Asma Al Muhairi, a 25-year-old public-sector marketing co-ordinator, along with her friend Hanan Al Rayes, inaugurated the #UAEdresscode campaign that went viral on Twitter two years ago.
Even though the UAE is yet to have a concrete dress-code law, Al Muhairi requests only one thing: cover what needs to be covered.
"There are countless sequel incidents about indecency in public places," Al Muhairi says. "Once, I saw a woman scantily dressed in a mall and many people showed disgust at the sight."
Shortly after the campaign, she decided to take some action for the sake of her country, national identity and future generation. She approached managers of shopping malls and complained about the sight. Failing to persuade them to intervene, she used Twitter as a platform to vent her concern.
"We were around five people tweeting back and forth about indecency using the #UAEdresscode hashtag," she says. "Soon after, the news reached Federal National Council and other authorities.
"We want decency, which is not against any group, race or religion. All we ask for is some respect when it comes to attire from our guests."
Al Muhairi wants to promote her cultural values and preserve them. "My career involves dealing with international clients along with local clients," she says. "Even in my career, I try my best to represent this country in the best manner I could."
To Al Muhairi, sharing each other's cultures and values are crucial as they improve interaction between communities.
Her message reached people outside the UAE. "One man told me that even in his country he doesn't get to see as much indecency as in here," she says. "Some people visit this conservative country and get shocked at the sight."
Who is your favourite author?
Robin Sharma. I read his The Greatness Guide and The Leader Who Had No Title. He is an inspiring author and he motivates anyone to be great leaders.
How do you plan to give back to your country?
I wake up every morning, feeling so grateful that I am part of this blessed place, going to work with the intention of being as productive as I can. Having a career is a blessing in itself. I am passionate about my career because it includes dealing with international clients. Anyone can promote her identity through working hard whether they be a mother, sister or employee.
Which is your favourite country?
Japan. I have been to Japan and it was an amazing journey.
What is your favourite movie?
Inception. The movie is mind-puzzling.
What is something unique about yourself?
What I like about myself is that I make sure I make someone's day on a daily basis. Smiling is a great form of sending happiness to anyone's heart. I want to be remembered in a good way because one day, we will all leave this world. I hope I leave a good mark after I expire.
What sort of people do you prefer being with?
I like to accompany creative people because they don't indulge in vain talk. Their conversation is beneficial to hear. I get to learn and think from them.
A principle you live your life by?
Never hold a grudge and forgive. Give unconditionally and always be grateful to God for what you have got, no matter how small it may seem
to you. What is small and insignificant may seem a blessing to others.
What are your hobbies?
I am a self-taught artist, I enjoy doodling random themes, especially eyes because they have the power to express deep meanings without any words; they define beauty. My hobbies also include pondering on the creations and trying to see the positive side of everything.
Who is your role model?
Sheikh Zayed. He is my father. To me, he is a book that I keep learning from. I wish we had a whole subject about this man because he possesses all good traits a human can have.
aalhameli@thenational.ae
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