MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)
Al Hosn Festival, an annual celebration of the UAE’s heritage, has become a platform for young Emirati entrepreneurs, especially women, to promote their home-grown businesses.
Aletihad spoke with a number of aspiring Emirati young women who are participating in the festival to grow their businesses through displays of their handmade products, each in her own booth.
Ashwaq Al Hamdani started her business making ceramic mugs from clay roughly a year and a half ago. The 23-year-old had studied interior design at Zayed University, during which she took a class that taught her how to work with clay.
“I enjoyed it so much, so I decided to start my own project during university break,” the young Emirati said, adding that her business is now a source of income.
Al Hamdani is participating in Al Hosn Festival for the first time. She noted that the festival has helped promote her work;
“I have been receiving orders non-stop”.
Al Hamdani often sells her products through Instagram. She has gained over 150 new followers since the festival began.
“I have received so many orders. I sold around 40 mugs in two days. Before the festival, I used to receive one or two orders every week,” she added.
Al Hamdani is determined to participate in upcoming editions, and ultimately aspires to grow her business and open her own studio.
Nouf, another entrepreneur, owns a candle business and has returned to Al Hosn Festival for the second year in a row. In the previous edition, she used to only sell candles, but this time, the 24-year-old is also offering workshops for her customers of all ages.
“I only make candles from soy wax, which is a sustainable material,” she told Aletihad, noting her commitment to growing an environmentally friendly business.
Nouf also pointed out that this festival has greatly contributed to supporting the growth of her business.
“People who bought candles for me last year actually came back and visited my booth this year. They said that they looked for me, which is very encouraging to hear,” she said.
“Having my own business helped me learn how to organise my time well, because I’m also a full-time employee. Candle-making in particular taught me patience because it requires time and meticulousness,” she added.
The ongoing festival, held at Al Hosn, home to the historic Qasr Al Hosn, continues until January 28. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in Emirati traditions through experiencing local food, hospitality, and clothing, in addition to enjoying live musical performances and art exhibits. The festival also includes souks, workshops for children, traditional shows, and camel rides for visitors.