On Emirati Women’s Day, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of the UAE’s most successful artists and entrepreneurs. These women are not only shaping the cultural and culinary landscape of the nation but also inspiring future generations with their creativity, dedication, and innovation.
Asma Restaurant – Nahla Al Wali & her sisters Nadia & Nehad
Asma Restaurant, owned by Emirati sisters Nahla, Nadia, and Nehad Al Wali, offers a modern twist on traditional Middle Eastern cuisine, inspired by their mother, Asma. The restaurant blends the rich flavors of Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine, Egypt, and Syria with contemporary flair, honoring the culinary traditions passed down through generations. Using the freshest ingredients, Asma delivers a unique dining experience that evokes the comfort of home-cooked meals, while advancing Dubai’s culinary scene with the creativity of its Emirati female chefs.
Vanilla Sukkar Café – Kaltham Kenaid & Fatma Saifa
Emirati mother-daughter duo Dr. Kaltham Kenaid and Fatma Saifan founded Vanilla Sukkar Cafe, the UAE’s first Emirati sourdough bakery, in Jumeirah. This cozy spot, filled with books and plants, offers a delightful selection of cookies, cakes, savory danishes, and more—all made without commercial yeast. The menu features breakfast, brunch, and lunch options, including egg dishes, sourdough pancakes, gluten-free porridge, salads, and sandwiches, with plenty of vegetarian choices. Inspired by their nostalgic favorites and travel experiences, Vanilla Sukkar Cafe is a must-visit for pastry lovers and a true inspiration for Emirati mothers and daughters.
Lamya Gargash, Artist
Lamya Gargash’s work is both poignant and rich in meaning, exploring the solitude and significance of inhabited and abandoned spaces in the UAE. Through her art, she delves into themes of modernity, morality, and identity, reflecting on the complexities of a young yet rapidly evolving nation.
Sarah Almansoori, Artist
Sarah Almansoori views physical spaces as reflections of our thoughts, emotions, and memories. Through her multidisciplinary approach, which encompasses installations, painting, and sculpture, she creates works that invite us to either connect with or question our roots. Her art exists in a space that feels both grounded and ethereal, encouraging viewers to explore the deeper connections between their inner worlds and the environments they inhabit. By blurring the lines between the tangible and the abstract, Sarah’s work challenges us to consider how our surroundings influence our sense of self and identity.
As we honor these trailblazing women, their contributions remind us of the rich cultural heritage and forward-thinking spirit that defines the UAE. Their success stories continue to inspire and uplift, setting a powerful example for women across the nation and beyond.
Happy Emirati Women’s Day!