HH Sheikha Mahra On Morals, Marriage, And Impending Motherhood | Exclusive Cover Interview

A shining example of Emirati elegance, Her Highness Sheikha Mahra Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum shares her wisdom on motherhood, legacy and the poignant pride that comes with her Emirati culture…

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.

Demonstrating this even further is the 29-year-old’s well-documented love of animals. She talks to us about her pets – there’s one “naughty one,” she shares, namechecking Pablo, her white pomeranian with an affectionate laugh. Her Highness’ natural synergy with animals becomes all the more clear as the shoot continues, as she poses effortlessly with the two falcons and two salukis we have brought to set. Between shots, she regales us with tales of the beautiful, storied connection both have with her homeland of the UAE. It’s heart-warming to witness, and is just one small insight into what has made her such a highly regarded member of the royal family.

Her Highness’ nuptials in June last year to His Highness Sheikh Mana Al Maktoum was therefore understandably met with extraordinary jubilation, showcasing the royal couple’s thriving regard both at home and abroad. This shared joy was then only intensified by their announcement in October that they were expecting their first child, with Her Highness posting an ultrasound scan on her Instagram Stories, tagging her husband. “Just the three of us,” she wrote sweetly, accompanying the words with three white hearts. With a fledgling marriage and a royal baby on the way – traditionally times of great personal metamorphosis – 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 Morals, Marriage, And Impending Motherhood

Harper’s Bazaar Arabia (HBA): What are you most proud of about being Emirati? And what is your favourite memory intertwined with the culture growing up?

HH Sheikha Mahra: The source of my pride as an Emirati stems from the deep-rooted values of love, family, and advancement that characterise this country, as it consistently achieves new milestones across various domains. It is not tied to any specific recollection, but rather to my formative years spent in the UAE with my family. Reflecting on these cherished memories fills me with warmth and nostalgia.

HBA: What are you most excited to see happen in the UAE over the next 10 years?

HH Sheikha Mahra: The United Arab Emirates represents advancement and progress, offering limitless possibilities. I am eager to witness the innovative greatness that it will bring. Additionally, the increasing presence of women in the workforce and the prospect of further growth are aspects that I anticipate with great enthusiasm.

HBA: How do you feel the Emirati legacy has been – and will be – written into the sands of time?

HH Sheikha Mahra: I have a deep appreciation for the Emirati heritage and its encompassing qualities. I take great pride in embodying the values of being Emirati, which include being a symbol of love, family, kindness, and camaraderie. Our communal culture flourishes through our unity, and I believe this is a source of pride for us.

HBA: What would you like your role to be in this? Is legacy something you have started thinking about on a personal level?

HH Sheikha Mahra: It is common for individuals to consider the legacy they will leave behind. Personally, I aspire to leave a legacy that will bring pride to my family and myself. While embodying kindness and generosity is a commendable legacy, there is also value in ambition and personal growth. It is important to recognise that women are not limited to traditional roles as mothers, but also excel in professions such as pilots, doctors, and soldiers, among others. It is essential to showcase the multifaceted nature of women.

HBA: Now that you’re going to be a mother, has your perspective shifted about legacy in any way?

HH Sheikha Mahra: My viewpoint has unquestionably changed, as caring for my child has become my utmost priority. It is essential to raise our children to reach their full potential, and in order to do so, I must hold myself to a high standard and serve as a model of exemplary motherhood. Additionally, it is important for women to have individual accomplishments outside of motherhood, as they possess a natural ability to excel in various areas.

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.

HBA: You have embraced social media – did you have any concerns or do you see it as a tool you can harness to connect and communicate your point of view? Were there other royals you saw navigate this path successfully?

HH Sheikha Mahra: As a member of the royal family, these considerations are always present. Growing up allows for a greater understanding of the privileges and responsibilities that come with royal status. While this comes with a weight of responsibility, I consider it to be a positive aspect. Embracing this responsibility allows for the opportunity to raise awareness and to use one’s platform to share meaningful perspectives. I believe that this enhances connectivity and togetherness, which are essential for a flourishing society. Although there may be drawbacks, I am of the opinion that the benefits outweigh the negatives.

HBA: How do you stay connected to your Greek roots? Do you speak the language? Did you visit often growing up?

HH Sheikha Mahra: My upbringing was deeply rooted in Greek culture by my mother, and as a result, I feel a strong sense of connection to it. Maintaining close ties with my family is a significant priority in my life, as it serves as a means to remain closely connected to my cultural heritage. I am fluent in the Greek language and make an effort to visit my homeland as frequently as my circumstances allow.

HBA: You looked truly spectacular at your wedding. What was the highlight?

HH Sheikha Mahra: Having the opportunity to celebrate this union with the people I hold dear is incredibly significant to me. The memories created during this time were truly the most memorable part of the experience.

HBA: What’s the best part about being married? Is married life what you thought it would be?

HH Sheikha Mahra: I have been married for a short period of time, so I cannot speak from the experience of a long-lasting marriage. However, I believe that being with a person who is ambitious and encourages you to have aspirations is a key factor in achieving success in a marriage. While there are challenges that come from different perspectives, they are a natural part of marriage and can bring you closer to your partner.

HBA: Tell us about your love of animals…

HH Sheikha Mahra: My passion for animals, particularly horses, is a significant part of my life. I am dedicated to supporting and advocating for all animals, and I actively contribute my time and resources to make a positive impact on these magnificent creatures who have a profound impact on our lives.

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.