Dubai Gets A Makeover: Celebrity Stylist Hakim Aalim Opens His First Salon Redefines Style Culture

Renowned hairstylist Aalim Hakim has officially opened his first salon in the UAE, marking a defining moment in the international expansion of his brand Hakim's Aalim. The launch event at Marina Promenade, Aurora Tower, Dubai, drew an exclusive guest list of Dubai's most influential media personalities, lifestyle creators, and industry insiders.

Aalim Hakim is a name synonymous with style, innovation, and stardom. Over the decades, he has transformed the looks of nearly 98% of Bollywood and Tollywood's biggest films, including Animal, Chaava, Jailer, Sanju, Bahubali, Kalki, Kabir Singh, War, and Saiyaara. His creative vision has helped define on-screen style for countless cinematic blockbusters, making him an integral part of Indian cinema's visual identity.

Speaking about the launch, Aalim Hakim shared, "Hakim's Aalim has always been about individuality, creativity, and connection. Dubai represents a new chapter — a global stage where beauty and style meet culture and innovation. This salon is not just about hairstyling, but about giving every client an experience that's personal, luxurious, and unforgettable."

The excitement reached a fever pitch as iconic actor Rajat Bedi graced the event as the star guest. The high-energy evening showcased not just Dubai's cosmopolitan spirit, but also a dynamic friendship and creative collaboration that spans decades. In an interview with OneArabia, Rajat and Hakim spoke about their distinctive styles and aspirations.

Rajat Bedi: The Style Icon

It's rare to meet someone as gracious and magnetic as Rajat Bedi, both on and off the screen. With camera flashes popping, Rajat was all smiles. When asked about his signature hairstyle, he replied with characteristic wit: "It's called Ha. It's Ha!" That name carries the energy of the 80s, reminiscent of the famous pompadour era and even a nod to the legendary band Aha.

Decades of Friendship: Rajat & Hakim

The connection between Rajat and celebrity hairstylist Hakim Aalim runs deep. "We go way back, even before salons were common. I'd visit his home to get my hair cut—30, 35 years ago," Rajat recalled. "Hakim's father was a legend who styled the industry's biggest stars, and Hakim inherited his magical touch. Today, everyone wants to be styled by him, whether it's for movies or shows. He transforms people and characters with his creativity."

The Making of Hakim Aalim Salon, Dubai

Hakim Aalim spoke passionately about his vision for Dubai: "This salon isn't just about style. From detailed interiors filled with art to a team trained to perfection, quality is our promise. People might visit for the décor, but they come back for the work. We've assembled a top-notch team—trained for editorial shoots, movie makeovers, and factory finishes. There's a dedicated nail art area, Korean spa, facials, and separate zones for men and women, all spanning over 3,500 square feet in one electrifying space."

A Multicultural, Artistic Approach

In keeping with Dubai's international flavor, Hakim shared, "Our team is a blend of talent from all over—Russia, Serbia, Egypt, Lebanon, and only a couple of stylists from India. We wanted creative minds from different techniques and cultures to learn and work together. That's what makes this place unique."

Inspiration and Ambition

For Hakim, hairstyling is a legacy. "My father passed away very young, but his legacy stayed with me. I was unsure as a college student whether I'd act or style, but eventually, I chose to carry forward his passion. Now, after Dubai, we're looking at launching in New Jersey and Dallas soon."

Celebrity Dreams

On his wish list? "Definitely Brad Pitt. Styling him would be an amazing creative challenge."

What's Next

While Rajat Bedi keeps upcoming projects under wraps, salon patrons can expect world-class styling, cutting-edge treatments, and a space that celebrates Dubai's glittering eclectic energy. As Hakim Aalim sees it, "We're here to bring out the best in everyone, no matter where they're from."

Beyond the silver screen, Aalim has worked with almost every major name in Indian entertainment. His roster of clients includes Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Sanjay Dutt, Shahid Kapoor, Ranbir Kapoor, Shahrukh Khan, Ajay Devgn, Ranveer Singh, Varun Dhawan, Vicky Kaushal, Arjun Kapoor, Abhishek Bachchan, Allu Arjun, Rajinikanth, Junior NTR, Prabhas, Ram Charan, Mahesh Babu, Ahaan Panday, Bobby Deol, Sunny Deol, Vivek Oberoi, Ritiesh Deshmukh and more.

His expertise also extends to the world of sports. Aalim has styled the entire Indian cricket team, working with legends and contemporary icons alike — from Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to Yuvraj Singh, Sachin Tendulkar, Shreyas Iyer, SuryaKumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Ishan Kishan, and Yuzvendra Chahal, among many others.

The Dubai salon encapsulates the brand's signature fusion of bohemian artistry and modern luxury, with interiors designed to create a warm, inviting space where sophistication meets self-expression. The new space offers a complete range of services including precision cuts, advanced colour treatments, transformative styling, and grooming, all delivered by a team personally trained under Aalim's direction.

The debut of Hakim's Aalim in Dubai marks the beginning of the brand's global expansion journey — taking its legacy of craftsmanship, creativity, and celebrity-grade expertise beyond India to the heart of the Middle East.