After dreaming of creating her own luxury handbag line for over a decade, Emirati entrepreneur Fatma Al Otaiba founded her accessories brand, Odeem, in 2019.
With a strong focus on “slow fashion” Odeem is dedicated to creating timeless pieces of the finest quality using luxurious materials. A self-confessed handbag lover, Al Otaiba spent years searching for the perfect size and shape, before deciding to create it herself. She started with three bags, and today, that offering has grown, with various shapes, sizes and materials available to meet every woman’s needs. Here, we find out more about the brand as well as the vision looking forward.
How did your brand come to life?
Odeem was born out of a desire to create timeless, versatile, and functional luxury handbags that cater to the modern woman. Drawing inspiration from my own challenges in finding pieces that combined elegance with practicality, I envisioned a brand that could deliver beautiful, high-quality bags crafted with exceptional attention to detail.
Tell us about the materials and fabrics you work with at Odeem.
At Odeem, we take pride in using only the finest materials. Our handbags are crafted from premium leathers such as crocodile and ostrich, offering a luxurious touch and unparalleled durability. We also work with nappa, canvas, and satin for select designs, ensuring a variety of textures and styles to suit different tastes. Each material is chosen with care to reflect our commitment to quality and timeless design.
What is the current vision and direction for the brand?
The vision for Odeem is to continue establishing ourselves as a premier UAE-based luxury brand recognised globally. We aim to expand internationally while staying rooted in our commitment to creating timeless, versatile pieces. In the near future, we also aspire to evolve into a comprehensive lifestyle brand by exploring new categories, such as fragrances and ready-to-wear fashion, while maintaining our signature elegance and quality.
Describe the style and aesthetic of your pieces.
Odeem embodies timeless sophistication and modern versatility. Our designs strike the perfect balance between elegance and practicality with clean lines, refined textures, and thoughtful details. Whether it’s a handbag for an evening soirée or a functional piece for daily use, Odeem bags seamlessly complement a variety of styles and occasions.
Can you tell us about your current collection?
Our current collection showcases a refined selection of duffle and bucket bags, each designed to transition effortlessly between occasions. The collection emphasises neutral and earthy tones, reflecting the timeless appeal of our brand while offering versatility for the modern woman. As always, the craftsmanship, quality, and attention to detail remain at the heart of every piece.
How do you feel Odeem’s products differ from others on the market?
Odeem stands apart through its emphasis on combining timeless design with unmatched functionality. Our handbags are not just accessories—they’re investments designed to be worn season after season. Each piece is lightweight, versatile, and meticulously crafted, catering to the needs of women who value elegance and practicality in equal measure.
We are seeing some fantastic talents and brands coming from the UAE – how would you assess the industry today?
The UAE’s fashion industry is thriving, with emerging talents and brands making a significant mark on the global stage. The region’s unique blend of cultures and its position as a global hub provide an excellent platform for creativity and innovation. I’m proud to be part of this wave of homegrown talent contributing to a diverse and dynamic fashion landscape.
How does sustainability influence your brand?
Sustainability is an ongoing priority at Odeem. We are actively exploring eco-friendly materials and practices to incorporate into our designs without compromising on quality or elegance. Additionally, our commitment to creating timeless, long-lasting pieces aligns with the principles of sustainable fashion, as it encourages thoughtful, enduring investments over fast trends.
What’s the biggest challenge you face in your role?
Balancing the creative and business aspects of running Odeem is one of the biggest challenges I face. While I’m passionate about designing and bringing new ideas to life, managing the operational and strategic aspects of the brand requires equal dedication. However, overcoming these challenges is deeply rewarding, as they push me to grow both personally and professionally.
What would you still like to achieve with Odeem?
I hope to see Odeem become a globally recognised luxury brand that represents the best of UAE craftsmanship and innovation. Expanding into ready-to-wear and lifestyle categories is a significant goal, as is establishing a strong international presence while remaining true to our roots in Dubai.
Would you expand your brand into other categories?
Yes, we are excited to explore ready-to-wear fashion and gradually evolve into a full-fledged lifestyle brand. Our aim is to offer a cohesive range of products that embody Odeem’s ethos of timeless elegance and functionality, catering to the needs of our clients in every aspect of their lives.
How does your heritage and culture inspire your brand?
Being born and raised in the UAE, my heritage deeply influences my work at Odeem. The country’s rich multiculturalism and a blend of traditional and modern elements inspire my designs. This unique environment motivates me to create pieces that resonate globally while celebrating the craftsmanship and creativity rooted in the UAE.
What is the professional motto you live by?
“Quality and timelessness above all else.” I believe that staying true to these principles ensures that every piece we create is meaningful, enduring, and resonates with our clients.
What else is in the pipeline for this year?
This year, we are focusing on introducing customisable options for our handbags, allowing clients to choose their preferred materials and colours for a more personal touch. Additionally, we are working towards expanding our international presence and laying the groundwork for our entry into ready-to-wear fashion, as we continue our journey towards becoming a lifestyle brand.
