This week, we speak to Nayla Kanaan Jeha, founder of her namesake luxury consultancy company based in Dubai – NKJ Luxury Consultancy.
Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
With a sharp eye for regional relevance and luxury positioning, Jeha leads marketing and communications for Mytheresa across the Gulf, while also consulting for fine jewelry brands looking to establish and expand their footprint in Dubai.
So, to delve into her journey as an entrepreneur Emirates Woman sat down with her to see how her journey in the industry began.
What was your favourite subject at school?
History and Physical Education. I always found history fascinating — it’s so important to understand the foundations of the world. P.E. was a favorite because we worked as a team, and I was made captain of several sports. It was so much fun.
What was your first job?
My first job was incredible. It all started at Chalhoub Group, where I was given the opportunity to handle marketing for Ralph Lauren in the Middle East. Working with Chalhoub — the leading luxury group in the region, led by visionary people — while overseeing the marketing for a dream-inspiring brand like Ralph Lauren was the best experience I could’ve asked for. It was a truly special time, and the friendships I made back then are still part of my life today — and that was 20 years ago.
What brought you to Dubai?
My father, Samir Kanaan, started his law firm in Dubai almost 50 years ago and it’s still going strong, now with my brother Halim working alongside him. I was born here, so it was a natural step to return to Dubai after university to be with my family. Of course, Dubai hadn’t yet transformed into the magnificent city it is today, but it was already thriving and full of energy.
What inspired you to enter the fashion space?
I was always drawn to fashion. Growing up in Dubai, I was surrounded by the most elegant women. As a child, I used to sketch glamorous eveningwear looks and dreamed of becoming a fashion designer. In my twenties, I lived in Paris for a few months. While I was there, I bought fabric in Montmartre and learned to sew at a very trendy café at the time called the “Sweat Shop.”
Talk us through the concept.
It really depends on each brand’s needs. At the moment, I work with Mytheresa on their marketing and communications, which includes events, PR, and localized brand campaigns across the Gulf countries. Beyond that, I’ve supported several fine jewelry brands — whether by hosting them at home, helping get them into retail stores in Dubai, or developing strategies to grow their business in the region.
What are the key elements of your role?
At its core, my role is about connecting with people and bringing them together. That’s ultimately what I do — and what I love doing.
Talk us through your daily routine. The day usually starts with my kids running into my room at 6:30 AM. We share some cuddles, have breakfast, and then I check my emails. At 8am, we walk to school together. Mornings are my favorite and most productive time, so I like to schedule meetings then and seek inspiration. In the afternoon, I’m either doing market research, staying updated on the latest trends, or on calls. Sometimes I manage to squeeze in a workout, and before I know it, it’s school pick-up time. From that point, my focus shifts to spending time with my husband and kids.
What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in your footsteps?
I always knew I wanted to work in fashion and eventually work for myself. What got me to where I am today — and I’m still evolving — is a supportive network (thanks to my parents and my husband), a lot of hard work, long hours, honesty and kindness. Not everyone knows exactly what they want to do, but if you have an idea of the field you’re drawn to, start there. Say yes to opportunities, work hard, and always remember that people are at the heart of everything — whether they’re your clients or colleagues. The rest will unfold with time.
Life takes you from one place to another, to where you’re meant to be, as long as you keep showing up.
Tell us more about the brand.
Mytheresa is the leading e-commerce platform for luxury fashion and lifestyle — covering womenswear, menswear, kidswear, home (LIFE), and most recently, a stunning fine jewellery selection. But what makes it truly special are the people behind it. I’ve been fortunate to work with leaders in the industry who are genuinely capable of making dreams a reality. From their uniquely curated global events to their personalized service and treatment of clients and partners, Mytheresa really stands out in the world of e-commerce.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
It’s something my mother always tells me and my sister Caroline in Arabic: “El dineh himeh mish oowee.” It’s hard to translate exactly, but it means something like: “Life is about effort, not strength.” Whenever I’m overwhelmed or thinking, what have I gotten myself into? — I remember her words. Everything worth having in life requires effort, and you grow through challenges. Another piece of advice I heard recently that really stuck with me is: “Leap, and the net will appear.” Sometimes you just have to go for it and trust.
And the worst?
Thankfully, bad advice has always gone in one ear and out the other.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome?
Career-wise, leaving my job at Net-A-Porter during COVID was a big challenge — but it turned out to be the biggest blessing. I finally had control over my time, could spend quality time with my kids and husband, and found the courage to start something on my own — which ultimately led me to Mytheresa.
What lies ahead for the brand?
So much! Mytheresa is constantly evolving. Some of their clients have been with them since they were just a boutique in Munich.
Now, they’ve expanded into all areas of luxury — from fashion to home to fine jewelry — and are really part of people’s everyday fashionable lifestyle. Personally, I’m excited about the acquisition of YNAP. I think it’ll take the client experience to the next level and bring even more innovation to the world of luxury e-commerce.
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