Clad in sand-colored tailored trousers, a silk blouse, and a blazer elegantly draped over her shoulders, Dr. Haya Abdalla exudes the aura of a model destined for a Paris runway, which isn’t far from reality.
Based in Dubai, Dr. Haya, also known as Aya Abdallah, is a multifaceted professional. She is a licensed pharmacist, Miss Grand Egypt 2013, and holds over five international beauty titles. As a fashion entrepreneur, business consultant, and founder of the luxury e-commerce platform www.aatienda.com, her mission is clear: empower others while continuously evolving.
“I always envisioned owning a business,” she shares. “Even as a child, I dreamed of having a pharmacy. But as I matured, I realized my passions were many. I wanted to explore everything – modeling, marketing, sales, even TV channels – until I found my path.”
Her journey has indeed been remarkable.
Crowned Miss Grand Egypt in 2013 and representing her country at the first Miss Grand International pageant, Haya used her spotlight for learning, not just fame. “Modeling and pageantry teach resilience. You face constant judgment – your looks, your presence. It’s a tough world. Focus on self-improvement rather than criticism. Mentorship helps, though I had none. This made my journey tougher but also strengthened my resolve. I learned from mistakes. Now, I guide others facing similar challenges.”
Her move to Dubai in late 2016 marked a pivotal moment. While finishing her pharmaceutical studies, she ventured into trading, covering diverse fields like modeling, events, beauty, and cosmetics. After graduating, she explored fashion, lifestyle products, pharmaceuticals, construction, FMCG, and automotive sectors. “I’ve worn many hats,” she laughs. “But curiosity, courage, and a passion for success have been my constants.”
Her interests eventually led her to Italy for a Master’s in Fashion Management. This inspired the creation of www.AATienda.com. “I traveled extensively, visiting factories, meeting suppliers. Back in the UAE, I studied the market, met suppliers, and walked miles to understand the landscape,” she recalls. “I needed firsthand insight, not just opinions.”
Launched in 2022, AA TIENDA is a curated marketplace offering fashion, furniture, electronics, perfumes, gold and diamond jewelry, and marketing services. With over 22,000 products and global shipping, AA TIENDA also handles full-scale projects in furniture and electronics. Positioned at commerce and innovation’s crossroad, Haya aims for sustainable scaling.
“I wanted our products to be personal and tailored, not mass-produced,” she explains. “That’s why it’s boutique-style but powerful in reach.”
This bespoke strategy has made her a sought-after business consultant. Recently, she has supported many aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women, to launch ventures in fashion, real estate, and e-commerce. “One woman was overwhelmed, unsure of her next move. I provided a roadmap, guided her, and now she owns a real estate company,” Haya shares. “Helping others succeed is my greatest passion.”
Creating a marketplace is challenging, she notes. Managing suppliers, customers, logistics, and risks is taxing. For Haya, entrepreneurship is emotional. “If you’re not emotionally stable, business isn’t for you,” she says. “Calmness is key. The pressure is real.”
Her advice for aspiring founders:
First, stabilize your emotions and set clear goals. Second, organize your documentation. Third, find a product solving a genuine problem.
“I listen to their situation — budget, family issues, mindset — and create a realistic plan. I follow up to ensure they’re confident and established,” says Haya, supported by a skilled team.
Haya believes the Gulf, particularly the UAE, holds immense potential but requires thorough research. “Markets differ in demands and consumer behavior. Blind entry isn’t wise.”
As she prepares for a PhD in psychology, focusing on its intersection with e-commerce, Haya explores how human behavior influences buying and branding.
“Giving is essential to me,” she says. “When someone succeeds because of my help, that’s the ultimate reward. It fuels my passion.”
