Three talented women in the UAE are proving that passion and creativity can turn modest beginnings into thriving businesses. Starting with just Dh200, these women have transformed their love for art into careers that inspire others.
From captivating international brands with unique designs to building their own businesses, these stories highlight how dedication to art can lead to financial independence and success.
Maryam Hamad: From Small Beginnings to Big Dreams
Maryam Hamad, a 34-year-old Emirati from Dubai, shared how her artistic journey began. “I started drawing at a young age, using any free time I had. I participated in school drawing competitions and often won. Art felt like a natural talent, and it might even run in the family,” she said.
After marriage and starting a family, Maryam decided to refine her skills at the Sharjah Institute of Arts. “My teacher believed in me and helped me improve. From there, I became independent, starting with simple projects like drawing on gift bags. I sold them for Dh10 to Dh20, and soon, my business took off,” she shared.
Maryam’s ambition was to create something that could be found in every home. “I started drawing on everything hoodies, gift items, and more. Exhibitions like the Al-Freej Market helped me showcase my work, and social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok expanded my reach,” she explained.
Maryam now earns up to Dh20,000 a month during peak seasons, though profits vary. “Winter is the best season for me, as I create custom pieces like hoodies for desert events such as the LIWA festival,” she added.
Maimouna (Artey): Passion Transformed into Purpose
Maimouna, a 22-year-old Iraqi artist based in the UAE, found her passion for drawing at 15. A physical therapy graduate, she describes art as her escape. “Drawing has always been my personal space where imagination takes flight,” she said.
She began exploring ways to turn her art into a business by creating designs for products. Her brand, Artey, symbolizes independence and creativity. “Art has given me both financial and creative independence,” Maimouna shared.
Her unique style caught the attention of international companies, leading to collaborations with brands like MCM and Memo Paris. “I’ve even designed custom perfume bottles,” she added.
Through social media, Maimouna shares her artistic journey, engages with her followers, and creates custom artwork. “Art is my lifeline it’s how I express myself and connect with others,” she said.
Fatima Mohammed: Creativity Meets Fashion
Fatima Mohammed, a 27-year-old from Ajman, turned her childhood love for drawing into a career as a fashion illustrator. Inspired by a friend’s drawing talent in elementary school, she saw art as a way to express herself.
During university, Fatima participated in art events and collaborated with other creatives. Her turning point came at Comic Con Dubai, where she realized she could turn her talent into a full-time business.
Today, Fatima focuses on fashion illustration, offering services like live drawing at events, workshops for children and adults, and custom designs tailored to her clients. “My work is my primary source of income, and I love engaging with the community through art,” she shared.
Fatima often volunteers for events that promote creativity and artistic expression, further cementing her role as a leader in the local art community.
