From a passion for the kitchen nurtured during her studies, to a fully-equipped store in Al Manar Mall worth AED 2 million… This is how the journey of Mirea Mohamed Ibrahim Al-Jamali, a 20-year-old Emirati entrepreneur, unfolded. Starting with homemade sweets, she transformed a hobby into a promising brand in the food and beverage sector. This story highlights the rising trend of youth entrepreneurship in the UAE, and Mirea’s success serves as an inspiration for aspiring business owners.
Winning Start: Mirea’s Patisserie & the Ras Al Khaimah Creativity Award
The “Ras Al Khaimah Creativity Award – Food & Beverage Category” recently announced Mirea Al-Jamali as the winner of a fully-equipped retail space in Al Manar Mall, valued at approximately AED 2 million, for her project, “Mireana Patisserie.” This prestigious award, organized by the Saud bin Saqr Foundation for Youth Project Development, sponsored by the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce, and witnessed by the Chamber’s President, Mohammed Musbeh Al Naeimi, represents significant recognition and a vital launchpad for her burgeoning business. The event drew over 20,000 visitors to Al Manar Mall’s ‘Restaurant Village’, further showcasing the region’s enthusiasm for local talent.
Mirea emphasizes to Al Emarat Al Youm that her passion wasn’t just a fleeting enjoyment; she believes she offers something genuinely “different, and deserving of becoming a real project.” Her vision wasn’t simply to open another bakery.
A Unique Concept: Bakery, Café & Interactive Workshops
“I wanted to create something beyond a traditional bakery,” Mirea explains. “The idea combines a specialized pastry shop with innovative treats, a café serving classic beverages and signature cakes, and interactive cake decorating workshops. This combination gives my brand a unique identity.”
When describing Mireana Patisserie to those who haven’t yet experienced its offerings, Mirea doesn’t talk about products, but about an experience. “I describe my project as a complete experience, not just a product. From the first bite to the last detail, everything is made with love and care,” she shares. “What sets me apart is that every recipe is my own creation, every product has a story and character, and I focus on creative marketing and building trust with customers.” This dedicated approach to quality and personal touch is a key element driving the success of this small business.
Overcoming Challenges: Balancing Studies & Startup Life
Like any entrepreneur, Mirea faced challenges. “The biggest obstacle was balancing my studies with managing the project.” She dedicated a full month, working tirelessly day and night, preparing her proposal for the competition. “I ensured every detail was meticulously planned. My belief in the project and the support of my family helped me overcome everything.” She firmly states that she never considered giving up. “Self-confidence was always stronger than tiredness. I’m not willing to back down because I know the value of what I offer.” The commitment to business development truly shines through in her story.
Impressing the Judges: Passion, Maturity & Identity
Mohammed Musbeh Al Naeimi, President of the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce, praised the high quality of the entries and the transparent, objective nature of the competition, affirming its contribution to fostering a culture of creativity among young people and strengthening innovation and entrepreneurship in the Emirate.
Lee Norstrmore, Vice President of Shopping Mall & Retail at Al Manar Mall and a judge on the panel, stated that what caught their attention wasn’t just the product quality, but Mirea herself. “Her passion, confidence, and ability to deliver a professional, mature presentation beyond her years were remarkable, as was her clear understanding of her brand identity.” He added that her products have a “warm, homely feel, and a personal touch that will give her brand a distinctive place in a crowded market.”
Ahmed Ghare, Assistant Executive Chef and another member of the judging panel, noted Mirea’s ability to create a genuine business “without any external support, demonstrating a clear understanding of her offering, sophisticated marketing, and a self-defined brand identity.” He shared that he followed her work and was impressed by her attention to detail, mirroring the commitment of large corporations. “Mirea is capable of achieving amazing results with a little support from experts and in marketing.”
Future Plans & a Message to Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Having secured her AED 2 million store at Al Manar Mall, Mirea’s immediate focus is a “detailed study of the store’s operation –costs, team, production, and customer experience – to ensure a strong start and sustained growth.” She confidently outlines her plans for expansion, first within Ras Al Khaimah, then across the rest of the UAE, and eventually to neighboring countries.
Mirea offers a powerful message to young women hesitant to start their own businesses: “The hardest step is the beginning. After that, things get easier. Don’t hesitate. The experience itself is a reward.” She embodies the spirit of women in business and offers a valuable role model for others.
Mirea Al-Jamali’s story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a clear vision. It offers an encouraging glimpse into the future of entrepreneurship in the UAE, driven by innovative young minds like hers.
