Noora and Mariam Al Helali are two Emirati sisters in their 20s who have gained popularity in Dubai for their fluency in Malayalam, a language spoken by people from Kerala, India. Their proficiency in the language led them to lend their voices to characters in the first Emirati-dubbed Malayalam film, Turbo Arabic, which was recently released. The sisters attribute their ability to speak Malayalam to their upbringing in a diverse environment, where they were exposed to different cultures from an early age, along with Malayalam-speaking nannies.
Growing up in a multicultural setting, Noora and Mariam realized the power of sharing their thoughts and perspectives, which prompted them to start a YouTube channel to showcase the Emirati lifestyle and culture. Through their channel, the sisters aim to provide both male and female viewpoints and express their views on various topics. Their identity as Emirati women influences their content creation, as they aim to represent their country with pride, reflecting values of tolerance and empowerment.
In an interview, the sisters discussed the milestones in their journey that have shaped their growth and recognition. They highlighted a significant moment when Noora’s translation skills were recognized during health drives in labor camps, showcasing her abilities beyond her primary role. The sisters also found cultural similarities between Emirati and Kerala cultures, noting the similarities in the upbringing of children by Christian mothers in Kerala and Emirati mothers.
As proud Emirati women, Noora and Mariam are passionate about incorporating aspects of their culture into their daily lives. They cite the support and empowerment of Emirati women by the country’s rulers as a source of pride, which they carry forward by embracing their heritage and striving for excellence. In the rapidly changing world, being an Emirati woman to them means having the freedom to pursue their dreams without barriers, following the legacy of empowerment initiated by Sheikh Zayed.
Looking towards the future, the sisters envision a continued evolution of Emirati women’s roles within the UAE and on the global stage. They believe that Emirati women will continue to break new ground and make significant contributions in various fields, encouraged to explore new opportunities and achieve their highest potential. As role models, they encourage young Emirati women to embrace their dreams, make mistakes, and strive to make a difference, always aiming to make their nation proud.
Noora and Mariam are inspired to promote cultural integration and understanding by their upbringing and school experiences, which underscore the importance of bridging cultural gaps. Their future goals, both personally and professionally, revolve around being symbols of tolerance and harmony, building bridges between cultures, and creating a welcoming environment for all residents of the UAE. Through their work and dedication, the sisters aim to continue spreading positivity and showcasing the richness of Emirati culture to the world.
