International Women’s Day: 8 Female UAE-Based Artists That Need To Be On Your Radar
In honour of International Women’s Day on March 8, we share a list of Arab creatives that are championing womanhood and storytelling through art
The UAE is known for its burgeoning art and design scene, speaking to the region’s rich history and cultural landscape. At the forefront, are prominent female creatives who continue to spark discussions around women empowerment, motherhood, gender roles, and poignant topics.
In light of International Women’s Month, Harper’s Bazaar Arabia spotlights eight female Emirati artists whose work moves and inspires us.
Fatima Al-Budoor
Born in Dubai, Fatima is Al-Budoor is a UAE national who is passionate about art and travel. Her work combines photography, printmaking, writing and drawing, as she explores themes of friendship and family relationships, the complex landscape of human emotions, and the fleeting, transient experiences of life. She previously took a keen interest in textiles and has a collection of handmade artist textbooks. She also has a rich collection of exhibitions under, with her work having been displayed at Art Dubai, DIFC Art Nights, and Warehouse421 in Abu Dhabi, amongst others.
Alia Hussain Lootah
Emirati artist Aliah Hussain Lootah is a SEAF fellow and co-founder of Medaf Studio in Dubai. She is a mom of four and frequently incorporates themes of motherhood into her work. She most recently exhibited at Art Dubai 2024, where her most recent body of work, featuring a collection of wireframe sculptures and acrylics paintings, explored the complex interpersonal relationships between mothers and children in the modern world.
@aliahlootah_
Samar Sadik
Known for her exquisite fashion illustrations, Samar Sadik has established herself as a distinguished talent in Dubai’s growing fashion scene. She has collaborated with numerous luxury brands including Charlotte Tilbury, Dior, Bvlgari, and more. She’s even been awarded numerous accolades in the industry, while her playful designs lean towards fun, light-hearted, and female-driven themes.
Sarah Alagroobi
Multidisciplinary artist Sarah Alagroobi is of Emirati and Syrian descent. Her work explores notions of culture and identity politics in both Arab and Western contexts through a colonial lens. She is also passionate about the notion of ‘othering’, whitewashing, and the journey to finding a sense of belonging. She is the founder of ‘The Letters Project’ which is an online platform that aims to showcase letters written by anonymous people, and is also the host of a podcast, The Native Informant, which delves into global cultural discussion and Arab-centric topics.
Maisoon Al Saleh
Distinguished Emirati artist Maisoon Al Saleh, is known for her surrealist paintings which comment on modern and traditional Emirati culture. Her work focuses on bones and skulls as a means to tell stories that transcend age and gender. She is constantly inspired by historic art, which explores the life and culture of a bygone era. With her having been displayed at Art Dubai, the Emirati Expression at Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, and other prestigious platforms, she aims to make us reflect on the importance of Emirati history, its memory, and representation in mainstream media.
Hessa Al Ajmani
As an Emirati artist based in Ajman, Hess Al Ajmani is known for her conscious design choices and artwork inspire by nature. She has a deep appreciation for pottery, and is known for her unique pieces which feature imprints of native plants and wildflowers on functional pieces such as vases, bowls, cups, and plates. She has founded numerous art-related public experiences in the UAE, and has hosted informative workshops.
Dina Sami
Palestinian artist Dina Sami is a renowned illustrator based in the UAE. Having risen to prominence with her vintage, pop-art-inspired aesthetic, she has collaborated with numerous international brands including Apple, New Balance, and Pepsi. She also founded her own design company, Seven Minutes, through which she has worked on award-winning campaigns.
Sumayyah Al Suwaidi
Based in Abu Dhabi, Sumayyah Al Suwaidi is an award-winning digital creator and visual artist. With no two pieces a like, her unique technique sees her begin each piece with a sketch or simple photograph, before combining an assortment of textures, colours, and contrasts that make each creation unique and invaluable. She has showcased her work at exhibits all over the UAE, as well as internationally in London, USA, China, France, Germany, Switzerland, Morocco and Kuwait.