Haifa Beseisso: Making Connections Around the World One Smile at a Time

Like a modern day Ibn Battuta, Beseisso travels to different countries to explore, experience and immerse herself into the essence, colour and life of each destination. She invites her followers and subscribers to “Fly With Haifa” as she documents her journeys, adventures and new acquaintances. What separates Beseisso’s adventures from the rest is her emphasis on revealing the oneness of humanity, our common hopes and dreams and that what brings us together far outweighs our differences. In each country and each city she visits, she asks the same question to people, “What is your dream?” The answers she receives are uplifting, touching and inspiring.

Born and raised in Dubai, 25-year-old adventurer explains the desire to explore the world was actually fostered in the emirate. “I got the love for being and feeling international from Dubai. It is such a diverse place. This is where I learned how to interact with people from different walks of life, and I developed a hunger to continue,” Beseisso says. The filmmaking and American University in Dubai Media graduate has roamed countries such as South Korea, Japan, the Maldives, Tanzania, Ethiopia and Turkey.

You resigned from your job and made a public announcement to commit to your dream of travelling the world. What type of feedback did you receive?
The way people reacted was honestly unexpected. I didn’t expect the video would click with so many people; it is like it hit on a hidden nerve. Apparently, a lot of people have so many hidden passions and want to do so much in their lives, but they feel stuck in a certain routine. So, it was really inspiring to see how profoundly people want excitement and it was mind blowing.

How many countries have you visited so far? Also, how do you choose the places you visit?
I have visited around 25 to 30 countries. Sometimes trips come to me, and sometimes I go to them. For example, I got a call from my friend to volunteer in Zanzibar, and I said to her, “OK, let’s go!” Sometimes I get an offer to go MC a show, event, or fashion show in another country. In addition, I’m a voiceover artist, so sometimes I get job offers abroad.

Each trip must have its own highlight or special moment, which stand out for you the most? In other words, do you have a favourite moment, encounter, or event?
My trips have had so many favourite moments, and a lot of those are when I actually sit down and have some coffee or a latte. After a crazy day that was filled with filming and activities, sitting with people and being able to look them in the eye and have a beautiful conversation over a latte, is my best part. Also, I love meeting that one epic dreamer that just blows my mind and heart away, which makes all this worthwhile.

As a designer, how much have the places you have visited impacted your fashion sense and style?
I like my designs to be full of colour, to be conversation starters. Depending on where I am travelling, the colours might vary, so sometimes before leaving I prepare some outfits that are inspired by the feel of the country. What’s more, from my travels I’ve learned to combine pieces I have collected from my trips. I’ve also noticed it is helpful to make double-sided bishts, because as a hijabi there are so many layers to wear and that can take a toll on luggage, so this helps in terms of lessening weight.