Sharon James, Health and Menopause Coach shares her journey of navigating the competitive landscape in Dubai
A firm believer in hard work, Sharon James has sometimes wondered if a 9-5 would be easier. Luckily for Dubai, she’s stayed strong with Mindful Meals, and continues to carve a well-known spot for herself in the competitive space.
Spend 5 minutes getting to know her better!
Can you tell us a little about your background and journey starting a business in Dubai?
I’ve always been drawn to health and wellness. From a young age, this field has been a natural part of who I am, and I’ve remained dedicated to it from my school days to my current role as the founder of a health and menopause coaching company and the co-founder of a healthy meal plan company, a journey spanning over 30 years. In 2009, I decided to bring my passion and experience to Dubai, where I saw a real opportunity to impact the growing community here.
The wellness industry was just starting to grow and I realised that education was needed to make a positive impact on people’s lives. I set up a free zone coaching company and I remember all the paperwork and visa process being quite daunting. Looking back, it has become a lot easier to navigate set up and run a business in Dubai since then.
What led to your decision to start a business in Dubai, and how has the experience been so far?
When it came to launching Mindful Meals, the idea really blossomed after meeting the right person at the right time – my business partner, Varsha. I’d encountered so many of my coaching clients struggling with meal plans that simply didn’t cater to their specific health needs or lifestyles. When Varsha and I discussed setting up Mindful Meals, I realised it would allow me to provide a full spectrum of service for my clients, where I could directly influence the quality and nutritional balance of what they ate. This control over meal provision has been transformational for both my clients and my coaching practice
How has being an entrepreneur in Dubai influenced your connection to the community and your sense of belonging?
Entrepreneurship can sometimes feel like an isolated path, particularly in a fast-paced environment like Dubai. I realized early on that I needed to actively create a network – a community of support that feels more like family. This network not only connects me with people who share similar challenges but also provides a sense of belonging and motivation to keep going even on the tough days.
Getting involved in events and projects within Dubai, like the GCC Menopause Summit which I co-founded has also helped me deepen my community ties and create a sense of purpose beyond the day-to-day grind of running a business.
Could you highlight someone in Dubai who has played a significant role in supporting your business journey, and what impact did they have?
There have been many people along the way who’ve supported me, and it’s hard to name just one. My Mindful Meals business partner Varsha has been integral, bringing expertise and perspective that complements mine. Additionally, my clients have played an enormous role – those who have been with me through my wellness coaching and now Mindful Meals. Their trust and feedback shape everything I do, and their personal successes are deeply motivating. Especially when they continued to support me through COVID.
What do you appreciate most about conducting business in Dubai, and how does it contribute to your entrepreneurial journey?
Dubai is a place that values innovation and forward-thinking, and I’ve always appreciated the emphasis on growth and self-improvement here. Dubai’s infrastructure and vibrant community encourage me to constantly improve my services and stay at the forefront of wellness solutions. You can do anything here, and Dubai is a great place to make it happen.
However, with such a high level of competition in a relatively small city, standing out requires constant innovation and adaptability. While many assume it’s easy to conduct business in Dubai, success isn’t handed to you on a plate you have to work hard for it. But if you put yourself out there, you have the chance to grow significantly and connect with the right people who can help you achieve your goals
What common misconception about starting a business in Dubai would you like to dispel based on your experience?
One major misconception about starting a business in Dubai and, really, anywhere is that it’s easy. It’s far from that. At times, I’ve wondered if a 9-5 job might be simpler. Running a business demands constant commitment, and in Dubai, with its fast pace and high standards, this is amplified.
But the hard work pays off, especially when you see positive changes in your business. So, I’d say to anyone considering it: be prepared to work hard, but also to be rewarded in unexpected ways
Share a memorable moment where you experienced the genuine hospitality and support of the Dubai community in your entrepreneurial endeavours.
There have been countless moments, but one that stands out is the overwhelming support for the GCC Menopause Summit. The backing from the local health and wellness community, and even from clients who volunteered to help or spread the word, has been heartwarming.
Seeing people come together to address an issue that affects so many women, yet is rarely discussed openly, has been a truly memorable experience that reminds me why I chose Dubai as the home for my business.
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