In Deborah Alessi’s journey, many women entrepreneurs will recognize themselves. The Californian of Scottish descent had planned everything in her pursuit of happiness and professional fulfillment, except for the divorce from her life partner and business partner. A thunderbolt, a feeling of the end of the world. Her deeply human story is that of a woman at the crossroads of fate, where everything needs to be rebuilt. Today, at the helm of a thriving business in Dubai, the Maldives, and the United States with The Beverly Hills Wellness & Aesthetics Clinic, she shares her life lessons between solitary exercises of power, generosity, and success. A meeting with her.
When your world collapses, how do you manage to stay grounded? And what are the things you wish people had told you?
Deborah Alessi: I never intended to travel over ten thousand kilometers to Dubai and leave Beverly Hills… It was a project I had envisioned with my ex-husband. I had planned to hire a team and commute every month, so this sudden change was a complete shock to me. My advice to anyone considering this path is to make sure you really know everyone involved and judge them by their actions, not their words. Many people will promise you the world, but only a few will keep their word.
Despite my years of experience running a charitable organization (Face Forward International) and a clinic in Beverly Hills, the transition to Dubai exposed me to a whole new series of challenges. One of the toughest aspects was not having my close friends by my side to offer the love and support I desperately needed during that time. Making major decisions without their help felt insurmountable and like a real solitary exercise. However, with their support from afar and therapy, I learned how to manage my emotions and heal my wounds.
It was a slow and sometimes painful journey, but gradually, I began to let go of the anger and bitterness that had consumed me after the divorce. I found comfort in taking long walks with my dogs and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. The moments of stillness allowed me to reflect and appreciate the beauty around me. I realized that being alone didn’t have to be scary—it could be liberating and empowering. As I rebuilt my life, I discovered new passions and interests.
What were your biggest challenges in launching The Beverly Hills Wellness & Aesthetics Clinic in the United Arab Emirates?
There was the adaptation to the country’s legal system, as the contrast between Dubai’s laws and those of Beverly Hills was striking. This added to the complexity of my situation. However, the most difficult part of this journey was building a team of doctors who could meet the high standards set by my clinic in the United States. I realized that there were other establishments offering cheaper services, but I firmly believed that the expertise of the doctors and the quality of the products used made a significant difference in achieving optimal results.
Convincing a different audience on this front proved to be a constant battle. It was hard to explain to potential clients and patients that neglecting the expertise of a doctor or the quality of products would ultimately compromise the desired outcome. Overcoming these challenges required immense determination and perseverance. I had to rely on my own resilience and conviction to create a clinic that reflected the standards I had set in Beverly Hills. It was an ongoing learning process, but over time, I managed to build a team of exceptional doctors who shared my vision and understood the importance of delivering unparalleled care.
Although the journey was undoubtedly demanding, it offered me valuable opportunities for growth and self-discovery: I learned to adapt to a new environment, navigate unfamiliar laws, and defend the principles that were important to me.
Deborah Alessi: “I realized that true happiness comes from within, and I am determined never to lose sight of that again. I made a commitment to myself to turn my dreams into reality.”
Today, you are one of the most prominent entrepreneurs in Dubai. What does it take to make your mark there?
Since settling in Dubai, I’ve come to realize that networking is essential. Even with a dedicated marketing team, you need to attend numerous events and dinners to broaden your connections. It’s fascinating to see how much this city thrives on the power of networking! You must understand that Dubai is clearly a place where who you know can make or break your success. Moreover, in this fast-evolving world, social media has taken networking to a whole new level in the UAE. At first, I was skeptical about its impact…
However, I cannot deny that it presents an amazing opportunity to grow both my brand and my status. Just one post or interaction can open doors to new possibilities.
Dubai is an extraordinary place to live, full of countless opportunities. I truly believe that I wouldn’t have the same perspectives elsewhere. Despite the immense stress I sometimes experience, being able to walk alone safely at 2 a.m. is incredibly reassuring.
The Beverly Hills Wellness & Aesthetics Clinic is also established in the Maldives. What is your approach to this market?
Niyama Island was my first trip to the Maldives. There, I was blown away by the views, the spectacular landscapes, and the peaceful atmosphere. It was the birthplace of my journey toward personal development. The island resort offered a wide range of wellness experiences, including workshops, fitness classes, and personalized wellness consultations. Every moment spent there was a step toward a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. It made perfect sense to bring BHWAA to this place. We can help with jet lag, sunburns, and, of course, dehydration. The Maldives will always have a special place in my heart.
When I first set up there… everyone thought I was crazy, but it’s working out great now!
You are a woman constantly on the move. What projects are you currently working on?
I have big aspirations, driven by the determination to take the next step in my entrepreneurial journey. Right now, I have a second location in Dubai that will be opening soon, and I’m already planning a third! While I’d love to expand further in the Gulf region, I also believe this is the right time to consider bringing in an investor. However, finding the right person shouldn’t be rushed—it’s like finding a life partner, which requires time and consideration.
I am determined to create my own version of a happy future, one that truly brings joy and fulfillment to my life. Even though it’s not always easy or perfect, I’m no longer willing to settle for anything less than true happiness. I’ve made a commitment to myself to turn my dreams into reality. Life is never without challenges. Every day brings new opportunities for growth and success, and I am excited to embrace them with open arms.
In addition to pursuing my dreams, I know that love will also play an important role in my beautiful life ahead. I am open to welcoming love into my life, whether it comes in the form of a partner, friends, or family.
I believe that love has the power to enhance all aspects of life, and I can’t wait to see how it unfolds. Each passing day has allowed me to gain more confidence in myself and my abilities. I no longer feel the need for constant noise and distractions to avoid facing my thoughts. Instead, I’ve embraced silence and learned to appreciate inner calm. Looking back, I am grateful for the strength I’ve gained—it’s taught me resilience, compassion, and the power of self-love. I’ve come to understand that true happiness comes from within, and I am determined to never lose sight of that again.
