At three, she’s already selling dresses: How UAE’s youth are learning about money

Dubai: At just three years old, Zia Amanda Treyes is already experiencing the thrill of selling her dresses at a community event in Deira. Her mother, Jhana, encourages her to create, communicate, and make decisions early in life, believing it will inspire her daughter to build a successful future for herself. For Treyes, the experience is merely about enjoying the process, but for other young entrepreneurs, early exposure to business has fostered a deeper understanding of money, responsibility, and financial independence.

Emirati entrepreneur AlDhabi AlMheiri, now 12 years old, began her entrepreneurial journey at the age of six with Rainbow Chimney, a publishing and educational business. She has learned crucial financial lessons, such as the distinction between revenue and profit, the responsibilities that come with managing a business, and the importance of reinvesting wisely. AlMheiri emphasizes that financial independence should not be pursued without purpose, and she encourages others to solve real problems and build something useful.

At 20, Gleryll Balagosa has observed her mother's journey of building businesses in the UAE. Her firsthand experiences have made her realize that financial independence is not an overnight process. Balagosa now understands that money is a tool that, when managed responsibly, can lead to growth, sustainability, and a greater impact. She also acknowledges that success should not be solely defined by financial wealth, but rather by the freedom to make choices, take responsibility, and contribute to others.

Juliana Dimayuga Guinguing, 22 years old, has been actively involved in various aspects of her family's businesses, including sales, logistics, and digital marketing. Her desire for independence has driven her to explore different opportunities, learn, and gain valuable insights into financial independence. Guinguing defines financial independence as having the freedom to make decisions without constant dependence on others and the ability to support oneself, help family members, and eventually build something truly personal.

She has learned that earning money is just one aspect of financial independence, and managing, protecting, and understanding where money goes is equally important.