Okhtein is a luxury bags and accessories brand championing the creativity and beauty of Egyptian design and heritage.
Mounaz and Aya Abdelraouf
Founded by Egyptian siblings Aya and Mounaz Abdelraouf in 2013, Okhtein means “sisters” in Arabic with each piece telling a story. Every detail, either woven or etched, is done by the local artisans adding even more meaning to every item that celebrates culture and modern creativity
Below we get to know the duo who can count Beyonce, Sara Sampaio, Gigi Hadid and Emma Watson as loyal fans.
What’s the first thing you do when you get up in the morning?
We both wake up at 6 am everyday and work out. We then make it a habit to cook breakfast for each other as we both love to cook. From then, we start our day at the office at 9 am.
Three items you can’t live without?
Mounaz: Phone, water bottle, sketchbook.
Aya: Phone, lipstick, perfume.
Complete the sentence: I’m happy when…
Mounaz: I am balanced.
Aya: When I eat after a long day at work.
What do you love the most about your job?
Loving what we do. Most people work for the sake of working, but when it’s working because of something you love- it becomes more gratifying and enjoyable.
Where do you love to hang out in Dubai?
The beach, DIFC, D3.
What do you do to relax and unwind?
We both love to cook, do Yoga and paint.
What really annoys you?
Copycats, bullies, smelly people, traffic, smokers.
If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Mounaz: Keep doing what you’re doing, you are here because of every mistake you have done.
Aya: Follow your dreams and maybe take a business course, it will help you out in the future.
Did you have a plan B career path?
Mounaz: Fulfil my dream of becoming a professional chef and open a restaurant.
Aya: Ready to Wear designer.
Who would you like to be stuck on a desert island with?
Mounaz: A man that could hunt for food and climb trees.
Aya: My brother.
What book are you reading at the moment?
Mounaz: The Prophet.
Aya: Solve for Happy.
What is your happy place?
Anywhere new.
What’s your personal motto?
Mounaz: Everything you do, do with love.
Aya: Surround yourself with people who will only lift you higher.
