How I got my job as… Founder of this one-of-a-kind Pilates studio in Dubai
This week, we speak to Vaneezeh Hassan, the founder of V’s Pilates. The studio is known for its bespoke approach, offering tailored experiences to a largely Emirati clientele who value privacy, authenticity, and personal growth.
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.
V’s Pilates is built on the principle of helping women rediscover their inner strength, offering them an escape from their daily stresses. Overall, the studio is dedicated to enhancing the wellness of its clients while maintaining its core values of authenticity, inclusivity, and personal growth. Located in Nad Al Sheba, this
To delve into the entrepreneur’s journey, Emirates Woman spoke to her to see how it all began.
What was your favourite subject at school?
Math has always held a special place in my heart. As someone who thrives on logic and structure, math made sense to me and offered various ways to solve problems, with a definitive answer waiting at the end. I saw every equation as a puzzle, a challenge to unravel by applying the right formulas and strategies. Discovering how these solutions connected to real-life scenarios made it even more fascinating. My passion for math led me to join the high school math club and compete in several competitions. Reflecting on those experiences, I realisee how much my love for problem-solving and logical thinking has shaped the way I approach challenges today, both personally and professionally.
What was your first job?
In high school, I had the opportunity to join a co-operative education program that allowed students to intern with local businesses. I was considering pursuing a CPA designation at the time, so I applied to work at a small accounting firm. I loved the experience, it was my first time dressing up for an office job, and the incredibly kind owner made a lasting impression on me. She was always available to answer my questions and encouraged me to take on more responsibility. She even hired me for the summer afterward. What made this experience particularly special was having a female boss for my first job. I admired her ability to manage a successful business while running multiple side hustles and creating several income streams. It was the first time I saw someone successfully balance so many things, and it left a strong impression about the power of diversification and ambition.
What brought you to Dubai?
It was a combination of life’s unexpected twists and a leap of faith. In 2021, I moved from Canada to Dubai to help manage Growth Rhino, my husband’s growth marketing agency. It was a major shift, from my background in accounting, including two years at KPMG, to navigating the fast-paced world of start-ups. The transition brought not only a new industry and role but also a new city to call home. Amidst all the change, I discovered Pilates in February 2022, which became my anchor during this whirlwind phase. Pilates, with its focus on precision and control, helped me find balance and reminded me of the strength I had to navigate this new chapter. Moving to Dubai marked the beginning of a transformative journey for both my personal and professional growth, eventually leading to the creation of Vaneezeh’s Pilates Studio.
What inspired you to enter the space and your brand?
The inspiration for Vaneezeh’s Pilates came from a personal journey of growth and transformation. When I discovered Pilates in February 2022, it became more than just a workout, it was my anchor during a time of significant change. Moving to Dubai and transitioning from a corporate career to managing a start-up left me searching for stability. Pilates taught me how small, precise movements could help me regain control over both my body and mindset.
This realisation inspired me to share the transformative power of Pilates with others. I began teaching classes in my garage, and the positive response, particularly from Emirati women, was overwhelming. Clients appreciated the privacy, personalized experience, and focused attention. Their encouragement and trust motivated me to take the next step and establish a dedicated studio.
Vaneezeh’s Pilates was created as more than just a fitness space, it’s a sanctuary where women can reconnect with themselves, strengthen their bodies and minds, and build resilience. My goal has always been to empower women through this practice, helping them navigate life’s challenges with confidence and grace. Pilates changed my life, and my mission is to help others experience that same transformation.
Talk us through the concept?
Our goal is to create an inclusive space where women feel comfortable, inspired, and valued. Whether they’re seasoned practitioners or complete beginners, we welcome everyone with open arms and ensure they feel at ease as they work towards their personal goals. We offer group reformer Pilates sessions and found that it has become a tribe, where women encourage one another and celebrate their progress together. This sense of community is what truly sets us apart.
What are the key elements of your role?
As the founder, I wear many hats. My mornings start with private Pilates sessions, where I connect with clients on a personal level. Mid-mornings are for admin tasks, emails, scheduling, and ensuring everything runs like clockwork. I also manage collaborations, plan workshops, and constantly look for ways to innovate and improve. The heart of my role, though, is creating a community where women feel empowered and inspired to be their best selves.
Talk us through your daily routine.
My mornings start with private Pilates sessions, where I work closely with my client to help them meet their goals. These one-on-one moments are incredibly rewarding and set the tone for the day. Afterward, I grab a quick, nourishing breakfast which is usually yogurt with chia seeds, granola, pomegranate, banana, and a drizzle of honey. Sometimes, I pair it with a matcha latte for a little extra boost. By mid-morning, I shift to administrative work, responding to emails, and managing schedules. This part of my day keeps the studio running seamlessly, with my Google Calendar guiding every task.
Lunchtime is my recharge moment, enjoying a nourishing meal and a short rest to maintain focus and energy. Afternoons are all about strategy and innovation. I connect with clients, finalize collaborations, and plan creative workshops to keep the studio fresh and engaging. This is when I map out future goals and projects.
Evenings are a blend of personal time and exploration. I might head to the grocery store to pick up fresh ingredients for dinner, often something light and comforting like a homemade soup. Some evenings are spent catching up with friends or enjoying a good series at home, while others involve exploring the city to find new inspiration. My day ends around midnight, leaving me ready to recharge for another productive and fulfilling day ahead.
What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
For anyone stepping into the wellness sector, my biggest advice is to focus on creating truly inclusive experiences. Start by understanding your audience, who they are, what they value, and what they are seeking. This clarity will help you tailor your services to meet their specific needs while ensuring they feel welcome and represented. Think about inclusivity from their perspective. Identify any barriers they might face and work on removing them. The key is to stay client focused. When you prioritize their comfort and well-being, everything else falls into place naturally.
Tell us more about the services?
Pilates Reformer Classes: The cornerstone of Vaneezeh’s Pilates, these sessions are designed to enhance strength, flexibility, and balance – can be either group, private, or semi-private sessions.
Athleisure Line: Vaneezeh’s Pilates has expanded into a stylish athleisure line, featuring customized Pilates socks, high-performance leggings, cozy sweatshirts, and functional totes with cute relatable quotes. These items are crafted to complement an active lifestyle while keeping comfort and style in focus. Each item has been named after a supportive member of our community that has guided us through our journey.
Community Events and Collaborations: The studio actively engages with the local community by hosting unique themed events, such as Puppies and Pilates, and collaborating with like-minded businesses for corporate events. These events and partnerships create opportunities for connection, empowerment, and fun, enriching the overall experience for clients.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
“Begin how you would continue.” This gem of wisdom came from my aunt when I got married, and it applies to so much of life. It’s about setting the right expectations from the start and staying true to who you are, whether it’s with family, clients, or business partners. There’s no need to pretend to be something you are not. This advice has been invaluable in shaping not only my personal relationships but also my brand. Authenticity is at the core of everything I do, and it has allowed me to build trust and meaningful connections in both life and business. It’s about being authentic from the start and setting the tone for all relationships, whether personal or professional. For me, it’s a reminder to stay true to myself and build connections rooted in trust and honesty. It’s the foundation of how I approach everything, including my brand.
And what is the worst?
The worst advice I have ever received was to follow fleeting trends just to attract more customers, even if they didn’t align with our core brand. So much of our success has come from staying true to who we are and not giving in to fleeting fads. At Vaneezeh’s Pilates, we focus primarily on Reformer Pilates because it’s what we excel at and have deep expertise in. Trying to follow trends that don’t reflect our strengths or values would dilute what makes us unique and effective. Staying authentic has always been the key to building a lasting and meaningful brand.
What’s the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?
The biggest challenge I have overcome was moving to a new city without my family, leaving behind a stable career, and diving into entrepreneurship. Finding career success and making Dubai feel like home was not easy, but it’s what makes Vaneezeh’s Pilates so special to me. The studio is a symbol of overcoming those challenges—being away from home, navigating uncertainty, and pouring everything I had into something new. I wanted to create a sanctuary, not just for myself but for other women, a space where we could rediscover ourselves amidst life’s chaos. I’m proud that through the studio, I have been able to find my own sense of home here in Dubai.
What lies ahead for the brand?
The journey so far has been incredible, but it’s just the beginning for Vaneezeh’s Pilates. We are excited to introduce our line of whimsical and cosy athleisure ranging from sweatshirts to socks. Beyond that we do have plans to open another branch in the country. Our focus remains on enhancing the overall wellness of our clients while staying true to our values of authenticity, inclusivity, and personal growth. The future is filled with possibilities, and we are grateful for the support of everyone who has been part of this journey. We can’t wait to see what’s next as we continue to grow and evolve.
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