Woman Boutique Owner Becomes Fashion Icon in Balad

SALAH AL-DIN — At just 28 years old, Haneen El-Sayed, known locally as “Haneen Al Masri,” has become one of the most known women in the city of Balad. With a cheerful spirit and a warm smile, she welcomes her customers into a boutique that’s become a destination for women across the area.

The shop, which she opened three years ago in the heart of Balad’s market, offers clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories from international brands. Behind its success is a personal story marked by hardship, resilience and transformation.

“My father was Egyptian. He came to Iraq in the 1980s and married my Iraqi mother in Baghdad in 1996,” Haneen told 964media. “Then he moved to Balad in 2007 for work and stayed until 2013. After that, we moved with him to Egypt, where he passed away.”

Haneen chose to return and settle in Balad with her Iraqi husband. She first supported herself by selling pastries from home, then worked in the local market. Eventually, she opened her own boutique with her husband’s support.

“It was very difficult at the beginning,” she said. “But I love working. My shop is a fashion reference point in the city. I make sure to go to Baghdad myself to shop for items that match the tastes of my clients.”

Her dedication and attention to detail have built trust and loyalty. Many women in Balad rely on her to bring the latest styles from Cairo, Beirut and beyond. Haneen says she never shops randomly — she remembers each customer’s preferences and shops with intention.

Noor Al-Rubaie, one of the employees at the boutique, praised her leadership. “Haneen really respects the staff because she used to be a worker herself,” she said. “She treats us kindly and with high morals. She never denies us time off when we have family or social obligations. She’s an example of a successful woman.”