UAE: 13-Year-Old Emirati Beekeeper Wins Global Recognition

Ras Al Khaimah, UAE – Honey has been a staple at Mahra Hamad Al Naqbi’s home, but for the 13-year-old, it became more than just a table treat—it became a passion. At age 10, Mahra placed her first two beehives in her backyard, embarking on a journey that would soon take her to the international stage.

Mahra gained hands-on experience by observing hive structures, bee behavior, and honey production. Initially cautious, her parents gradually supported her ambition, attending exhibitions and assisting with equipment.

Over the years, Mahra expanded her operation steadily. By 2023, she managed 10 hives under her brand, Asal Al Mahra, selling honey on social media. By 2025, her collection had grown to 35 hives, including flower, sidr, mangrove, and samr honey. To optimize production, she rents farm spaces across the UAE for specific honey varieties, such as sidr honey, which requires winter harvesting.

Each hive contains eight frames, producing 10–12 kilograms of honey when conditions are optimal. Mahra also earned a certification in beekeeping in 2024 and began conducting training sessions for schools, foundations, and institutions. She has been recognized as a ‘Bee Ambassador’ in the UAE.

International recognition soon followed. Mahra became the youngest Emirati to win the Paris Honey Awards, and she also secured awards at the London Honey Awards and the Sheikh Mansoor bin Zayed Cultural Excellence Award.

Despite her achievements, Mahra continues her education and carefully plans her beekeeping activities around seasonal cycles. She hopes to conduct further research on bees and promote sustainable honey production.

From two hives in a backyard to global acclaim, Mahra Hamad Al Naqbi’s story is a testament to passion, dedication, and innovation in the UAE’s next generation of entrepreneurs.