HH Sheikha Mahra On Being A Role Model And Starting Her Own Family | Exclusive Interview
“I am eagerly anticipating the opportunity to witness the growth and development of my children”
HH Sheikha Mahra On Being A Role Model And Starting Her Own Family | Exclusive Interview
How does one successfully project a regal air? Not just through sophistication, or glamour, or indeed elegance – which, whilst all necessary ingredients, also happen to be 10 a penny. No… how does that rarefied quality of true majesty assert itself in the real world? In the case of Her Highness Sheikha Mahra Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, it is certainly via all of the above, but it is a quiet confidence and her ability to command a room without fuss that really sets her apart. A true royal – someone who is as beloved as they are respected.
It makes Her Highness’ preternatural knack for putting those around her at ease all the more impressive. She arrives on our Bazaar Arabia cover set with a genuine smile, a graceful willingness to try all our chosen looks, and a kind word for each of our – rather awe-struck – crew. The only daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, and Ruler of Dubai, and Zoe Grigorakos, Sheikha Mahra reflects both the generosity of spirit of her father’s Emirati roots, and the famed warmth of her mother’s Greek heritage.
Harper’s Bazaar Arabia received a rare audience with Sheikha Mahra herself to discuss motherhood, legacy and the poignant pride that comes with her Emirati culture…
HH Sheikha Mahra On Being A Role Model And Starting Her Own Family | Exclusive Interview
HBA: When it comes to starting your own family, what are you most excited about? What’s one lesson your mother taught you that you hope to pass on to your children?
HH Sheikha Mahra: I am eagerly anticipating the opportunity to witness the growth and development of my children. It is my intention to provide them with a nurturing and loving environment, and most importantly, to support them in discovering their true selves. My mother instilled in me the value of showing kindness to others and leading with empathy rather than judgment. I aspire to pass on this important lesson to my own children.
HBA: You’re in a position where you are a role model to many. Have you always considered this or is it more a recent realisation? How does that responsibility feel?
HH Sheikha Mahra: It is a recent discovery, to say the least. Serving as a role model to someone is a significant responsibility, and one that I deeply value and take seriously. While it can be challenging at times, I am committed to adhering to my moral values and upbringing to help guide me in making decisions that feel ethically sound.
HBA: Speaking of role models, or mentors, who are yours and what are the most beautiful pieces of advice they’ve bestowed upon you?
HH Sheikha Mahra: I am fortunate to have been raised by both of my parents, each imparting their own unique cultural background and values. I am appreciative of the diversity in my upbringing and recognise the importance of unity and openness in shaping my perspective on life.
Photography: Vladimir Marti. Styling: Nour Bou Ezz. Editor in Chief and Words: Olivia Phillips. Make-Up: Alberto at Alberto Make-Up. Hair: Ebraheem AlSoleman. Senior Producer: Steff Hawker. Hair Stylist’s Assistant: Sam Asaad. Lighting Assistant: Mark Anthony Navarro. Fashion Assistants: Charlotte Marsh Williams & Christina Leighton.
Special thanks to Sofia Khan and Al Seef Heritage Hotel.
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s January 2023 issue.
