Until 2016, Amélie Hua, who was born and raised in France, worked in private equity while also pursuing a few entrepreneurship projects on the side. Then, inspired by the success of US indoor cycling phenomenon SoulCycle, she decided to move to Dubai and set up the Emirates’ first standalone indoor cycling studio. 

She set up MOTION – a high-intensity workout incorporating the mind, body and soul – where you ride to the music in a candlelit room. It was an instant hit with women and men alike in Dubai, and a few years later, a MOTION studio arrived in Abu Dhabi. Pop-up events, sports brand collaborations and accolades have followed for the brand. 

“MOTION became more than a workout – it became a strong community of people who want to empower each other,” explains Hua, who is of French-Cambodian heritage. “To keep this community engaged, we are organising a lot of talks and workshops, events that include sound healing and meditation, and I personally also give talks about my experience in entrepreneurship with MOTION, but also with other projects. It has been such a crazy journey with so many ups and downs, especially at the start, that I really like to share.” 

“The UAE is extremely supportive of women,” Hua adds. “There are a lot of initiatives, awards and communities empowering female business owners. So, as a woman, you can quickly build a strong, helpful network. It’s also a country where you feel safe and respected, and that is for sure also a big help. It’s easier to build a business in a city where you feel comfortable.”

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