Reem Haj Ali, the chief executive of DoctorUna.com, first moved to the UAE in 1997 to work at American Hospital Dubai. She later helped set up the rehabilitation department at Saudi German Hospital in the emirate. Last year the 39-year-old Syrian joined DoctorUna.com, an online platform that helps patients find physicians and book appointments in the UAE, Jordan and Egypt
Describe your financial journey so far.
It has been a steady journey and I was fortunate to start working for one of the top hospitals, American Hospital Dubai, when there were not many private healthcare options available in Dubai. Until I moved here I was with my family and was protected financially, but the challenge is once you are on your own and have to be financially independent. Throughout my career I have had consistent growth when it comes to my income and my positions. And I love Dubai. It is the only place to have managed to keep me for this long. I grew up in many countries – I was born in Poland, grew up in the United States and Nigeria, and went to high school in Brazil.
Are you a spender or saver?
I am a balanced person. But in such a consumer-based world and with so many responsibilities, we do tend to spend more than we save. I spend wisely and believe you should know your objectives and priorities when you are spending. Don’t look back and don’t feel guilty as long as you know that you are spending wisely.
What is your philosophy towards money?
I don’t think money brings complete happiness. It does give you peace of mind, and it’s crucial for sustainability. From a business perspective, no business can sustain without financial success. On the personal side, I believe if I am fortunate to have it, that is great, but you should save for a good cause whether it is toward yourself or others.
Have you made any financial mistakes along the way?
Generally I have been a safe player. Like a lot of people, I did invest in real estate just before the crisis, which posed some challenges at the time, but nothing really that hit me and my family in a hard way. I have recovered from the investment since.
If you won Dh1 million, what would you do with it?
I am a shareholder in DoctorUna.com, and I could use the money to grow my current business. I would also diversify into other sectors such as real estate and other long-term investments.
What has been your best investment?
Whether it was with money or time, my best investment was in my family. On a personal level, I think we cannot stop learning, especially in our field. Recently I have taken financial literacy and project management courses. Earlier when I was with hospitals, I did a lot of self development on the clinical side. It is actually one of the criteria to renew your practice licence in Dubai, to get continuous medical education.
Do you plan for the future?
Absolutely. I have three children – two sons aged 13 and seven and a four-year-old daughter. As a family with three children, we always need to plan for the future. You have to be clear on what your expectations are and where you plan to reach in the next 10 or 20 years.
What do you enjoy spending money on?
My children’s education. I also spend on travel because they need to be exposed to the outside world and learn about other cultures. Our next holiday will either be in Europe or South Africa. Last time we went to Canada, where we also have family. I also like spending on fun activities such as jet skiing and other water sports at a nice resort. It is pampering and relaxing and at the same time you are active.
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