TALAH TURK (ABU DHABI)
Capturing the attention of passersby through impromptu puppet shows and greeting them with a radiant smile, Hanady Badow's booth at the Al Hosn Festival stands out as a beacon of Emirati pride. H.B Dolls, a five-year-old endeavour that originated as a hobby, has rapidly evolved into Badow's full-fledged dream job. Seeking to fill a gap in the market and provide children with relatable toys, she dresses her dolls in authentic Emirati attire and traditional jewellery.
More Than Just Dolls
Beyond being mere playthings, Badow views her creations as her own children, each meticulously handcrafted and bestowed with unique identities. Taking her commitment to authenticity a step further, she gives each doll an Emirati passport and a unique ID, featuring names like Shamma, Hassa, and Ousha – evoking a deep connection to Emirati heritage.
Badow's Instagram serves as a stage where her dolls actively participate in national celebrations such as Emirati Women's Day, Eid Al-Adha, and UAE National Day. This integration into cultural events fosters a stronger bond between individuals and the dolls, as they mirror their appearance, language, and shared values.
Handcrafted Beauties with Commitment to Sustainability
The process of creating these handmade Emirati beauties has evolved over time, with Badow streamlining her efforts. Initially taking a month to craft each doll, she now prepares different parts in batches, which she assembles and paints a day before delivery.
Highlighting her commitment to sustainability, Badow explained that her project promotes eco-friendliness by repurposing cotton from old pillows to stuff her dolls. Instead of discarding the cotton, she cleans and reuses it, embodying a thoughtful approach to crafting dolls that resonates with the UAE’s environmental consciousness.