Celebrating 50 Years: UAE Designers Send Wishes to Their Country

Lindsay Judge   |   06-12-2021

As the UAE celebrated 50 years, we asked some of the nation’s fashion and jewellery designers to share their best wishes to their country.

 

 

Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum, Founder of Sana Al Maktoum Jewellery

 

 

This month we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the UAE, what does this occasion mean to you?

When I think of the 50th anniversary of the UAE, I feel only pride. It is a day of celebration for all that we have achieved. I’m filled with gratitude for the vision, guidance, contributions, hard work and determination that helped shape the UAE and made it a tolerant, modern and exciting place to be for us all – a true city of the future.

 

What is a message that you would send to your country on this occasion?

I want to express my utmost respect and gratitude for our leaders, our ancestors, our people, and those that have chosen to make the UAE their home over the years. I feel immeasurable pride for how far we have come and I am so excited for what is to come in the future and I pray for our success as a nation.

 

What is your fondest memory of the UAE from your childhood?

My fondest memory of the UAE from my childhood is spending time playing on the beach at one of our favourite spots with family, friends and the rest of the community. Our family home now overlooks the same spot and I cherish those memories and watching our home being built from the ground up.

 

What do you think the UAE has that no other country possesses?

Equal opportunities for everyone to be successful in their fields. Provided you have the immeasurable drive, ambition and the belief that nothing is impossible.

 

Where would you like to see the UAE in another 50 years?

The UAE is a country of the future – I see it succeeding with the best of the best worldwide talent across various industries – whether it’s jewellery, technology or space.

 

What are you working on currently and what does the coming year hold for you?

I am currently working on my new collection which will be released next year. There will be more exciting news coming on that soon, so watch this space!

 

What is a message that you would send to any young designers who are hoping to get into the jewellery industry?

Keep creating and designing! The important thing is to get as many designs as you can out there while you’re feeling inspired and then decide how you want to shape the rest of your collection. I would also say be patient with the process as you see your vision come to life.

 

 

Her Highness Sheikha Mariam bint Khalifa bin Saif Al Nahyan, Founder of MKS Jewellery

 

 

This month we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the UAE, what does this occasion mean to you?

It means that the country I call home is well established in the world and occupies a position it can be proud of. For me, it’s also about the coming together of people from all walks of life who want to wish the nation well.

 

What is a message that you would send to your country on this occasion?

I would tell it to keep evolving, growing and thriving in a whole host of different ways. Our future is bright and only getting brighter.

 

How will you be celebrating the 50th anniversary?

I will celebrate with family and friends with an Emirati-inspired afternoon tea. It’s a really special way for us all to catch up, talk about the future, and remember happy times.

 

Where would you like to see the UAE in another 50 years?

I would like to see it occupy an even more prominent place in the world. By showing others what can be achieved by coming together in an authentic way, we can provide hope for people all over the world.

 

How does the UAE inspire your designs?

The use of Emirati Pearls is not only a part of our history but also something connected to the legacy of my great grandfather Khalaf Al Otaiba. It’s something my designs would simply never be the same without.

 

What is something you would still like to do that you haven’t done yet?

I would really like to skydive and travel around the world. These two things would allow me to experience adrenaline, excitement and true contentment in a variety of different ways. My hope is for both of them to come true.

 

What is a quote from the UAE’s leaders that inspires you?

“Preparing for the future — near or far — starts today, not tomorrow.“ by my grandfather Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler of the UAE. I live by this quote and used it as the spark of inspiration I needed to get things moving and start my business.

 

Tell us about your latest collections?

My collections are driven by our women who continue to express themselves, their passions, their creativities and dreams. Our initiative looks to showcase and celebrate Emirati women. We are constantly inspired by their diverse passions, achievements and goals. We celebrate them with a special collaboration with Al Ghadeer Emirati Crafts.

 

Noor Shamma, Founder of Noor Shamma Jewellery

 

 

This month we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the UAE, what does this occasion mean to you?

I am beyond lucky to have been able to witness the dynamic transition of the UAE along the years, as it positions itself as a pioneer in the world. I am in awe at everything that the UAE had achieved in the past 50 years and I can’t wait to see how much more it will achieve in the next 50!

 

What is a message that you would send to your country on this occasion?

I am blessed that the UAE is my home and I’m always grateful for our exceptional leadership (who lead by example) — they have guided and inspired us to excel at everything we do.

 

What is your fondest memory of the UAE from your childhood?

The excitement of getting dressed in Emirati traditional dress as a child during National Day and now, getting to do that with my daughter!

 

What do you think the UAE has that no other country possesses?

The UAE has vision, diversity and tolerance. I was lucky to grow up in such an environment.

 

Where would you like to see the UAE in another 50 years?

The sky is the limit and I am confident that the UAE will pioneer again and again.

 

What can you tell us about your latest collections?

Earlier in the year, I came to the inspiration for Cipresso, my new collection, after months of uncertainty. The Cipresso collection is a testament to roots and the lifeforce they provide. Each piece is finely crafted in 18k gold and is accented with brilliant diamonds. The enduring metal is shaped into a symphony of angles and lines, inspired by the iconic cypress tree. When worn, the brilliant shapes reflect a starlit scatter of golden light, illuminating the skin. Each element of Cipresso can stand alone or mix beautifully with other pieces.

 

What are you currently working on and what is in the pipeline for Noor Shamma over the coming months?

I am very excited to see how my new collection evolves in the coming months and I’m always working on new ideas and developing new pieces — experimenting is a big part of my creative process and I very much enjoy the journey that takes me on! Finally, there are plans to further expand in the GCC and Europe, so I’m looking forward to that!

 

Ahlam Shahin, Fashion Designer and Founder of Ahlam Shahin

 

 

This month we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the UAE, what does this occasion mean to you?

National Day is a special day for all of us. It is a day to look back and celebrate all that the country has achieved throughout the years. It is also a day to celebrate the union of the seven Emirates under the vision of our late founding father His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. A significant day to commemorate the historic achievements of the country.

 

What is a message that you would send to your country on this occasion?

I am proud to be from a country that consistently strives to work hard, develop and achieve all dreams it has set out.

 

What is your fondest memory of the UAE from your childhood?

Some of my fondest memories are going on mountain retreats with my family. It is an annual winter activity that takes place in Dibba, Fujairah where we enjoy the beach, ice cream and homemade delicious food and barbeque.

 

How will you be celebrating the 50th anniversary?

I feel very passionate about celebrating this day with my family. We get together to eat our traditional food and listen to national songs. An important part of this day is to show our kids the love we have for our country and to teach them our traditions.

 

What do you think the UAE has that no other country possesses?

The UAE is unlike any other country in the world. We are fortunate to have great leaders who love their country and lead their citizens and residents with love.

 

Where would you like to see the UAE in another 50 years?

As His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum said, the future of the UAE is to become the most advanced country that embraces the best well-being strategies worldwide. A country that embraces the world.

 

Tell us about your latest collections and how they reflect the brand’s DNA?

The latest collection is inspired by The Moon Woman painting by Jackson Pollock. It reflects the brand’s DNA of focusing on creative, statement designs that are brought out through clean cuts and voluminous silhouettes. While the abstract patterns found on the painting are translated through embellished details.

 

What else is in the pipeline for you over the coming months?

We are very excited about showcasing our collection at different retailers such as Threads Styling, Farfetch, Ounass and Harvey Nichols Doha.

 

Fatima Al Hashimi, Founder of HASHIMI

 

 

This month we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the UAE, what does this occasion mean to you?

It is a special day to celebrate the UAE’s successes, opportunities and consistent growth. It is also a reminder of how our founding father, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan brought all seven Emirates together to build such an amazing nation.

 

What is a message that you would send to your country on this occasion?

I would like to thank our beautiful country for always supporting and encouraging each one of us to go after our dreams and turn them into reality.

 

What is your fondest memory of the UAE from your childhood?

There are so many but some of the fondest would be going on trips to Hatta and Fujairah where we would have a BBQ in the middle of the desert with family and cousins.

 

How will you be celebrating the 50th anniversary?

I will be celebrating with the family on The Palm Jumeirah.

 

What do you think the UAE has that no other country possesses?

A great vision to provide opportunities for its citizens and residents. It’s also such an honour to be a part of the country that constantly encourages and supports women empowerment.

 

Where would you like to see the UAE in another 50 years?

I hope the UAE continues to thrive in all sectors and become a role model to nations worldwide. I hope that our beautiful traditions continue to flourish and are embraced by every citizen and resident.

 

What is the personal motto that you live by?

To always be driven in creating designs and to do it with love and not by force.

 

What can you tell us about your capsule collection for UAE National Day?

Our capsule collection is created for the everyday modern women with beautiful cuts along with our personal touch of hand stitching and machine stitching which embraces the HASHIMI aesthetic.

 

What are some of the highlight pieces we should look out for?

The Hoodies that we created for the UAE 50th anniversary. They are available at THAT Concept Store in Mall of the Emirates.

 

Yasmin Al Mulla, Founder of YNM

 

 

This month we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the UAE, what does this occasion mean to you?

It is a beautiful occasion by all means. I am thankful for the priceless opportunities, overwhelming support, and perpetual privileges. We are fortunate for being celebrated every single day by just living in the UAE.

 

What is a message that you would send to your country on this occasion?

I don’t know how I can express the love I have for you. I can’t thank you enough for making me the person I am today. For having a culture that encourages the development of a person I only wish to become. Growing up in the UAE is a privilege, a beautiful and inspiring thing. The rapid developments urge us to set high boundaries and work hard to achieve our ambitions.

 

What is your fondest memory of the UAE from your childhood?

Witnessing the beautiful development and massive transformation throughout the years. The UAE is truly a magical place!

 

How will you be celebrating the 50th anniversary?

By feeling grateful and honoured for being in this marvellous country. I am thankful for being celebrated every single day by just living in the UAE.

 

What do you think the UAE has that no other country possesses?

I feel very proud of our heritage, culture, and history — The United Arab Emirates is a captivating multiculturalism of nationalities and ethnicities all living in unity together and this is what makes us connected and stronger. The UAE is a country well known for its humanity and generosity and provides endless opportunities, overwhelming support, and extraordinary privileges to all nationalities. I love the concept of my beautiful country, where your performance, talent and education matter more than anything else, we celebrate the person before everything.

 

Where would you like to see the UAE in another 50 years?

I truly look forward to witnessing all the magnificent accomplishments. The UAE is impressive today and forever.

 

Can you tell us about your latest collections?

After studying, observing, and listening to our clients during COVID-19, we have decided to shift the standards and focus on a natural, sustainable, and season-less approach with four capsules a year, and we have decided to focus on selling primarily directly to consumers. We are developing methods to deliver to more than 66 countries, offering both online payments and cash on delivery (worldwide) to enhance the whole experience from a 360 perspective.

So for now we are working on finalising our Fall/Winter Capsule which is expected to be launched soon, focusing on statement yet minimal pieces inspired by this regions community connection, history, and family bond.

 

What are you currently working on and what can we expect to see over the coming months?

On a design level, I am as well working on exploring some exciting projects/collaborations to connect the heritage and beauty of the brands with the local community beautifully, which I can’t wait to reveal. Outside of fashion, I am currently working on my health and nutrition and plant-based book, to be the first of its kind in the region — highlighting vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free recipes inspired by my loved ones, culture, and travel, focusing on nourishing nutritious and wholesome concepts.

 

 

Latifa Al Gurg, Founder of Twisted Roots

 

 

This month we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the UAE, what does this occasion mean to you?

It’s a major celebration of everything the UAE has achieved. The country has grown like no other in this time. We have so much to celebrate and to be proud of.

 

What is a message that you would send to your country on this occasion?

We are proud of how far we’ve come, and there are no words to describe the honour and privilege that I feel to be a part of this great nation.

 

How will you be celebrating the 50th anniversary?

I plan to spend it with family, celebrating not only our nation but also each other during this great time.

 

What do you think the UAE has that no other country possesses?

The UAE has a deep culture of acceptance and learning from others. I believe this is one of the greatest reasons for the remarkable growth and success of the nation.

 

Where would you like to see the UAE in another 50 years?

I believe that the soul of the nation is one of growth and learning, and I am sure that this will only increase and build a nation of greatness that is unparalleled.

 

Can you tell us about your latest work?

The last year has been one of great learning for me. Sustainability is a big issue for me. Not only as an end product but as a business and an industry. As I got more involved in helping other brands launch over the last few years, I have found that I find much greater fulfilment in helping others create sustainable businesses and supporting the fashion industry from the ground up through this work. This became more and more clear over the past year. So I’ve shifted to focusing on consultancy in the fashion industry, and am working with quite a few new brands to bring their visions to realization and build sustainable businesses.

 

What are you currently working on and what can we expect to see over the coming months?

The last two years have been tough for many people, especially from a mental health standpoint. My family has a presence in the mental health and special needs sector through Dubai Community Health Centre, and this year I have taken on a more active role and have a few projects that will be, hopefully, coming to fruition in the next few months.

In addition to the above, I’m also in the final stage of getting my Health Coach Certification. This has been a passion of mine for a long time and I’m excited to be able to be a part of others health journeys and bring a more holistic perspective of health to the community.

 

Noor, Budoor and Sarah Al Khaja, Founders of Serrb

 

 

This month we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the UAE, what does this occasion mean to you?

It marks the progress our country has made, especially considering it being a young country in comparison to others.

 

What is a message that you would send to your country on this occasion?

We are proud of all its achievements and advancement while remaining true to its roots, traditions and family culture.

 

What is your fondest memory of the UAE from your childhood?

Some of our fondest memories of the UAE from our childhood would be the road trips we would take to the desert and celebrating National Day at our schools. Some memories that always stay fresh in our minds are being able to see Dubai World Trade Center from distant areas such as Mirdif and the rush of when Sheikh Zayed Road opened as the first road without any signals. It’s so great to see how much the UAE has progressed over the years.

 

How will you be celebrating the 50th anniversary?

We will celebrate this 50th anniversary by spending it with our loved ones and teaching the next generation about our traditions, values and culture.

 

What do you think the UAE has that no other country possesses?

Innovation and drive to always be ahead.

 

Where would you like to see the UAE in another 50 years?

We would love to see it develop even further in different sectors such as health, education, and technology.

 

Tell us about your latest collections and how they reflect the brand’s DNA?

The latest AW21 collection is inspired by the structure of geometrical elements. Whereas the SS22 collection boasts an array of free-flowing silhouettes fused with statement elements such as beaded fringes and statement bows. Both collections reflect our signature aesthetic and DNA of masculine cuts while channelling the flair of feminine details. They evoke a sense of understated sensibility by presenting a wardrobe of essentials that are fit for the modern woman.

 

What else is in the pipeline for you over the coming months?

We are excited about launching our Ramadan collection soon.

 

Fatma Taher and Mahin Al M, Founders of Maureen

 

 

This month we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the UAE, what does this occasion mean to you?

It means that it is another year where we’ve grown and evolved as a nation as every year marks the achievements made by our country. It is a day to reflect on how well the nation and its citizens have grown.

 

What is a message that you would send to your country on this occasion?

To always achieve the greatest, as we are doing so now.

 

What is your fondest memory of the UAE from your childhood?

We are fond of the memories we shared with our family and friends during National day. It brings back memories of dressing up in traditional clothes and wearing traditional gold jewellery.

 

How will you be celebrating the 50th anniversary?

We will be celebrating with friends and family. We’d gather around at our elders’ house and reminisce about the memories we’ve had every other National day in the past.

 

What do you think the UAE has that no other country possesses?

It has everything anyone could ask for. We have independence, equality, safety and security. I wouldn’t want to change anything about how our country has grown and developed. It is truly a blessing to be living in such a beautiful and ever-evolving country.

 

Where would you like to see the UAE in another 50 years?

We’d love to see more achievements and creations being made by the UAE that would inspire the world to follow in its footsteps into greatness.

 

What is the personal motto that you live by?

Always prioritize your family and friends. They will be the ones to support you through any dreams you may have.

 

What can you tell us about your capsule collection for UAE National Day?

The collection will showcase a few pieces made with the Maureen touch along with a reflection of the UAE in it.

 

What are some of the highlight pieces we should look out for?

All the pieces are equally eye-catching. It has an element that appeals to every person’s taste

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