La Clique, C’est Chic: 3 Dubai Crews On The Power Of Female Friendship
This Talking Point focuses on women who support each other through life’s highs and lows, nurturing the strong bond that will keep them together always and forever…
“Women’s friendships are like a renewable source of power,” said activist and actor, Jane Fonda. Unlike many other liasions in our life, the one between female friends is a hallowed haven. It is said if you can count your best friends on one hand, you are rich. Bazaar Arabia couldn’t agree more as we introduce three of Dubai’s most dynamic and talented friendship circles.
The Arts (& Crafts) Club
From designers to authors, this band of accomplished artists has been instrumental in moving and shaking the arts and culture scene in the Middle East. Not only are they globally recognised in their respective fields, but they do it all with the grace (and glamour) of true composers. When asked if this faction of friends is open to new members, Nadine Kanso, founder and creative director of Bil Arabi smiles: “Yes, we are always open to welcoming new friends. We believe in expanding our circle with individuals who share our values and interests, enriching our lives with new perspectives and experiences.”
Harper’s Bazaar Arabia (HBA): How did this friendship group first form?
Nadine (NK): I met each of these incredible women at different times in my life. Myrna and I worked together at a publication around 20 years ago, in Dubai. She was the editor of a magazine, and I was doing some photography work for another magazine under the same umbrella. That’s how our friendship started. As for Hala, I met her years ago; her husbands family are friends of my family. She was working with Christies, and our relationship has grown fonder each year. I met Noor in 2016, at my photography collage exhibition, Future of Yesterday, that was being showcased at Cuadro Fine Art gallery. We’ve further strengthened our bond since that day.
HBA: What do you value most within this group?
NK: The genuine support and understanding we share. These are women I love, appreciate, and admire for their career paths and personal evolution. We always give each other advice and encouragement in both personal and professional matters.
HBA: How often do you WhatsApp, call or catch up for coffee?
NK: We stay in touch frequently, both one-on-one and through group meet-ups. Myrna and I exchange almost daily messages, while Hala and I often meet at events as part of an art salon. Nour and I travel together and have many common friends, so we always find time to catch up. We constantly send messages and share things on social media, especially when it comes to art.
HBA: What has this group of friends taught you about life?
NK: The importance of empathy, resilience, and the power of a strong support system.
HBA: What do you love most about this friendship group?
Noor (NAS): These three amazing woman are my go-tos. In my happy times and in my dark times, they have always been there. They are wise and if I ever need to seek advice on any matter they are just a phone call away and never let me down.
HBA: What are some of the most memorable moments you have shared?
NAS: Oh my, so many! Myna’s wedding and the birth of her babies Noor and then Khalid. The launches of new Bil Arabi collections or supporting each others’ projects at the opening of Art Dubai or a book launch. Dubai life is hectic.
HBA: How do you find the time to keep in touch?
NAS: We are all busy with work and family but we make time for each other. Sometimes it’s a one hour phone call and other times it’s breakfast or coffee. Sometimes it’s making art with their children and having quality time.
HBA: What are some of the fond memories you have of when you first met?
Myrna (MA): When we all met in Dubai, we were so young and pumped with passion – we still are! Nadine and I intersected on more than one level – she is a family friend, we worked together. I’m a loyal client of Bil Arabi and I consider her a close and true friend. I met Nour and Hala through the art world during my time at Canvas magazine in the early 2000s – Hala was working at Christies and Noor was an aspiring artist with big ideas.
“This group has taught me about the importance of empathy, resilience, and the power of a strong support system”
Nadine Kanso
HBA: How does this group support you in everyday life?
MA: We acknowledge each other’s successes and support each other during ups and downs. We’re also all in it together, we’re keen to see the UAE and regional art scenes flourish and are proud of our Arab roots and heritage.
HBA: Can you tell us about any instrumental life moments you have been through together?
MA: I distinctly remember Nadine in the early 2000s when we worked together at a publishing house; she staged an incredible exhibition of her photographs and then launched Bil Arabi. I have pieces from her early collections and it’s insane to think that this was almost 20 years ago. I remember attending exhibitions with all three – we were witnesses of what became a regional art capital, and we were so excited about the possibility of it all. I remember them at my wedding; when they came over to congratulate me on the birth of my firstborn; the gifts they sent and the social media posts on every book I published; their attendance at my talks; their presence at the condolence service for my beloved late mother; their calls, texts, and kindness.
HBA: Milestone moments?
MA: Nadine in Miami, Cuba, Sharm El Sheikh – laughing, and armed with a camera. Nour in London laughing, always laughing. Hala in the auction room!
HBA: Are you all alike?
Hala (HK): I like to think that we are alike in our belonging to the Arab world. Our belonging and belief in the power of the Arab woman and in our belief in the values of what is it to be an Arab regardless of your religion, values of family, values of friendships, values of leaving an impact for generations to come.
HBA: What are your favourite memories of this group?
HK: To list one memory would be unfair to a creative journey that I hope will continue to be long and rich with more to come. The first I can think of is this glamorous photoshoot. But here’s what springs to mind after only good energy – a comfort zone. Maybe a tiny bit of a nostalgic feeling to an older time in Dubai when things were still building up. A calmer cultural agenda, where time was more generous and I see these beautiful people’s faces smiling and shining. I wish for many more memories to be created as I wish all three ladies the best of everything in their journeys.
HBA: What have these friends taught you about life?
HK: That no matter how much is said about individualism and how crucial this world is, we are never alone with loving people around us. That life becomes sweeter and richer with the right good people in it. Life is short, time passes by quickly and friendships should not be taken lightly.
The Career Crew
Having met via way of work, this group of ladies is about as driven and dedicated to their crafts as it gets. Hailing from all over the world, this party are all the things – colleagues, critics and companions.
HBA: How did you all meet?
Sophia (SB): Our paths all crossed in Dubai, working within the same luxury industry – we’ve connected either as colleagues in an agency, as creative collaborators on photo-shoot sets, or just hit it off immediately as friends at a fashion event.
HBA: What aspect of this bond is most important to you?
I treasure having an inner-circle of like-minded, ambitious, independent women – we admire so much about each other, and that gives us a more deep-rooted connection. As an entrepreneur, I am grateful for their encouragement and show of support for my business, and their celebration of my personal achievements. We are able to be there for one another, both in life, and in business – it creates a unique synergy and it’s very special.
HBA: You all work in like-minded industries. Are you all very much the same in terms of personalities too?
Razan: In terms of characteristics we’re quite different, but share the same core values – we’ve all grown up in different parts of the world with contrasting upbringings – yet have cultivated a mutual respect and shared interest in each other’s cultures which enriches our friendship. We are all passionate, high-spirited and career-driven – whilst having integrity, being family-oriented, and remaining authentic.
HBA: What qualities do you look for in a friend?
Alicia Jane: Whilst moving country is an adventure, it’s daunting to cultivate new friendships. Luckily my career enabled me to cross paths with like-minded females that are family-oriented, run their own businesses and empower each other. It’s an exciting time in Dubai as women are pioneering change and I am proud to be a part of it.
HBA: What has this group of friends taught you about life?
Axelle: As the youngest, their support has taught me to be more confident, encouraged me to embrace my skills and recognise my self-worth. Their diverse life experiences and unique perspectives have enriched my understanding of resilience, adaptability, and perseverance.
HBA: How do you support the women in this group?
Fay: As an independent woman, I’ve realised through all the battles that we, as women, are capable of making our dreams come true. I want to encourage women to dare to pursue their goals. Even if you fail, try again because every failure makes you stronger. We are all talented, and we can achieve anything we set our minds to.
“ Our paths all crossed in Dubai, working with in the same luxury industry ”
Sophia Banoori
The Style Council
Always at the right place, party and province at the right time, it comes as no surprise that
this group of friends met at a fashion event (Manolo Blahnik’s, no less). Same-same, but
different, this chic set of working mums make it look effortless as they dash from one role
to another in serious style, and always with substance
Tala Ardalan: Founder, Vice-President of Ardalan Corporate Consultancy
Samara Punjabi: CEO of Timeless Group of Companies
Zina Khair: Art patron and founder of Le Marais 101
HBA: How does this group of friends support you in your everyday life?
Tala (TA): I generally don’t like to have a big group of friends so it’s extremely important for me to be able to feel comfortable and safe around my people. I value my girls for their honesty, and their ability to be real amongst so many fake humans these days. They are just the most beautiful, kind hearted people you will meet, always helping others as much as they can. Knowing that they exist in my life is the only support I need from them. When you have a good group of girlfriends you’re set for life. It doesn’t come easy, but once you find them, you’re golden.
HBA: What would Samara and Zina say makes you a good friend?
TA: If I have to guess, I’d say honesty. Everyone knows they will always get an honest answer out of me.
HBA: How alike are you all?
TA: Our core values are the same which is why we work so well with one another. I also love the fact that we are different in so many other aspects. So in a way we are always learning something new from each other. My friends are my rocks. No matter what, they are always there for me if I need them. I’m grateful that they were all there while I was pregnant, and after I gave birth, as I had a really bad case of postpartum depression and they really helped pull me out of it. Them, and running daily!
HBA: How often do you catch up?
Samara (SP): We chat about once a week as we are busy working mums. We try to meet as often as possible. Usually it’s in the mall, because I’m there for work, and it gives us a chance to catch up and shop at the same time.
HBA: Do you all have the same personalities?
SP: I think we’re all very different. But, something we have in common is our appreciation for the importance of family, friendship – and we share a love for fashion.
HBA: What has this group of friends taught you about life?
Zina (ZK): They, and my other friends whom I’ve met in Dubai, have taught me that it’s not about how long you’ve known someone or whether they come from the same background as you. What’s important lies in mutual respect, kindness, tolerance and being there for each other. They’ve shown me the value of diverse perspectives and how enriching it can be to connect with people who bring different experiences to the table.
HBA: Can new recruits join your girl gang?
ZK: Of course, our group values connections and welcomes new friendships that align with our shared values and interests. While we cherish our current bonds, we are open to expanding our circle and meeting new people who bring positivity and enriching experiences to our group.
“My friends are my rocks. No matter what, they are always there for me when I need them”
Tala Ardalan
Images Courtesy: Photography By Oscar Munar. Styling By Imogene Legrand.Make-up: Zara Nikmanesh. Lighting Assistant: Mark Anthony Navarro. Fashion Assistant: Bryan Liu. Special thanks to The Lana – Dorchester Collection, Dubai.
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s July/August 2024 issue.