Want to get your hands on something that’s truly one-of-a-kind?

Then check out these four Abu Dhabi residents, who are creating everything from furniture to luxury soaps and handbags – by hand.

Beba Creations

beba

After leaving the corporate world to pursue his passion, American expat Tariq Riaz began creating furniture in his back garden. Flash forward two years and Riaz now has a warehouse in Musaffah where he creates unique designs (think lounge chairs, light fixtures, bathtubs and sinks) from wood, resin, concrete and metal. Visitors can see designs by making an appointment beforehand.

How much? Dhs11,000 to Dhs90,000.
bebacreations.com

Tinkymoo

tinkymoo

If you’ve been to a pop-up market in the capital chances are you’ve spotted the colourful clutches and laptop bags from Tinkymoo. Created by Australian graphic designer/painter Suzie Curtis, the hand-painted bags are loud (expect wacky prints and neon colours painted on waterproof vinyl) and usually take around three days to complete. Curtis also sells adorable prints and artwork (see the smiling ice lollies pictured above).

How much? Anywhere from Dhs30 to Dhs350.
facebook.com/HelloTinkymoo

Vintage Finds

vintage finds

For distressed or shabby chic furniture, check out this upcycle business that restores and refinishes pre-loved and vintage wood furniture. The man behind Vintage, Palestinian craftsmen Hani Dajani, says, “When you buy from Vintage Finds, you are investing in a one-of-a-kind piece that no one else has.” Dajani also does commissions and can repaint/refresh furniture you already have in a variety of styles.

How much? Dhs300 for smaller pieces to Dhs2,500 onwards for large items such as dining tables.
facebook.com/VintagefindsAD

The Soap Bar

soap bar

Scotland native Sandie Roz Aitken makes handmade cold process soaps using natural ingredients such as goats’ milk, camel milk, neem oil and even green and white tea. “Coming from a health and safety background, I started to become interested in ingredients that were in my cosmetics and cleaning products.” What’s more, Aitken has expanded into sugar scrubs, liquid soaps, shampoos and bath bombs.

How much? Dhs20 to Dhs100
facebook.com/groups/sandiesoaps