With the rise of social media and the increasing demand for grooming services, the world of hairstyling has seen a surge in popularity, especially in the UAE. Danish Hanif, a talented hairstylist based in the UAE, has made a name for himself by grooming A-list Bollywood actors and top Indian cricket stars whenever they visit Dubai. Known for his high rates for haircuts, Hanif charges up to Dh1,500 for VIP clients, maintaining a high-profile clientele that includes some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry.
Hanif’s journey into the world of hairstyling began in New Delhi, where he was inspired by his father who was also a hairstylist. He received formal education and training under the guidance of Javed Habib, a renowned figure in Delhi’s hairstyling scene. Determined to excel in the industry, he moved to Mumbai in 2007 to work with Aalim Hakim, a well-known hairstylist catering to Bollywood stars. For nearly 11 years, Hanif honed his craft under Hakim’s guidance, gaining valuable experience and skills that eventually led him to Dubai.
In Dubai, Hanif has established a successful career, working with celebrities like Hrithik Roshan, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Kapoor, and many others. He has set up his own salon in Karama, where he caters to a wide range of clients, from Bollywood stars to corporate executives. Despite the glamour and fame associated with his job, Hanif emphasizes the hard work and dedication required to maintain his clients’ looks, especially during film shoots where consistency is key.
One of Hanif’s most memorable experiences was styling Hrithik Roshan during the filming of ‘Guzaarish’, marking the beginning of his journey into celebrity hairstyling. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a skilled and reliable hairstylist, earning the trust of his clients and forging long-lasting relationships with them. He shared that working with Bollywood legend Sanjay Dutt was a highlight, as Dutt’s easy-going nature made the experience enjoyable and rewarding.
Looking ahead, Hanif aspires to work with international icons like Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham, and Brad Pitt, showcasing his ambition and determination to reach new heights in his career. He plans to launch his own hair cosmetics brand and establish a training institute in Dubai to mentor aspiring hairstylists, emphasizing the importance of education and hard work in the hairstyling industry. With a growing team of employees and a thriving business, Hanif’s success story serves as an inspiration to those aspiring to make a name for themselves in the competitive world of hairstyling.
