The World’s First Emarati & Arabic Female Wildlife Photographer
Entrepreneur | Engineer | Speaker
Suaad Al Suwaidi’s journey to becoming the first Emirati and Arab female wildlife photographer is nothing short of thrilling, filled with courage, curiosity, and a deep love for nature that emerged from an unlikely beginning. Born in the UAE but raised in Louisiana from the age of two, Suaad’s childhood was anything but conventional for a future wildlife photographer. Her early years were a kaleidoscope of diverse friendships, laughter, and cultural exposure, making her feel at home wherever she went. But the twist came in her fear of animals—a fear that transformed into a passion so deep it would later take her across the world, from the grasslands of Africa to the snowy landscapes of India. Suaad’s path didn’t start with photography. Fulfilling her mother's wishes, she first pursued Engineering at the University of Pennsylvania and later ventured into architecture at the University of Massachusetts. But something tugged at her heartstrings. While walking along Philadelphia’s Schuylkill River, Suaad picked up a camera and began photographing birds—an innocent hobby that soon ignited an unstoppable fire within her.
Her talent became undeniable, and it wasn’t long before she made waves as the first Emirati woman to photograph wildlife, a title immortalized in the UAE Encyclopedia. But her true passion led her even further. After returning to Abu Dhabi and briefly working in architecture, Suaad realized she was meant for something greater. Encouraged by her mother, who had faced her own battles, Suaad left architecture behind in 2019 to become a full-time photographer. It was a bold move, but one that would open doors to global recognition.
The real adventure began when Suaad set out to document wildlife, focusing on capturing the soul of animals in their natural habitat. From regal lions in Africa to elusive snow leopards in India, she didn’t just photograph animals—she told their stories. It wasn’t easy, especially as an Emirati woman stepping into a male-dominated field, but her groundbreaking work caught the attention of the media and won her international awards.
In a 2019 encounter in an African forest, Suaad’s unique presence sparked media buzz, leading to TEDx talks and features in global outlets. Through her lens, she advocates for wildlife awareness, reminding us of the emotional depth animals carry and the importance of preserving their freedom. Her mission goes beyond capturing beauty—it's about fighting against the captivity of animals and encouraging a world where wildlife can thrive in their natural homes.
But it’s not just Suaad’s photography that inspires; it’s her journey. From a sheltered childhood to facing wild landscapes head-on, her story is a beacon for young people everywhere, showing that with passion, belief, and a lot of grit, even the wildest dreams are possible. Today, she stands tall not only as a wildlife photographer but as a motivational speaker, sharing her message of empowerment and determination with audiences worldwide.
Through her lens and her voice, Suaad Al Suwaidi continues to inspire, proving that when you dare to follow your passion, even the wildest paths lead to extraordinary places.
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suaad_al_suwaidi/
Comments