This week, we speak to Ajab Murga, Founder of QUTBI, the Kuwaiti jewellery brand that’s taking over our Instagram feeds. As elegance that transcends time and trends, each piece a masterpiece of luxury and allure.

Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.

To delve into her story more, Murga shares with us how her journey began as an entrepreneur.

What was your favourite subject at school?

My favorite subject was Biology. I was fascinated by the intricacies of living organisms and how life functions on a cellular level. This curiosity sparked my interest in understanding processes, which has translated into my approach to building and growing my brands.

What was your first job?

I didn’t follow the typical job route; instead, I started my brand with my dad. It was an incredible experience to build something from the ground up together, combining his business insights with my creative vision.

What brought you to Dubai?

The dynamic fashion and luxury scene in Dubai brought me here. It’s a city full of opportunities, where emerging brands can flourish. I wanted to be in a place that celebrates creativity and is a melting pot of different cultures, which aligns perfectly with my vision for QUTBI.

Qutbi Luxury

What inspired you to enter the space and start your brand?

The inspiration came from my love for jewelry and the desire to create pieces that tell a story. I wanted to blend traditional Kuwaiti elements with modern aesthetics, creating a brand that resonates globally. My passion for design and storytelling was a major driving force behind launching QUTBI.

Talk us through the concept.

QUTBI is a jewelry brand that fuses Kuwaiti heritage with a modern, minimalistic design philosophy. Each piece is crafted to reflect a balance between tradition and contemporary style, making it versatile for various occasions. Our goal is to create timeless jewelry that carries a sense of history and personal meaning for the wearer.

What are the key elements of your role?

As the founder, my role is multifaceted. I oversee the design process, work on brand strategy, manage collaborations, and ensure that every piece aligns with our brand’s vision. Additionally, I am deeply involved in marketing, focusing on building a strong brand presence for QUTBI.

Talk us through your daily routine.

My mornings start with a workout to clear my mind and get energized for the day. After breakfast, I dive into checking emails and planning the day’s agenda. I typically spend time designing new collections, meeting with suppliers, and coordinating with my team. Afternoons are often reserved for strategy meetings and collaborations. I also dedicate part of my day to social media and marketing planning. Evenings are for winding down, spending time with family, or attending networking events.

What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?

Stay true to your vision and be ready to adapt. The fashion and jewelry industry is constantly evolving, so it’s important to be flexible while maintaining your brand’s identity. Networking and building genuine relationships are key to finding opportunities and growth.

Tell us more about the products/services.

QUTBI offers a collection of fine jewelry that blends tradition with contemporary design. Our pieces range from statement necklaces to delicate rings, each crafted with the finest materials and attention to detail. We also provide bespoke services for clients looking to create personalized pieces..

What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?

“Follow your instincts and never compromise on your core values.” This advice has helped me navigate the challenges of building a brand while staying true to what I believe in.

And what is the worst?

“Don’t take risks; stick to what you know.” In business, especially in creative fields, taking calculated risks is essential for innovation and growth. Playing it safe limits your potential to stand out.

What’s the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?

One of the biggest challenges was balancing tradition with modern appeal during the rebranding of QUTBI. It required a deep understanding of our cultural roots while also catering to a global audience, but the process made our brand identity stronger and more defined.

What lies ahead for the brand?

We are planning to expand QUTBI’s presence in international markets and introduce new collections inspired by Kuwaiti heritage. We’re also focusing on enhancing client experiences with exclusive events like private viewings and styling workshops.

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Images: Instagram