Muna Al Haddad is a creative Emirati gem – an accomplished painter and poet, who in recent years has turned her attention to jewellery design.
Since launching her collection, Ghenej, in Harvey Nichols five years ago, Al Haddad has earned herself a Sheikha Shamsa bint Suhail Award for Creative Women in the UAE, and has been included as a jury member for the Ebda’a jewellery designer award, which is part of the formalities of the Jewellery and Watch Show, held in Abu Dhabi every year.
Al Haddad says, that at first, designing jewellery was a hobby to her, but her passion and creativity blossomed into a business, and she now has a boutique in Dubai’s Wafi Mall and another two scheduled to open in 2017 (one apiece in Abu Dhabi and Dubai).
“My biggest achievement is being a local jewellery designer in the Emirates – that makes me very proud, and I am getting good support from my Government,” she says. “I hope to sell internationally and form a connection with stores such as Harrods. I wish to be a designer with a big jewellery brand such as Chopard.”
The name Ghenej means “coquetry”, and was chosen by Al Haddad because it demonstrates the uniqueness of femininity. Her works are inspired by “anything beautiful” she sees; her collection, which consists of necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings, is also inspired by Oriental art, combining poetry, calligraphy and distinctively Emirati touches.
Al Haddad holds a master’s degree in global leadership, and her company, besides supporting local design talent, also helps and sponsors children with Down syndrome.
“I believe they are very strong people and they need encouragement. I like these people,” she says, adding she is also passionate about helping young designers find their way.
What's your favourite holiday destination?
Paris or London. I feel very comfortable there. This year, I am planning a trip to Italy, the land of jewellery.
What's your favourite book?
Anything by Dan Brown, but I prefer the Arabic versions.
Where do you go to relax?
Koh Samui in Thailand. It’s very relaxing and beautiful.
What’s your favourite genre of movies?
I don’t like thrillers, but I like action movies and romances.
What's your favourite colour?
White. It makes me feel relaxed and see it as a pure colour.
Which gemstone do you love the most?
Emerald. It’s very beautiful.
Where's your favourite place to visit in Dubai?
I like the hotels with a resort feel.
Who inspires you?
For work and business, it would be Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid.
What’s your favourite thing to do with friends?
When I am not working, I go to the coffee shop with my friends or we go to a spa.
mhealy@thenational.ae
Ten tax points to be aware of in 2026
1. Domestic VAT refund amendments: request your refund within five years
If a business does not apply for the refund on time, they lose their credit.
2. E-invoicing in the UAE
Businesses should continue preparing for the implementation of e-invoicing in the UAE, with 2026 a preparation and transition period ahead of phased mandatory adoption.
3. More tax audits
Tax authorities are increasingly using data already available across multiple filings to identify audit risks.
4. More beneficial VAT and excise tax penalty regime
Tax disputes are expected to become more frequent and more structured, with clearer administrative objection and appeal processes. The UAE has adopted a new penalty regime for VAT and excise disputes, which now mirrors the penalty regime for corporate tax.
5. Greater emphasis on statutory audit
There is a greater need for the accuracy of financial statements. The International Financial Reporting Standards standards need to be strictly adhered to and, as a result, the quality of the audits will need to increase.
6. Further transfer pricing enforcement
Transfer pricing enforcement, which refers to the practice of establishing prices for internal transactions between related entities, is expected to broaden in scope. The UAE will shortly open the possibility to negotiate advance pricing agreements, or essentially rulings for transfer pricing purposes.
7. Limited time periods for audits
Recent amendments also introduce a default five-year limitation period for tax audits and assessments, subject to specific statutory exceptions. While the standard audit and assessment period is five years, this may be extended to up to 15 years in cases involving fraud or tax evasion.
8. Pillar 2 implementation
Many multinational groups will begin to feel the practical effect of the Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax (DMTT), the UAE's implementation of the OECD’s global minimum tax under Pillar 2. While the rules apply for financial years starting on or after January 1, 2025, it is 2026 that marks the transition to an operational phase.
9. Reduced compliance obligations for imported goods and services
Businesses that apply the reverse-charge mechanism for VAT purposes in the UAE may benefit from reduced compliance obligations.
10. Substance and CbC reporting focus
Tax authorities are expected to continue strengthening the enforcement of economic substance and Country-by-Country (CbC) reporting frameworks. In the UAE, these regimes are increasingly being used as risk-assessment tools, providing tax authorities with a comprehensive view of multinational groups’ global footprints and enabling them to assess whether profits are aligned with real economic activity.
Contributed by Thomas Vanhee and Hend Rashwan, Aurifer
The specs
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On sale: now
GIANT REVIEW
Starring: Amir El-Masry, Pierce Brosnan
Director: Athale
Rating: 4/5
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