“There are no limits to what an Emirati woman can achieve,” says Waad Al Hammadi.
Having embodied that exact mantra herself, cultivating an impressive online following of over 41,000, sharing her unique style and having co-founded her own fashion label, Gabi Dubai, Waad first-hand knows just how much Emirati women are able to achieve when they put their minds to it.
It’s something, which she says, she gets from her mother, who is an individual who taught her the value of perseverance and to strive always be the best version of herself – and it shows. With a creative eye for design, Gabi Dubai has become a go-to fashion label in the region, with its minimal “less is more” and contemporary take on the traditional abaya.
This Emirati Women’s Day, Waad shares just how key her mother has been in her journey to success and how instrumental she believes women are for the future of the UAE and the world.
GRAZIA: What makes you proud to be an Emirati woman?
Waad Al Hammadi (WAH): To me personally, being an Emirati woman means pride. I am beyond proud to be a citizen of a country that is well known for it’s heritage, humanity and generosity. It fascinates me. The UAE to me is a captivating blend of different identities living in a solidarity together.
GRAZIA: Which Emirati women do you look up to and aspire to be like?
WAH: I aspire to be like my mother because she’s the reason behind my success. Her dedication, hard work, and selflessness have been my biggest inspiration. She has always been there for me, encouraging and supporting me in every step of my journey. Her strong work ethic and determination have taught me the value of perseverance and never giving up. She has shown me that with love, patience, and sacrifice, anything is possible. My mother’s endless devotion and endless sacrifices have shaped me into the person I am today, and I am forever grateful for her influence. I aspire to emulate her qualities of resilience, kindness, and compassion, as she has truly been the driving force behind my achievements.
GRAZIA: How do you hope to inspire other Emirati women?
WAH: As an Emirati woman, my hope is to serve as a source of inspiration for other women in my country. I want to encourage other Emirati women to pursue their dreams fearlessly, regardless of any obstacles they may encounter. By sharing my experiences and supporting other women in their endeavors, I hope to empower them to believe in themselves and their capabilities through my accomplishments, determination, and drive. I want to them to know that with hard work, perseverance, and a strong belief in oneself, there are no limits to what an Emirati woman can achieve.
GRAZIA: This year the theme of Emirati Women’s Day is “We Collaborate for Tomorrow”. What does this mean to you?
WAH: The theme “We Collaborate for Tomorrow” on Emirati Women’s Day means the importance of unity among Emirati women to create a better future. It signifies the significance of working together towards common goals, supporting each other, sharing ideas, and combining efforts to bring positive change and progress in various aspects of society.
GRAZIA: What do you envision the future to be like for women in the Emirates?
WAH: I envision women in the future soaring as powerful leaders, breaking barriers, inspiring change, and reshaping the world with their intelligence, compassion, and unwavering resolve.
Read More: Jawaher Al Suwaidi Shares Her Hopes For The Future This Emirati Women’s Day
