It’s officially that time of year. The day when we celebrate the women who are out here building brands, leading communities and making ideas into realisation. If there’s one thing we love, it’s women supporting women.
So, for International Women’s Day we’re shining a spotlight on the incredible businesses established by female entrepreneurs who are breaking barriers, building empires and inspiring the next gen to dream bigger, louder and just go for it. Trust us, these spots deserve your support long after March 8th.
Bait Maryam
Good food is always a must, and no one does it better than Bait Maryam. Founded by Chef Salam Dakkak, this home-grown restaurant brings the warmth of traditional Levantine cooking to Dubai. Living by the motto “Baitak w Matrahak” –“our home is your home” – and named after her mother, Salam Daqqaq brings that motto to life in every dish and corner of the restaurant. Every meal here feels like a hug, a space that celebrates heritage, family and the power of women in hospitality. After all, aren’t most things better with a woman’s touch?
Motion Cycling
Founded by Amélie Hua in 2017, Motion Cycle is the first boutique cycle class of its kind. Here, you ride to the beats, but with a twist – a candle-lit twist! Yes, you read that right. Cycle surrounded by lit candles; it’s intimate, a complete vibe and works up a burn you’ll feel for days. Essentially everything you want out of a workout class.
The PiercingSpot
A little bling – or a lot, we don’t judge – never hurt anybody. In fact, it just adds a creative flair, and The PiercingSpot is here to make it happen. As one of the first piercing jewellery shops in the UAE, it’s all about intentional designs. From the subtlest studs to the boldest cartilage flairs, this women-led studio in Dubai is all about letting you express yourself. Is there anything better than a space (founded by a woman no less), that can make that happen?
Homaq
Founded in 2008 by Homa Qamar, this Emirati brand takes Abaya chic to the next level. From everyday caftans to show-stopping abayas that glimmer under every light, there’s no doubt you can serve every occasion in one of her designs. Each piece blends modern elegance with timeless modesty, making a staple in your everyday wardrobe or something you’ll love to pull out every Ramadan season.
Etika Jewels
Diamonds are one of a girl’s many, many friends. They’re shiny, strong and endlessly resilient – sound familiar? We simply could not do an International Women’s Day round up without mentioning Etika Jewels. Founded by Basma Chaieri in 2021, the online-based brand creates delicate designs from lab-grown diamonds and gemstones. Yes girlies, you can sparkle and be eco-friendly. Their newest collection, Fleur de Lumière, perfectly captures the femininity and strength of women, an ode to light we all bring to the world. So go ahead and treat yourself, you deserve it after all…
DBM Studio
We all want our Pinterest boards to come to life, and luckily for us, DBM Studio can make that happen. Founded and led by Mahsa Gholizadeh, the studio takes a narrative-driven approach. It’s not simply about fleeting trends and ephemeral moments, rather Mahsa focuses on emotion, intuition and connection; building a sanctuary you’ll never want to leave.
The Ripe Market
Community building? Healthy food? Weekly socialising? All accomplished and founded by a woman? Yup, that sounds like our kind of success story! The Ripe Market is one of the backbones of this city. As one of Dubai’s largest weekend markets it brings over 200 local vendors together, creating a vibrant space for our community to thrive. Founded by Becky Balderstone, the concept was simple: create a haven for healthy eating, fresh produce and support local farmers. Fast forward to today and honestly she has outdone herself. If you have not been to The Ripe Market yet… honestly what have you been doing?!
Next, learn about Specimen, the global creative networking app.