Abu Dhabi: A Syrian bespoke shoe designer in Abu Dhabi is giving designer brands a run for their money.
Stilettoes, Platforms, Kitten heels, Long Boots, Ballet Flats, Nude Pumps – Saif Ahmad’s handmade ‘Golden Shoes’ are show-stoppers.
With a starting price of Dh450 per pair, Ahmad’s shoes are tailor-made to meet every conceivable demand from well-heeled customers. “I can make any kind of shoes that you want. If you want a copy of an old pair, a replica of a brand or a unique pair to match your new dress, you can have it,” said the 30-year-old Ahmad who has been making shoes since he was 12.
Ahmed says his family has been in the shoe-making business in Syria for generations. His shop Golden Shoes located on a busy street in Khalidiya behind the etisalat building, is 20 years old. “It was my uncle who first came to Abu Dhabi and set up this shop. Now I am in charge.”
Though international designer brands are readily available in the market, Ahmed says he has no competition.
“Women pay a bomb to buy these brands. But if they fancy a particular colour or design, they won’t get it in any shopping mall. But I can make it exactly the way they want,” said Ahmad.
Outrageous demands
He said sometimes he gets outrageous demands from customers. “I have made shoes with 28-inch tall platform heels. There are women who ask for a minimum of 20 to 23 inch heels.”
The most expensive shoe he has made was a long boot studded with crystals and it cost a whopping Dh10,000.
According to him, since every pair is handmade, they last longer. His workshop – a tiny room attached to his shop – is stuffed with different types of printed and plain leather, sequined satin, shoe moulds of different sizes and heels of every shape and height.
“Most of these are imported from Syria and Turkey. It takes me three days to design and complete a pair of shoes. I can deliver an order in less than a week,” said Ahmad.
He has no plans to retail his brand of shoes in the UAE or elsewhere. “I have been in the business for 20 years and I have enough customers. My shoes are exclusive and so is my service,” said Ahmad.
Ahmad can be contacted on 02-6219419
