Kate JanIn the heart of Dubai, a 23-year-old artist is redefining what it means to be a trailblazer in the art world. Safa Peshimam’s journey is not just about accolades and titles—it’s a story of passion, perseverance, and the belief that creativity can transform lives. From her humble beginnings sketching in her living room to becoming the youngest art entrepreneur in Dubai, Safa’s rise has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Safa’s journey into the art world began long before she became a well-known name in Dubai. Growing up in the UAE, she was always drawn to creativity, expressing herself through sketches, photography, and design. However, it wasn’t just about creating beautiful pieces of art—it was about telling stories and using art as a tool for connection and communication. From a young age, Safa understood the power of art to transcend boundaries and bring people together.
While studying at Heriot-Watt University, where she earned her Master’s in International Business Management with a focus on Marketing (Honors), Safa’s entrepreneurial spirit began to emerge. She realized that the world of art needed more than just artists; it needed platforms that could elevate voices and connect emerging talent with opportunities. This realization led her to create Hayat Arts, an event management company with a mission to transform the art scene in Dubai and beyond.
Hayat Arts, founded by Safa in her early 20s, is more than just an art business—it’s a revolution in the way art is perceived and presented. Hayat Arts quickly established itself as a hub for contemporary and traditional art alike. The company’s vision is clear: to bridge the gap between emerging and established artists while creating spaces for creative exchange. Over the course of just 8 months, Safa successfully organized 10 art exhibitions, solidifying her status as the youngest art entrepreneur to make such an impact in the region.
Each exhibition hosted by Hayat Arts is a celebration of diversity, culture, and expression. By showcasing both local and international artists, Safa creates a dynamic and inclusive environment where art is not just displayed but experienced. The exhibitions are designed to foster collaboration, inspire innovation, and highlight the power of art in connecting people from all walks of life. The success of these events reflects Safa’s dedication to her craft and her understanding of the art world’s evolving landscape.
Safa’s influence extends far beyond Dubai. She is a member of several prestigious global organizations, including the Art Association in Geneva, Switzerland, and the Dubai Business Women Council (DBWC). Her appointment as the Art Director for UNESCO and her role as the Ambassador of Art for Italy in 2024 are clear indicators of her rising influence in the international art scene. Safa’s work is constantly expanding, and she continues to gain recognition for her efforts to support the global art community.
One of the defining moments of Safa’s career came when she received the Golden Visa for the UAE, a rare honor granted to individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. This prestigious recognition is a testament to Safa’s hard work, her commitment to the arts, and her growing impact on the cultural landscape.
Safa’s success has been marked by numerous accolades and awards. Among them are being featured in the prestigious Dubai-magazine, Womenpreneur Middle East, Haute Bazar International and many more. She has won multiple awards some being the “Emerald ARTYA Award-USA”, “Youngest Entrepreneur Award”, “International Prize Michelangelo’s “The Genius of Italy” and “The “Artistic Career Award 2023 – Italy” Her poetic endeavors have also earned her recognition, with her poetry collection Elegy captivating audiences and contributing to her standing as a multifaceted artist and public figure. These awards are a reflection of Safa’s diverse talents and her ability to seamlessly blend art, entrepreneurship, and advocacy.
Her creative vision is not confined to the walls of galleries or the pages of books. Safa’s work as a digital content creator, fashion designer, and photographer allows her to express herself in multiple mediums, creating a rich tapestry of work that resonates with audiences around the world. Her commitment to supporting emerging artists while embracing new forms of artistic expression makes her a dynamic and forward-thinking leader in the art world.
One of Safa’s core values is her commitment to empowering others. Through Hayat Arts, she has given a platform to countless emerging artists, helping them gain exposure and connect with the art community. By providing artists with opportunities to showcase their work, Safa is helping to elevate voices that may otherwise go unheard. Her passion for inclusion and diversity drives her to create opportunities for artists from all backgrounds and experiences to thrive.
Safa’s work as a philanthropist further amplifies her impact. She has worked tirelessly to advocate for the rights of artists, promote cultural exchange, and use art as a means of social change. Whether through her work with UNESCO or her involvement in community-focused art projects, Safa is dedicated to using her platform to make a difference in the world.
Despite her incredible achievements at such a young age, Safa’s journey is far from over. Her future in the art world is filled with exciting possibilities. As she continues to expand Hayat Arts globally, she plans to curate even larger exhibitions, support more artists, and foster greater collaboration across borders. Her vision is to create a global platform for artists that transcends geographical and cultural barriers, allowing art to be a unifying force in an increasingly fragmented world.
Safa’s story is one of inspiration. It’s about a young woman who dared to dream big and turned that dream into a reality. Her work continues to challenge the status quo, and she remains dedicated to her mission of transforming the art world into a more inclusive, diverse, and dynamic space. As an artist, entrepreneur, and advocate, Safa Peshimam is a beacon of creativity and innovation—a true pioneer in the art world.