Culture
A new generation of Emirati artists and entrepreneurs is making waves in the fields of art, design, and business. These innovators skillfully blend tradition with modernity and creativity with practicality. The following six individuals are not only transforming their respective sectors but also inspiring others to embrace artistic expression and authenticity.
Aisha Abdelaziz
Aisha Abdelaziz, the co-founder of SCULP Activewear, is revolutionizing the intersection of performance and fashion. With a degree in Visual Communication from the American University of Sharjah, Aisha gained recognition through her streetwear brand, Lahjtna, which celebrated Emirati culture. Now, with SCULP, she combines high-performance elements with sleek design, creating activewear that empowers women to move confidently. Her approach highlights how fashion can effortlessly blend purpose with artistry.
Shamma Buhazza
Having refined her skills at Parsons School of Design in New York and collaborated with global brands such as Adidas, Nike, and Apple, Shamma Buhazza creates designs that narrate cultural stories. Her work explores the relationship between language, identity, and visual expression, resulting in thought-provoking pieces. Whether she’s working with luxury brands like Rimowa or on personal initiatives, Shamma’s creations serve as a dialogue between tradition and contemporary art, illustrating the universal appeal of personal expression.
Wafa Al Falahi
Wafa Al Falahi transcends creative boundaries with her expertise in interior design, ceramics, and furniture crafting. As an alumna of the prestigious Athath Fellowship, she launched Sorbe Studios, a design studio that specializes in custom tableware and innovative solutions for various clients in the UAE. In her free time, Wafa indulges in personal projects, merging historical influences with modern design. Her work reminds us that creativity thrives when curiosity guides the process.
Fatima Al Ameemi
Holding a Master’s degree in Strategic Design from Parsons Paris, Fatima Al Ameemi is an artist whose creations balance the abstract with the concrete. Her vibrant watercolor artworks capture the essence of natural elements, showcasing her keen awareness of her environment. Fatima’s refined aesthetic extends beyond her artwork and influences her personal style, making her an inspiration for those who appreciate beauty in both structure and spontaneity.
Alya Al Hammadi
Through her venture, Escape, Alya Al Hammadi transforms travel into a deeply engaging experience. By spotlighting hidden treasures in the UAE and elsewhere, she encourages audiences to perceive destinations with a sense of grace and exploration. Alya’s blend of fashion, gastronomy, and stunning scenery reveals that the essence of travel lies not only in the journey itself but also in the memories it creates.
Sarah Al Hashmi
As a filmmaker, Sarah Al Hashmi aims to tell impactful stories. Her debut documentary, which highlighted the life of an adult with autism and his family, received international recognition, paving the way for a career focused on elevating marginalized voices. Sarah’s work demonstrates that cinema is not merely a source of entertainment; it is a powerful tool for social change.
Shaping the Future
These six creatives represent more than just emerging talents; they are cultural pioneers, skillfully blending heritage with innovation. In a continuously evolving landscape, their voices play a crucial role, encouraging others to broaden their horizons and think creatively.