Dubai has long been a city of innovation and opportunity, drawing in ambitious leaders from around the world who bring their unique perspectives to the city’s ever-evolving landscape. Among these remarkable figures is Mumtaz Essa, a dynamic entrepreneur and seasoned leader who is making her mark in Dubai’s real estate sector. Recognized as one of the region’s most promising figures, Mumtaz embodies resilience, adaptability, and the transformative power of passion-driven work.
Raised in Portugal and educated at a British International School, Mumtaz was immersed in a multicultural environment from a young age. This upbringing, enriched by a mix of languages and cultures, shaped her into a polyglot who fluently speaks English, Portuguese, Memon, and Urdu. These early experiences laid the groundwork for a life filled with adaptation, exploration, and leadership.
After moving to South Africa in 1995, Mumtaz embraced family life, raising three children while furthering her education. She became a dedicated teacher for over a decade, imparting knowledge to high school students and contributing meaningfully to the educational landscape. However, in 2014, a profound personal tragedy struck when Mumtaz lost her husband, marking a turning point in her journey. Determined to support her family, she took on various jobs over the next decade, ensuring her children had access to quality education and a stable future.
The pandemic, while challenging, brought with it an unexpected opportunity. Observing a need in the market, Mumtaz launched an online store that supplied essential items such as chargers across South Africa. Relying solely on her resourcefulness, she self-taught the skills required to manage the store, from onboarding on digital platforms to handling logistics. Once the business became self-sustaining, Mumtaz returned to her true passion in 2022 — connecting with people through media. This passion led to the launch of her successful talk show, *Business Trends with Mumtaz Essa*, where she engaged business leaders in insightful conversations about trends and entrepreneurship. Her ease on camera and rapport with guests quickly made the show a hit, reinforcing her natural talent as a presenter.
In 2022, Mumtaz took the bold step into Dubai’s competitive real estate market, establishing her presence with her own offices in the city. Her ability to balance multiple roles — as a real estate professional, online business expert, and media personality — makes her a multifaceted leader who is as comfortable in front of a camera as she is in a boardroom. Beyond her business ventures, Mumtaz is dedicated to empowering aspiring entrepreneurs, offering workshops and hands-on training for those interested in e-commerce and online stores. Her workshops are particularly popular, as she shares invaluable firsthand knowledge and tips that help others navigate the digital marketplace.
Mumtaz’s charisma and experience also make her a sought-after speaker, MC, and advisor at conferences and events. She thrives in these settings, where her ability to connect with an audience brings life to any event she attends. Her journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and a fearless pursuit of passion. From Portugal to South Africa and now Dubai, Mumtaz Essa is a true MENA Woman of Wonder, leaving a lasting impact on Dubai’s real estate sector and inspiring countless others to follow their entrepreneurial dreams.