
      To keep moving forward. Honestly, the government is so supportive and continues to create opportunities for the new generations. We have new thriving fashion community that is legitimising the Saudi fashion industry worldwide. I hope that we continue to shine as a collective community and show the world the many talents hidden in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
      The slogan for this year’s annual National Day is “This is Our Home”, how does the Kingdom give you a sense of belonging?
      One of the most evident traits in Saudis is their hospitality. The country and its people are all so welcoming to different cultures and beliefs. It is the best home to have the most welcoming.
      Sawsan AlbahitiSaudi Arabia’s first professional Saudi opera singer

      Talk us through your career.
      Although I began my training as an opera singer in 2008, I started my career as an opera singer 10 years later in 2018. I never imagined I could have a professional career in music, let alone in opera, as a Saudi woman. My training started at the American University of Sharjah during my bachelor’s degree studies, where I trained and performed for three consecutive years with the resident opera singer and vocal coach, and the resident choir conductor. After I graduated in 2011, my training slowed down as I came back to Saudi Arabia and there were no venues for music training. I started my career in marketing and advertising and went on to executive management after that leading my family company in catering. In 2018, I reached a point where I couldn’t run away from the feeling of frustration and lack of purpose. I realized at that point, with the launch of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, that it is the right time to pursue my life passion and dream of becoming a musician. I appeared in several media interviews announcing myself and shortly after that I was invited by the Minister of Culture, His Highness Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al Saud, to perform the Saudi national anthem at the opening of La Scala’s concert in Riyadh and the rest is history.
      What steps is Saudi Arabia taking to empower its citizens?
      The Kingdom is putting a real effort to improve the quality of life for citizens from all aspects and with that comes great enablers for Saudis in different sectors. When it comes to culture, for example as my own area of interest, the Ministry of Culture was formed in 2018 and with it 11 commissions were formed under its umbrella: music, film, theater, literature, libraries, architecture, visual arts, culinary, museums, heritage, and fashion. I am currently working with the music commission in leading different projects in the music performance sector. I am working along with colleagues who are also musicians with a background in management and that is giving us a real advantage in our work as you rarely find good musicians with good business and management skills on a global scale. This has allowed us to pursue our dreams in our home country and truly work in something we love and literally be part of history as we make the change in the country. This applies to all other commissions and all other entities formed under Vision 2030.
      What advice do you have for the younger generation who wish to follow in your footsteps?
      Set your goals clearly, get the training and knowledge you need to achieve those dreams and don’t do anything with less than 100 percent effort and finally I tell them, dream BIG, this is the time for it.
      What are your hopes for the country going forward?
      I hope for Saudi to prosper even more and be a role model of a country on a global level.
      The slogan for this year’s annual National Day is “This is Our Home”, how does the Kingdom give you a sense of belonging?
      I have never felt prouder to be Saudi. The amount of support we are given as Saudis in various fields is unprecedented compared to other countries around the world. I find myself, as well as my friends and family, returning from vacations abroad and thinking how blessed we are to be living in the Kingdom and how well of a quality of life we are living here. May we be blessed with a life filled with joy, health and security in our beloved Kingdom.
      Honayda SerafiFashion Designer

      Talk us through your career.
      Well, HONAYDA isn’t just a clothing brand; when I first launched it, I had a vision for it, to not only be an international player on the fashion scene; being myself a Saudi female fashion designer, but to also create a movement and a community regionally and internationally to the strong, powerful, and independent women. HONAYDA was born from a single belief, Empowering women. The brand was raised and nurtured in a way to have a cause, to become a brand with a voice. We believe in always raising the bar, and I never gave up on my long-dreamed goal of going global, but rather endeavored to overcome the obstacles one by one, leading HONAYDA to where it is positioned today, among international brands.
      What steps is Saudi Arabia taking to empower its citizens?
      We are witnessing incredible progress on many levels currently for a land that is rich in talents, from introducing new national development initiatives to empowering women and encouraging the new generation of multidisciplinary talents. Precisely in fashion, with the Fashion Commission’s great efforts into developing the sector in line with the Kingdom’s vision 2030, by implementing several programs considering promoting fashion locally and internationally such as the 100Saudi Brands which introduced the participating brands in an outstanding launch in the most vibrant capital of New York, with the amazing support of our ambassador who we pride ourselves with, HRH Princess Reema Bint Bandar Alsaud.
      What advice do you have for the younger generation who wish to follow in your footsteps?
      Life is full of endless opportunities for everyone to create and grow using their own ingenuity. We are blessed with a land packed with culture and invaluable artistic heritage. Absorb all the inspiration that is around you, and learn from those who preceded you. However, the road to success is never an easy one, and consistency in your efforts is what will take you places.
      What are your hopes for the country going forward?
      I am proud and grateful for what the Kingdom is achieving from progress, and always looking forward to what is coming next, especially as we all witness the vision 2030 concretizing, one project after another. My hopes are that Saudi Arabia remains the land of opportunities, and a role model for a united nation.
      The slogan for this year’s annual National Day is “This is Our Home”, how does the Kingdom give you a sense of belonging?
      My family taught me the values of my culture and the richness of my ancestors’ heritage, where belonging is mirrored in my creations. The warmth of its people, the beauty of its regions, and the power of its ambitions are what strengthen this sense of belonging in me. It is a very special feeling of pride that I cannot really express in words when I am introduced as a female Saudi designer at international events and in my daily life.
      Dina AltayebFirst Arab woman to qualify for Ironman

      Talk us through your career.
      I started my triathlon Journey 20 years ago. My first race was in 2002 and since then have competed in over 100 races. 18 of these include the full ironman which is 4km swimming, 180km cycle and 42km run) over 45 ironman races and sever marathons including Boston Marathon in 2010. I am proud to be the first Saudi female to complete an Ironman distance race in 2005, the first Saudi national and the first Arab woman to qualify and compete at the world championship ironman race in Hawaii in 2018 and 2019. I am proud to also be the first Saudi national to compete in the half ironman championship in 2017, 2018, and 2019. Besides this, I am also a mother of three children and a dentist practicing in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
      What steps is Saudi Arabia taking to empower its citizens?
      Saudi Arabia is doing an exceptional job to empower its citizens in different fields. My experience is in the sports field. We now have great support by the government in all athletic fields for both men and women. I am a board member of the first Saudi Triathlon federation and with the help and support of the government, we are working hard to develop a young generation of female and male athletes that can compete at national and international levels. We have the best coaches and mentors to help these young athletes. For example, our national team just finished a two-week training camp in Tabuk, hosted by international and national coaches. We are also excited to have government support and guidance to encourage the general population to adopt a healthy lifestyle and introduce the sport of triathlon. Our federation is hosting over 15 races next year in different cities of Saudi Arabia that are open to the general public.
      What advice do you have for the younger generation who wish to follow in your footsteps?
      When I started my journey, the sport of triathlon was new in the Gulf region, It was hard to get support, find coaches and be part of a community. Today, it’s a different story, we have the facilities, the support, the coaches, the community and events. I am proud to be part of the ASICS frontrunner community, a great group of runners and triathletes that share the same passion. I believe that having people that share the same goals and dreams is a great motivator. I encourage the young generation to have a dream, to find a sport they like. To take the first step.
      What are your hopes for the country going forward?
      I am so proud of my country and I can see great potential for our young athletes to compete and achieve international recognition at the highest level. Saudi Arabia is giving unbelievable support to all of us. There has never been a better time to be a Saudi Athlete
      The slogan for this year’s annual National Day is “This is Our Home”, how does the Kingdom give you a sense of belonging?
      Saudi Arabia is my home. I carry my country in my heart wherever I go and I try to set a good example. I do my best, I try as hard as I can,I hold my flag proudly. I am proud to be a Saudi national.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      9 Instagram accounts founded by inspiring entrepreneurs to follow

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      Fashion

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      A curated guide of all the inspiring accounts to #follow.
      Rhode skin@rhode

      Hailey Bieber’s new vegan skincare brand.
      THREADS@threadsstyling

      The first platform to take shopping to Instagram.
      Morpho@morpholabel

      Content Creator Rania Fawaz’s newly launched brand, referencing 90’s style.
      Nadine Jewellery@nadine_jewellery

      Innovating fine jewellery, all handmade in Italy and Switzerland.
      Fajer Fahad@fajer

      The founder behind the new beauty platform @beaulinebeauty.
      Marli@marli

      Taking a new approach to principles of timelessness jewellery pieces
      Hala Al Gergawi@halgergawi

      Emirati entrepreneur and founder of ‘Tea Before Noon’.
      Saanté Selfcare@saanteselfcare

      Family-founded slow beauty skincare brand.
      Tutus Kurniati@tutuskurniatiofficial

      Entrepreneur and founder of her own namesake brand both on and offline.
      September’s – The Entrepreneur Issue – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @rhode More

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      Emirati Women’s Day 2022: 55 incredible women to champion today and beyond

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      On August 28, 2022, the UAE celebrates its seventh annual Emirati Women’s Day.
      As an occasion to empower Emirati women, this special day was launched by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Al Ketbi, the wife of the late Sheikh Zayed and Mother of the Nation, in 2015.
      Back in April, Sheikha Fatima announced the theme of this year’s Emirati Women’s Day would be ‘Inspiring Reality… Sustainable Future’.
      Per WAM, Sheikha Fatima praised the women of the UAE saying, “Emirati women have proven there is no task that is impossible due to their hard work and innovation.”
      From reaching Mars to competing in the Olympics, Emirati women are constantly defying stereotypes in every field and putting UAE on the global map.
      Keeping this in mind, Emirates Woman has championed all the incredible Emirati women who work on a daily basis to inspire future generations.
      Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum

      As a role model to many, Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority is constantly aspiring to build an environment to uplift Dubai’s creative arts scene. She always highlights how Dubai Culture focuses on sustainable initiatives that make it a game-changer in the region.
      As she continues to foster her role at Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, she’s constantly vouching for women to achieve great things and to receive more opportunities in the country to flourish.
      HH Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum
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      Emirates Woman’s April 2021 – ‘The Gratitude Issue’ cover star, Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum is a proud entrepreneur and founder of an eponymous jewellery brand, Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery. Last year, the down-to-earth Sheikha debuted the brand with the ‘My Treasure’ collection, using butterflies, a tribute and a symbol of her gratitude to her late grandmother, after whom she was named. Each piece honours the memory of the elder Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum, one of Dubai’s most remarkable women, as it encourages women to embark on a journey to find their inner strength and purpose.
      “Butterflies are symbols of transformation and beauty and my grandmother grew up at a time when options were limited for women, but she didn’t let that stop her,” Sheikha Sana told Emirates Woman in an exclusive interview. “She found a way to shine and to help others shine which is why I consider her a treasure.” Taking inspiration from her grandmother has taken the young Sana on her path to entrepreneurship and womanhood. Her Highness’ warm and gentle nature belies her fierce determination to stand on her own two feet and her keen awareness of the world around her.
      HH Sheikha Mahra Al Maktoum

      Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has made a mark in the UAE by supporting local designers at various events. From the Icons Exhibition to visiting various pavilions at Expo 2020, Sheikha Mahra is constantly recognising emerging talent in the region.
      HH Sheikha Latifah Al Maktoum

      As an accomplished equestrian rider, Her Highness Sheikha Latifah Al Maktoum qualified for the Beijing Olympics in 2008, when she was only 22 years old. It was a history-making moment for the country as she became one of the first women to represent the United Arab Emirates at the Olympics. She has gone on to carve an impressive equestrian and showjumping career.
      In an interview with Emirates Woman, our September 2020 said, “I always try to create small goals that amount to a larger big-picture goal.” Deemed a perfectionist, no task is completed without full dedication for this sheikha. Overall, this Emirati International showjumper has been an Olympian and three-time UAE national champion.
      HH Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum

      Emirates Woman’s November 2020 – The Fine Jewellery Issue cover star Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum has risen to great heights in the aviation industry, by being the first Emirati woman to join the Dubai Police as a helicopter pilot and serving her country. Having broken down many barriers during her career thus far and paving the way for many women in the region, Sheikha Mozah says she’s done this by staying “head on with full force”.
      HH Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Al Ketbi

      Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Al Ketbi is one of the leading female figures in the UAE. As the wife of the late Sheikh Zayed, the Father of the Nation, Sheikha Fatima is known as the Mother of the Nation. She has always been passionate about evolving women’s rights in the UAE, even from the unification of the emirates. So much so, that she sponsored the establishment of the first-ever dedicated women’s society in the UAE – the Abu Dhabi Women’s Development Association, which launched on February 8, 1973. Two years late, in August 1975, the General Women’s Union was established and Sheikha Fatima was appointed chairwoman, a position she holds until this day. Since then, Sheikha Fatima has gone on to establish over 30 other organisations and initiatives aiming to support the development and growth of women in the region. “The women of our nation should be proud of the vital role they play in the service of our country,” she has previously said. “Women are partners in the struggle, in the past, present and future. There is nothing achieved by the Union of our State that has not benefited women.”
      HH Sheikha Mariam bint Khalifa bin Saif al Nahyan

      From celebrating diversity to design elements that are meant to last forever, Her Highness Sheikha Mariam bint Khalifa bin Saif Al Nahyan is inspired by her rich heritage and has beautifully incorporated this into her passion for jewellery in her brand MKS Jewellery. By infusing unique elements into the design process, this collection was born to empower women.
      Her Highness Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed Al Maktoum

      As the eldest daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Her Highness Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed Al Maktoum has followed in her father’s footsteps to ensure she’s making a difference. In 2003, Sheikha Manal – wife of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs – founded Dubai Ladies Club, which is located in Jumeirah. She went on to launch the Dubai Women’s Establishment in 2006, an organization that encourages and facilitates the participation of Emirati women in the workforce and society. Her most recent role in championing the role of women in the UAE is Chairperson of the UAE Gender Balance Council. The main aims of the Council are to reduce the gender gap across all government sectors and to enhance the UAE’s ranking in global competitiveness reports on gender equality.
      Her Excellency Dr. Maryam Matar

      For the past 16 years, the UAE Genetic Diseases Association has been conducting pioneering research in the field under the strong leadership of its founder and chairperson Her Excellency Dr Maryam Mohamed Fatma Matar. What led Her Excellency to place a focus on genetic disorders in her medical career was the evidence she came across during her studies and the start of her career.“Worldwide evidence suggests that prevention of genetic disorders is the most effective way to reduce, and manage genetic disorders and I decided to dedicate myself to more learning and implementing this evidence to better handle our national health challenge,” she previously told Emirates Woman. This led her to found the volunteer-led NGO to tackle some of the most serious genetic diseases known to humans including genetic blood disorders, Alzheimer’s, Autism, cancers of different kinds, celiac diseases and more.
      HE Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi

      Her Excellency Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi is a groundbreaking female figure in the UAE. In 2004, she became the first woman in the country to hold a ministerial position after she was appointed Minister of Economy. Throughout the years, Sheikha Luba has held a number of minister positions in the UAE government including Minister of Foreign Trade, Minister of International Cooperation and Development and Minister of Tolerance, a position which she held until 2017. “The UAE has established itself as a role model for the region in this field, opening the door for women to invest in the business and establish their own enterprises,” she said in 2017 at the Women’s Economic Empowerment held in Dubai. “Today, we have thousands of businesswomen running investments worth billions of dirhams. We look forward to sharing our experience and insights with participants at this important global event.
      HE Dr. Amal Al Qubaisi

      Her Excellency Dr Amal Al Qubaisi became the first woman elected into the UAE’s Federal National Council in 2006. Then, nine years later, in 2015 she became the President of the FNC, making her the region’s first female leader of a national assembly. She held this p[position until 2019. While she was still in her role as President of the FNC, Dr Amal made a speech at the Eurasian Women’s Forum, highlighting the importance of women in the UAE. “As a female leader in my country, the UAE, I am proud of our strategic and lifelong partnerships with men,” she said. “To me, peace is like a graceful eagle that needs both of its two wings; women and men, to soar high in the sky to reach its destination.”
      HE Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri

      Her Excellency Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri is the UAE Minister of Climate Change and the Environment. From addressing sessions at the United Nations to achieving gender equality and empowering women in climate change, she continues to play a crucial in mitigating the current climate crisis as her actions are all about change.
      HE Reem Al Hashimi

      Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimi was hugely instrumental in Dubai’s winning bid to host Expo 202o. As well as being Director-General for the Dubai Expo 2020, she is also the UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation. She became a cabinet minister in 2008. She is also chair of Dubai Cares, a children’s education charity established by Sheikh Mohammed in 2007.
      HE Noura Al Kaabi

      Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi is an Emirati businesswoman who is the Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development for the United Arab Emirates. She has held the position since October 2017. Previously she was the Minister of State for Federal National Council Affairs from February 2016 to October 2017. Moreover, Al Kaabi was previously appointed as a member of the Federal National Council (FNC) from Abu Dhabi.
      HE Sheikha Hind bint Majid Al Qasimi

      Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Majid Al Qasimi is the Chairperson of the Sharjah Business Women’s Council (SBWC), an organization that is inspiring entrepreneurs all over the UAE. Her Excellency discusses with us how the Council is championing an equitable world for businesswomen and entrepreneurs. She believes that entrepreneurial training is an effective way of bringing women into the mainstream, as it leads to overall economic and social development.
      HE Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi

      This Sharjah royal was the first Arab woman to be appointed President of the International Publishers Association. She is involved in a host of regional and international initiatives to promote youth and children’s empowerment in the UAE. As the founding member of Kalimat Group, she is involved in promoting literacy, reading culture and book accessibility. Her efforts are truly making a difference in the region.
      Fatma Al Mheiri

      Fatma Almheiri, our cover star for April’s – The Integrity Issue, is constantly inspiring women in this region. With a keen passion for sartorial pieces, Almheiri started her own fashion label, Venus The Label, which converts tarot card prints into wearable pieces. As well as being a proud founder and creative director, she is also the communications manager of Museum of the Future. Managing multiple roles, she is an inspiration for generations to come.
      Sarah Al-Amiri

      While currently holding the position of Chairperson of the UAE Space Agency, Sarah Al Amiri served as the deputy project manager of the Mars mission which followed after her passionate interest in the field. Having been fascinated by space since she was 12, Amiri has made big contributions to the world of science in the UAE.
      Sheikha Shamma

      Her Highness Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan became the first GCC woman to be appointed into a global and prestigious position. Per the Abu Dhabi Media Office, Her Highness has been appointed as one of the Atlantic Council’s Global Energy Center women leaders in the Energy and Climate Fellowship Program. “Women’s voices are imperative in all spaces, but especially in the context of the climate crisis, and I’m confident this initiative will continue to create great impact,” she said.
      Yasmin Baker

      Emirati aerialist and aerial Nike brand ambassador Yasmin Baker is all about breaking down stereotypes. “There are so many Emirati and Arab women who champion bravery and dispel stereotypes about capability and about the region in general,” she previously told Emirates Woman. “It is so empowering for the current times and for this part of the world. Arab women have worked hard to break the ice in politics, academia, business, science, sports, arts and to normalize the idea men and women can achieve if we are resilient.”
      Alia Al Neyadi
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      As the first professional Emirati ballerina, Alia Al Neyadi is a creative and passionate human being who pours love into whatever she does. ‘Love is life, it is living and being in this mystery and adventure we call,” she previously told us. “Everything we do is for love and everything we feel is because of love. All my decisions have been based on my love for my art, love makes you brave and committed to the journey ahead, because without love, we are empty.”
      Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi

      As President and Director of the Sharjah Art Foundation, Sheikha Hoor is a curator who continues to establish herself as a catalyst of change in this Emirate and globally. By creating a platform for contemporary artists, curators and cultural producers to be recognised, her leadership continues to extend beyond the four walls of art.
      Wdeema AlMheiri

      The beauty entrepreneur, Wdeema Almheiri is the founder of her salon, The Beauty Society, which has adopted a minimalist approach to self-care. As May’s cover star, Almheiri highlighted the importance of being authentic and how the power of precision can work wonders. By starting as a content creator and now becoming an entrepreneur, she has come a long way in hopes to inspire other women in the region.“I am a huge advocate of being 100 percent true to yourself and doing what you love,” she said in an interview with Emirates Woman.
      Dr. Nadia Bastaki

      There are not many women that can say they’re paving the way in a male-dominated field, but this rings true for Dr Nadia Bastaki – the first Emirati woman to be registered as a specialist in Aviation Aerospace medicine. She is now the Vice President of Medical Services at Etihad. “It feels great – it’s a big achievement,” she previously told Emirates Woman of breaking down barriers. “While it was important to be the first, it was more important to excel in what you do and be recognised as a leader and expert in my field. Also, I was the first woman to be promoted to the executive level within Etihad which was a big milestone in my career. Most importantly, it’s what difference you can make and how you as a woman can contribute to the success of the UAE.”
      Amna Al Haddad
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      Amna al Haddad has defied stereotypes by becoming a positive figurehead for women in the region. As an Olympic weightlifter and also by being the first Emirati and GCC national to compete in Asia’s regionals, she later on also became a part of Nike’s latest campaign on inner strength, as she continues to push herself to the limit.
      Sheikha Al Mheiri
      [embedded content]
      By being an accomplished entrepreneur, Sheikha Al Mheiri brings her out-of-the-box thinking to the table. She’s the brainchild of Society Café & Lounge and the founder of MAD Investments (Make A Difference), the hospitality group, which are the creators of premium signature hospitality concepts in the UAE. By bringing fresh ideas and innovations, she’s constantly raising the bar for branding and brilliant design, by inspiring women on a daily basis.
      Jouhayna AlMheiri

      Jouhayna AlMheiri is one of the only Emirati Air Traffic Control Officers on the planet. She’s also the founder of Jumpstart Aviation and social media manager and speaker for WAI-ME (Women in Aviation Middle East Chapter). Recently speaking at the Women in Aviation General Assembly as the Master of the Ceremony, she encouraged all women to “please push for your dreams”.
      Asma Hilal Lootah
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      Asma Hilal Lootah is a woman of firsts and has paved the way in the wellness space in the UAE after opening the first fully certified health clinic and wellness centre – The Hundred Wellness Centre – in the country in 2008. With a true entrepreneurial spirit, it was Asma’s love for Pilates that sparked her to launch The Hundred nine years ago. Discussing her journey to becoming an entrepreneur in the region, Asma previously admitted to Emirates Woman it can be “hard sometimes”.
      “It can be hard sometimes, women can be stereotyped, and we do face challenges, but I try to focus on how my work can help others, and myself,” she said.
      Nouf Omar

      Regarded as the youngest female Emirati pilot, Nouf Omar has made a mark in the aviation industry and has been given wings to fly in the region. She continues to inspire countless women who wish to join this field and is constantly ensuring that they believe in themselves and their capabilities. Omar is currently a pilot on Boeing 777 and a UAE Padel tennis national team player.
      Salama Mohamed

      After starting her career as a content creator, Salama Mohammed launched her own skincare brand, Peacefull which centres around the theme of self-love. As an advocate for natural beauty, she opened up about her skin condition, vitiligo years ago and has inspired her followers through social media. “It was a struggle growing up when you feel you are different and don’t fit in it is easier to think there is something wrong with you,” she opened up in an interview with Emirates Woman.
      Muna Easa Al Gurg

      As a prominent businesswoman and inspiring philanthropist, Muna Easa Al Gurg doesn’t limit her role to an Emirati entrepreneur. Since 2008, she has been chairwoman of Young Arab Leaders UAE to spread awareness on education, entrepreneurship and youth development.
      “Since 2009, I’ve been Director of Retail, responsible for strategy and operational development of the Group’s international and local retail brand portfolio. It’s been a fascinating experience, as I’m the second generation of our 60-year-old business,” she told Emirates Woman in an interview.
      Sarah Alagroobi

      Multidisciplinary artist Sarah Alagroobi never shies away from tackling issues head-on, in particular exploring notions of culture and identity of both Arab and Western contexts through colonial discourse. Having participated in several exhibitions such as Dutch Design Week and Art Jameel, this artist, designer and co-curator of the BANAT Collective is continuing to make a name for herself and inspiring others to do so, too.
      Amna Al Qubaisi

      Amna Al Qubaisi is the first Emirati female racing driver. As a young female breaking down barriers, the 21-year old is paving the way for many aspiring women in the region. She previously told Emirates Woman in an interview “While I’m still only at the start of my career, I’ve claimed many achievements such as being the first female and Arab to win an FIA F4 race in 2019, the first female Arab to win the RMC in 2017, the GCC Drivers Programme and The Dubai O Plate in 2019.” With so many achievements under her belt, Al Qubaisi knows this is only the beginning.
      Zeinab Alhashemi
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      This young Emirati visual artist has specialised in conceptual art and site-specific installations. After graduating from Zayed University, she created works that captured the transformation of the UAE and the rise of manmade structures. Alhashemi experiments with materials and has participated in prestigious exhibitions such as Sikka Art Fair and Dubai Design Week.
      Nadia Al Khaja

      Founder of SMAT in Dubai Design District, this pioneering entrepreneur launched the brand in 2021 and quickly grew it to be one of the most popular cafés in Dubai. In an ongoing quest for education and inspiring young women to do the same, Nadia is constantly on a mission to ensure more female leaders come to the forefront.
      Maryam Saeed
      [embedded content]
      This Emirati fashion designer co-founded Al Mraikn, a sophisticated abaya brand. Born to represent the modern Arab woman, the brand is both confident and practical. With aim to make her clients feel empowered, the brand is timeless and through this she aims to inspire the younger generation.
      Sarah AlHashimi

      As a notable film director, Sarah Alhashimi has made a mark for herself in the industry. By adapting to the ever-changing needs in the film landscape and paving the way for women in the region, Sarah is on a mission to ensure true representation of Emiratis in storytelling is apparent. In a previous interview with Emirates Woman, she said, “We are each other’s inspiration. It is a cyclical process of helping each other out and building a sense of community.”
      Minwa Al Hamed

      Former Emirates Woman cover star, Minwa Al Hamed has already achieved a whole host of noteworthy milestones at a young age. As a passionate artist, her talent is not limited to one profession as she has translated them into her career path. By constantly pursuing her passion for art and modelling, she continues to inspire women in similar fields on how to balance both. She’s the ultimate example of beauty with brains.
      Maitha Al Qubaisi

      Emirati endurance rider Maitha Al Qubaisi is one of the trailblazers for the next generation in the UAE. By prioritising education at home, she was taught to be independent and courageous no matter what challenges lie ahead. Despite the hurdles of being thrown off by a horse multiple times at speed, she’s constantly motivated to do better and how sport has taught her that any win is not individual yet collective. Having received so many accolades at a young age, she continues to be a role model for many.
      Noora Saeed

      Noora Saeed a top restauranteur in the UAE and quickly innovated with her vision to fill the gap in the healthy food eating space. She first opened the Instagrammable café VIBE in 2018, with aesthetic dishes and quaint interiors, making it the first of its kind in the UAE. The restaurant became a popular hotspot for many as it offered unique flavours and something different to what was in the market already. By inspiring other female Emirati restauranteurs in the industry, she has been a leader for future female entrepreneurs. Having also ventured into the beauty industry, her cult beauty brand, Lash Dubai, was also praised by the Kardashians.
      Sara Al Tamimi
      [embedded content]
      Sara Tamimi is the founder of her own eponymous fashion label that is constantly transforming and pushing the boundaries of conformity. From creating pieces that are symbolic of timeless elegance to reflecting the energy of urban life, Sara keeps the wearer’s needs in mind as she explores opulent textures and unique fabrics through her work.
      Yasmin Al Mulla

      Emirati designer Yasmin Al Mulla, the Creative Director of YNM Dubai, knows very well the grit, determination and hard work it takes to follow your true passion in life. Her main drive? Being able to positively represent the UAE within the global fashion market, as she previously told Emirates Woman. Yasmin has gone on to collaborate with global luxury brands including Tiffany & Co, Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton and Christian Louboutin, showcasing Emirati designers on a worldwide stage. “This region brings nothing but magnificent opportunities on daily basis,” she told us. “I would love for every woman to follow her passion, believe in herself and take every opportunity to fulfill her dream.”
      Nora Al Matrooshi

      In early 2021, the UAE recruited the very first female Emirati astronaut, Nora Al Matrooshi. With a history-making moment in the industry, this young woman was selected from over 4,000 candidates and even received a public congratulations from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and the Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
      “My message to everyone is if I can do it, you can do it,” she told Dubai Media Office in an interview. “I’ve been working in the oil and gas field for several years, but my dream about becoming an astronaut never went away.”
      Dr.Eng Suaad Al Shamsi
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      Dr. Eng Suaad Al Shamsi is the first UAE female aircraft engineer. With a degree in aviation management and in aerospace engineering, Dr. Suaad has reached great heights, inspiring the younger generations of the future as she combats the challenges of practising in a male-dominated field.
      Nayla Al Khaja

      Nayla Al Khaja is the first female director and producer in the UAE and she takes this responsibility of being a woman of firsts very seriously. “I see the messages and emails I receive from girls wanting to follow in my footsteps, and I don’t take this lightly at all,” she previously told Emirates Woman. “It drives me to do more, push boundaries and have my voice heard.”
      Zahra Lari

      Known as UAE’s first female professional figure skater to compete in a hijab while also being titled as the ‘Ice Princess of the UAE’. With her growing prominence in the sport, she has defied all odds and broken down barriers to inspire generations of athletes to chase their dreams. By leading the UAE to become the first figure skater to participate in the winter qualifications last year, she has inspired over 100 Emirati women to lace up their skates and hit the ice.
      Captain Salma Al Baloushi

      Captain Salma Al Baloushi is the first Emirati female to rise to First Officer’s rank at Etihad Airways. While she had never thought she would pursue a career path in aviation, she knew she’d be “someone or something” in the UAE after seeing a photo of Captain Aysha AlHameli, the first Emirati female pilot when she was in primary school. It was only after she had a sign from her grandmother that she decided to pursue aviation.
      Butheina Kazim

      As a pioneer in the film industry, this entrepreneur is consistently contributing and paving the way to the UAE’s burgeoning art scene. She co-founded Cinema Akil, an independent cinema situated in Alserkal Avenue and has an eye for tasteful and authentic films, making her one of the leading coordinators in the region. She has previously worked with several notable publications in the UAE and won the Special Jury Prize at the Abu Dhabi Film Festival in 2010 for her very own short documentary film.
      Dr. Amina Al Rustamani

      This Emirati businesswoman is the director of her family business AW Rostamani Group. With a strong vision, she got listed as number 20 in Forbes “Middle East Power Businesswomen 2021” list. She previously held the position as Chairperson of the Dubai Design and Fashion Council and has contributed to several leading journals and publications.
      Mouza Alabbar

      As co-founder of Alabbar Enterprises, this entrepreneur is on a mission to empower women in the region. By adopting a detail-oriented approach, Mouza Al Abbar has also spearheaded various brands such as Made by Two and Two By Symphony. In an interview with Emirates Woman she said, “People can sense when there is heart and authenticity behind a brand, and this allows your brand to sell itself.”
      Fatma Al Otaiba

      Designer Fatma Al Otaiba started this year (and new decade) with a bang, by launching her new luxury brand ODEEM. For the last 10 years, Al-Otaiba dreamt of starting her own handbag brand. The Dubai-based luxury label which aims to focus on timeless leather goods. Combining tradition with eclecticism, the designs draw on different textures and details that are sure to turn heads.
      Mariam Al Mansouri

      A truly iconic woman in the modern history of the United Arab Emirates, Mariam Al Mansouri is the first female fighter pilot in the country. She completed her pilot training at the Khalifa bin Zayed Air College of the UAE Air Force for pilots, graduating in 2007 before joining the country’s air force. In a heroic moment in 2014, seven years into her career as a fighter pilot for the UAE, Al Mansouri led an airstrike mission against terror group ISIS. Prior to completing this mission, Al Mansouri told CNN it had always been her dream to become a fighter pilot, but at the time such opportunities were not available. “At that time, the doors were not open for females to be pilots,” she revealed. “So, I had to wait almost 10 years for the decision to be taken.” Al Mansouri has become an inspiration for many to entire the aviation field, including her sister Aisha Al Mansouri who became one of Etihad’s female pilots and the first woman in the UAE to become an A380 pilot.
      Areej Al Hammadi

      Making history as a Guinness World Record Holder for the most football ‘hotstepping’ in one minute, Emirati footballer Areej Al Hamadi has made brave steps towards normalising women playing football in the region. “When I was growing up, women’s football was unheard of,” she previously told Emirates Woman. “To even dream of being part of something that didn’t exist at the time and keep pursuing it is brave because it meant taking a risk and some criticism along the way. But I think the bravest step I took was pursuing my dream and playing for the National Team.”
      Ohood Bint Khalfan Al Roumi

      In a short period of time, Ohood Bint Khalfan Al Roumi has carved an impressive career for herself as an Emirati politician. She was previously the Director of Economic Policy at the Executive Office of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and then has gone on to hold a number of leadership positions in the UAE federal government. In 2016, she was appointed Minister of State for Happiness and Wellbeing and then in 2020 she was appointed Minister of State for Government Development and Future and is also She is also the Chairwomen of the Federal Authority for Government Human Recourses (FAHR). On an international scale, Her Excellency In 2015, is also a member of the UN’s Global Entrepreneurship Council (GEC), a position she was appointed to in 2015 by the United Nations Foundation. She is the first Arab member to hold such a position.
      Fatima Al Qubaisi

      Fatima Al Qubaisi is the first Emirati woman to graduate from Harvard Law School. She is now a fully qualified lawyer practising in the UAE and continues to champion and advocate for fellow females in this country.
      Mthayel Al Ali

      This Emirati influencer is known for sharing her social media passion with the world. By adding to the UAE’s cultural scene, she’s now built an agency that was born to enhance brands’ social media channels. Having broken the shackles of blogging, which was considered taboo at her time, she has undeniably made an impact in this area.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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