Kareena Kewlani, a 23-year-old marketing and public relations professional based in Sharjah, is emblematic of a new generation reshaping financial perspectives in the UAE. Rather than viewing money through traditional lenses of wealth accumulation, she conceptualizes it as an instrument of freedom—providing choices, comfort, and personal autonomy.
In an exclusive interview, Kewlani elaborated on her financial philosophy, describing money as “freedom”—not in a reckless sense, but as the ability to invest in experiences, travel, and a self-directed lifestyle. Her outlook stems from a hybrid of influences: her father’s disciplined saving habits and her mother’s emphasis on valuing experiences over material possessions.
Growing up in the UAE profoundly shaped Kewlani’s financial behavior. The fast-paced, ambition-driven environment encouraged big dreams, while the high cost of living underscored the necessity of strategic planning. She emphasizes balance—intentional spending aligned with joy and purpose, coupled with consistent saving and smart investing.
Kewlani advocates for open conversations about money, regularly consulting her family and peers. Her approach integrates traditional principles with contemporary strategies like diversification and digital investment, influenced by her brother’s modern financial mindset.
Her advice to younger individuals reflects her philosophy: “Save, but don’t be scared to spend.” Kewlani stresses that financial health isn’t about deprivation, but about making mindful choices—whether investing in memorable experiences or practicing disciplined budgeting to avoid impulsive purchases.