The British Canadian mother-of-two is an influential business woman who has taken Dubai by storm in recent times
Tell us a little bit about yourself
My Name is Amelia Smith and I am a British Canadian expat living in Dubai, which is where I call home! I have worked in the world of branding and advertising for the last 15 years and in 2023 I launched my consultancy company, 555 DXB, sharing my expertise with clients all over the world.
I have also just co-launched a second company with my business partner Hollie Briant called Dazed & Engaged. It is a one-stop e-shop dedicated to hen party celebrations, offering a high-quality curated selection of on-trend accessories and essentials, perfect for any bride-to-be! Hollie and I believe that a certain magic happens when women come together, support each other, lift each other up and achieve incredible things.
It’s inspiring and empowering and is the driving force behind everything we do at Dazed & Engaged to help you own your special day with your entourage. I have been married for nine years and we have two beautiful young children together and they are the my world!
How and when did you move here, and what inspired the move
My parents have lived between Abu Dhabi and Dubai since 1985 and I was born and raised in Abu Dhabi along with my older sister. We have both been lucky enough to grow up in such an incredible country and after a few years back in the UK for university, I jumped at the chance to move back to Dubai.
In 2014 I moved back with my husband and we’ve been living here now for 10 years and raising our beautiful children in the safest city in the world! The UAE has such a special place in my heart, and I am so fortunate to be able to call this amazing country, home.
How has living in Dubai shaped your sense of belonging and community?
Living in Dubai has deeply rooted my sense of belonging and community. Over the years, I’ve seen so many diverse people come together creating such a vibrant city with such an amazing culture of inclusivity and mutual respect.
I have felt this through both my professional and personal life, especially growing up here. I am so proud to be raising my children in such a beautiful environment that I have also experienced for so many years.
Can you tell us about a particular person in Dubai who has had a significant impact on your life and why?
It would have to be my dad. He has always been my rock and keeps me in check! He has lived an incredible life in so many different countries around the world and chose to call the UAE his home for nearly half of it, which gives him such a unique perspective on life.
My mum and sister were in the UK during covid, so my dad came and lived with us for the majority of that time and it was a blessing to have him around being my in-house life coach! He also made such a special bond with my daughter during that time, and they are inseparable now!
My dad has a wealth of experience both professionally and personally and has built a dream life for himself here in the UAE and although most in the UAE call their friends, family, I’m so lucky to have my own here too.
You might also like: 5 MINUTES WITH: Hollie Briant, business owner who’s lived here for almost 10 years
What is your favourite thing about the emirate and why?
My favourite thing about Dubai is its spirit of innovation and possibility. This city encourages dreams and turns them into reality. It’s a place where opportunities are endless and has allowed me to launch two businesses in two years in a constantly evolving environment. The way of life here is incredibly fast paced which I feel is part of the beauty – You never know who you could meet or where tomorrow may take you! That’s what makes it special to me.
A myth about Dubai that you would like to bust
It’s not all about the glitz and the glam! Dubai has so many spectacular sites, beaches, restaurants, events… (the list is endless) which is so incredible to have on our doorstep. However, it’s also incredibly safe, homely and the sense of community is everywhere. From the lovely school my children go to, to family iftars and gatherings – you really can live a slower paced life in this big city, or visa versa!
Could you share a memorable moment when you felt the genuine warmth and hospitality of the Dubai community in your own life?
I would have to say I have this feeling every Ramadan. Witnessing, and taking part in giving back to the community through food drives or simply breaking fast with your neighbours, it’s such a special time to reflect, come together and witness the generosity and kindness of the people of Dubai.
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