Haute Secrets Dubai: Sumayyah Al Suwaidi

Sumayyah Al Suwaidi is an award-winning artist as well as an entrepreneur, curator, and fashion designer who lives in Abu Dhabi now. She fell in love with digital art in 1996, and since then, she hasn’t looked back. She received inspiration for her first collection from the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and released that collection in 2001. It wasn’t until two years later, however, that she had her first exhibition in Abu Dhabi.

Photo Credit: Sumayyah Al Suwaidi

Her work was one of many pioneer artists in the UAE during that exhibition, but in less than a decade, she has made a name for herself and now exhibits her work in several countries, including the U.S., the U.K., Kuwait, Morocco, Germany, and France. She has even sold a number of her pieces during large charity auctions, including one conducted by legendary auction house Christie’s in Dubai three years ago.

Photo Credit: Sumayyah Al Suwaidi

I had the pleasure of catching up with Sumayyah Al Suwaidi recently.

Where were you born?
Dubai

How long in the Middle East?
I am an Emirati and been living in the UAE all my life, 35 years.

Neighborhood?
Abu Dhabi, Khalifa City A

Occupation:
Entrepreneur

Favorite Restaurant?
Asha’s, Wafi Mall, Dubai

Best Sushi?
Koi, The Collection, Saadiyat Island

Best Italian?
Pregos, Beach Rotana Hotel, Abu Dhabi

Best dessert?
Carrot Cake by Beverly Cakes

Best place for a romantic date?
Chamas Intercontinental, Abu Dhabi

Best Sunday brunch?
Gossip, The Galleria, Abu Dhabi

Best place for a power business meeting?
Bee’s Knees, Nation Towers, Abu Dhabi

If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend?
Park Hyatt, Saadiyat Island

Favorite shopping venue/boutique?
Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi

Best Spa:
Chi Spa, Shangrila Hotel, Abu Dhabi

Favorite Cultural Event:
ADIHEX

Favorite Cultural Institution: 
It used to be The Cultural Foundation, Abu Dhabi,

Best Steakhouse:
Texas Roadhouse, Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi

Best Pizza:
Papa Murphy’s Pizza, Al Seef Mall, Abu Dhabi

Best Gym/Athletic Facility:
Abu Dhabi Country Club

Describe your city in three words:
Beautiful, Tolerant, Cozy

Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore:
Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

All-around favorite spot in Dubai:
Jumeirah

Best Aspect of AD/UAE Dubai/Middle East:
The Rulers of the UAE