Royal Collections - Dr Reem Tariq El Mutwalli

Talks About Her Regal Upbringing, Explaining Her Passion For Culture, Collecting And Clovers

- Kelly Johnstone

Art and design are the absolute foundation of Dr Reem’s universe, something that is almost hugely evident the second the interior designer and author opens the enormous carved wooden door to her Meadows Dubai home.

A complete overhaul of what outwardly looks just like any other property on the development, showcases the mother-of-one’s obvious passion for all things creative.

Minute, elaborate details coupled with an eclectic mix of decor provide striking contrasts from one room to the next, whilst the stunning pieces of art that lavishly adorn the painted walls are testament to the immaculately-dressed collector’s royal connections and famous friendships.

There is so much to see – and that’s even before we catch a glimpse of some of the most incredible pieces from her 180-piece thawb collection – each item with its very own story to tell.

We sit down with the Iraqi-born Dr Reem, who spent her childhood living in the company of the UAE’s ruling family, to find out about the inspiration behind the extensive work she’s done on her family abode and to discover all about the history and beauty of the precious and priceless items it houses.

You were born in Iraq in the 60s; how did you end up calling the UAE home?

“I have lived here since 1968 when my father was appointed economic consultant to the then Crown Prince His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. I consider myself to be Iraqi by birth, Western in education and upbringing, Arab in spirit and Emirati in passion.”

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