Some of her favorite looks have been sourced locally from homegrown brands. “I really love Bouguessa,” she says. “It matches my style perfectly—it’s very modest but also very modern, and a perfect mix between East and West. They have beautiful cover-ups, abayas, kaftans, as well as suits and dresses and I love the fact that everything is made in the UAE.”
Two more of her favorites: Saudi label Abadia (“they have gorgeous abayas and kaftans”) and Qatari brand 1309 Studio (“beautiful, very modest”)
Traveling often between Morocco and Dubai over the years, Oumayma says the Middle East has influenced her in myriad ways, not solely in a modest aesthetic. “The Middle Eastern woman is very strong which also defines my style perfectly, as well as being independent,” she says. “Although people outside may see Middle Eastern women very differently, in my household, we’ve always been told to be strong, feel strong and confident.”
She likes to weave in elements of her Moroccan heritage where she can through accessories. While in Morocco she will dress traditionally, but add some designer shoes or a handbag. “My Amazigh culture has always inspired me and has always been part of who I am,” she shares.
“I think I’ve developed a whole style around it. I like to style a few cultural elements into daily outfits, such as a beautiful Moroccan choker, for example.”
Oumayma is always on the hunt for inspiration for her unique photo shoots, and when in Dubai, she can be found scouring markets and hidden corners of the city. “I like to go to Alserkal Avenue where a lot of creative people hang out to sit in a cafe and work,” she says. “For shopping, I like THAT Concept Store—it has lots of interesting labels. And I love the vibrant mix of cultures in Dubai, so I go to Satwa for the food and to discover new restaurants to eat where locals eat. I also love customizing my own stuff so I meet with the tailors there, who are very talented.”
What to pack for Dubai according to Oumayma
A tote bag
“Always carry a tote with you. They’re perfect for a beach day—I choose raffia or canvas, and my favorite style is the Loewe tote.”
A pair of sneakers
“You’re going to be walking around the city a lot. If you want to go to the mall, you need a pair of sneakers because the malls are huge. Sometimes if I haven’t done enough cardio, I go to the mall to walk around and reach my 10,000 steps (easily). Tip: The mall can be very cold, so I always wear a jacket or a hoodie.”
Swimsuit or bikini
“I prefer bikinis as it’s easier to maximize a tan, but I love a swimsuit worn with a skirt or pants. Swimsuits can also double as a bodysuit, which looks cool.”
A maxi dress
“I wear more maxi dresses in Dubai than anywhere else as they are super light and are great as an easy cover-up if grabbing a quick lunch at the beach.”
Sandals
“A pair of comfy sandals is very important. I love to invest in a good pair of designer sandals as I wear them every day while on vacation.”
Sunglasses
“Definitely something that you need to bring with you—it is always sunny.”
Face cream with good SPF protection
“The sun is so strong in Dubai, you have to avoid sun damage with a good SPF face cream.”
An oversized suit or blazer
“A blazer has always been one of my essentials, especially one with power shoulders.”
A cocktail dress
“Finally I would say a cute cocktail dress for dancing the night away on the beach.”
