For more than three decades, Farida Al Awadhi has been part of the UAE’s remarkable transformation in architecture, interior design and women’s entrepreneurship. As the founder of Cinmar Design in 1989, she built her career at a time when the interior design profession was still emerging in the country, establishing herself through professionalism, quality and a strong commitment to the UAE’s development.
When she began her journey, there were limited opportunities for Emirati women in the profession. Rather than seeing this as a barrier, Al Awadhi focused on education, continuous development and delivering work that could speak for itself. Over the years, Cinmar Design evolved from smaller projects into increasingly complex assignments, while maintaining a reputation built on quality, integrity and client trust.
Her approach to business has always been centered on sustainable growth rather than rapid expansion. She believes that successful design should not only be visually appealing, but also functional, responsible and connected to the people who use the spaces.
Preserving Identity Through Modern Design
The UAE’s rapid development has brought the country closer to the international design community, exposing local professionals to new technologies, materials and global trends. For Al Awadhi, however, international influence should never come at the expense of cultural identity.
She believes contemporary UAE design can embrace innovation while remaining rooted in its environment and heritage. Traditional principles such as natural ventilation, shading, courtyards and thoughtful use of materials continue to offer valuable lessons for modern sustainable design.
For her, sustainability is not simply about technology. It is about creating spaces that respond to people, their environment and their long-term needs.
Raising Professional Standards
Al Awadhi’s commitment to the profession extends beyond her own practice. As a founding member and former President of the Association of Professional Interior Designers (APID), she worked to strengthen professional standards and encourage greater awareness of ethical and responsible interior design.
Through APID, she supported professional education, workshops, seminars and stronger relationships between designers, universities and international organisations. Her involvement with the International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers (IFI) also helped strengthen connections between the UAE’s design community and the wider international industry.
One of the milestones she is particularly proud of was helping bring major international design gatherings to Dubai, positioning the UAE as an active contributor to global conversations around design and innovation.
Leadership Beyond Personal Success
As one of the pioneering Emirati women in interior design, Al Awadhi’s achievements have also carried a wider meaning. Receiving the Gulf Woman Executive of the Year Award in 1996 was an important recognition, but she views success as something that comes with responsibility.
Her philosophy is simple: reaching a position before others is not enough. The real achievement lies in creating opportunities and opening doors for those who come next.
This belief has shaped her involvement with professional associations, universities, advisory boards and business organisations, where she has continued to share knowledge and encourage higher standards within the industry.
Empowering Emirati Women
Her leadership journey has also extended into women’s entrepreneurship. As a former Chairperson and President of the Emirates Business Women Council, Al Awadhi witnessed the transformation of Emirati women from being underrepresented in business to becoming entrepreneurs, executives, scientists, investors and leaders across numerous sectors.
During her leadership, she focused on strengthening international relationships and creating opportunities for Emirati businesswomen to connect with organisations and entrepreneurs around the world. Her work included international business missions and partnerships across several markets.
One of the major highlights was the World Women Entrepreneurs Summit 2023 in Abu Dhabi, held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak. The event brought together women entrepreneurs, business leaders and experts from more than 35 countries, while creating opportunities for networking, collaboration and future partnerships.
For Al Awadhi, empowering women is not simply about giving them opportunities. It is about enabling them to become creators of opportunities for others and active contributors to the future of the UAE.