Whether pioneering the path for professional women in the UAE or conquering mountains, Salwan Al Shaibani tackles her goals with a clear vision, intelligence and perseverance.
After graduating with honors from George Washington University in Washington D.C. Salwan began her career at Citigroup as an intern, where she rose through the ranks to eventually Manage the Credit Administration Department. In her leadership position at Citigroup, Salwan Al Shaibani played a critical role among the firms management as she monitored credit risks, conducted financial analysis and reported exposures to industry regulators.
Upon recognizing budding opportunities within the media and advertising field, Salwan was compelled to branch her wings and soar into the industry by founding Spellbound, a firm dedicated of two business units: Advertising and General Trading. A perfect marriage of Salwan Al Shaibani’s knowledge of the financial realm and her creative and innovative visions, the divisions of Spellbound work in tandem, collaborating to strategically position commodities and merchandise in niche markets.
Never daunted by challenges, some of Salwan’s favorite endeavors include climbing Mount Fuji and hiking through Austria to challenge the perception of women in the UAE. When she isn’t blazing trails or quite literally conquering mountains, what does Salwan Al Shaibani favor the most in Dubai? She shares her Haute Secrets in this personal interview.
Where were you born? Dubai
How long have you been in the Middle East? All my life
Neighborhood:Â Jumeirah
Occupation:Â Entrepreneur
Favorite Restaurant:Â Tough one, but I will go with Zuma!
Best Sushi:Â Origami
Best Italian:Â Eatly
Best Dessert:Â A tie between anything dark chocolate and saffron
Best place for a romantic date: Pink sand desert, bonfire and a full moon
Best Sunday brunch:Â Anise, Intercontinental Hotel Festival City
Best place for a power business meeting:Â AlSerkal Avenues
If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend? Either Anantara the Palms or The Address Downtown
Favorite shopping venue/boutique: Dubai Mall / everything along the Fashion Avenue
Best Spa:Â Talise Ottoman Spa
Favorite Cultural Event: Qasr Alhosn Festival – Abu Dhabi
Favorite Cultural Institution:Â Art Dubai
Best Steakhouse:Â Prime 68
Best Pizza:Â Capri Italian Grill
Best Gym/Athletic Facility:Â Talise fitness
Describe your city in three words:Â Dynamic, Innovative, smart
Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore:Â Heritage Area of AlFahidi/ AlBastakia
All-around favorite spot in Dubai:Â Creek Side on an Abra Ride
Best Aspect of AD/UAE/Dubai/Middle East:Â Embedded culture, world class, adaptable
Haute Beauty
December 15, 20155 Essential Fragrances for the Holiday Season
