In the vibrant fitness scene of the UAE, where gyms and wellness centers abound, a family-run business is carving out a unique niche. BeFit Fitness, established by Sudanese sisters Yasmin and Fatima Salah Hassan Wahbi, is not only dedicated to empowering women through health and fitness but also rooted in strong family values and trust.
Yasmin Wahbi, co-founder of BeFit Fitness, has always been inspired by her family, especially her father. 'My mentor is my father, Salah Hassan Wahbi. He instilled in me the values of discipline, hard work, and perseverance,' Yasmin shares. These values have been the cornerstone of her entrepreneurial journey. 'His advice to always lead by example has been pivotal in inspiring women to prioritize their health.'
Yasmin's journey began far from the fitness industry. Raised in Sudan, she initially pursued a career in IT engineering. After relocating to the UAE in 2014, she continued her IT career in the government sector while managing her family's hospital and raising her three sons. However, her passion for fitness, initially a hobby, grew increasingly significant. 'I've always loved trying different sports, and my children have been my constant source of energy and motivation,' she says.
It was in the UAE's entrepreneurial landscape that Yasmin found the opportunity to transform her passion into a business. With the support of the Sharjah government and the country's commitment to empowering women in business, Yasmin launched BeFit Fitness. 'The UAE fosters ambition and has been instrumental in helping me build my own business,' she reflects. 'This country provides opportunities for dreamers, especially women like myself.'
Joining Yasmin in this venture is her sister, Fatima Salah Hassan Wahbi, who serves as the managing partner of BeFit Fitness. Fatima, too, has a longstanding passion for fitness, having been involved in sports and coaching for nearly a decade. 'We built a solid community of clients over the years, and we were confident they would follow us to our gym,' Fatima says.
The sisters' complementary skills have been crucial to the success of their business. While Yasmin's leadership and entrepreneurial spirit drive BeFit forward, Fatima's natural ability to coach and motivate is evident in the gym's vibrant community. 'This career path was an obvious choice for me as I have a natural ability to motivate people to understand and trust my methods,' Fatima adds.
For Yasmin and Fatima, working together as sisters has its challenges, but it is built on an unshakable foundation of trust and mutual respect. 'My advice to families wanting to start a business together is to root it in trust and respect,' Yasmin says. 'I always joke that the only person who can steal from me and I'd be happy about it is my sister. That level of trust is what makes a business grow.'
Yasmin and Fatima have found a way to complement each other's strengths. 'Each family member has different strengths and weaknesses, so it's crucial to complement each other rather than compete,' Yasmin advises. 'You're working together, and by understanding and embracing those differences, you can grow and evolve as a team.'
The decision to open BeFit Fitness was a pivotal moment for the sisters, who were considering whether to invest in a new property or to start a business. 'We chose to open a gym because I saw it as a way to open more doors for us and eventually get the property we wanted through the success of the business,' Yasmin reveals. Business had always been on her mind, particularly in a country like the UAE, where entrepreneurship thrives and women receive tremendous support.
This support system has been essential in BeFit's success. Yasmin emphasizes how the UAE government has played a vital role in her entrepreneurial journey. 'I was particularly supported by the Sharjah government,' she says, reflecting on how the country's policies have empowered women to pursue their business dreams.
For the Wahbi sisters, BeFit Fitness is more than just a business — it's a family legacy built on the shared values of health, fitness, and empowerment. Their gym has become a community hub where women from diverse backgrounds can come together, improve their fitness, and boost their self-confidence and sense of well-being. 'We've created a space where women can prioritize their health without feeling judged,' Yasmin explains. 'It's a safe and supportive environment where they can focus on becoming the best versions of themselves.'
Running a family business has its unique challenges, but Yasmin and Fatima believe that the rewards far outweigh the difficulties. Their success offers valuable lessons for other families considering a similar venture. 'Running a business is a learning journey, and you'll need to be patient with one another,' Yasmin advises. 'Always be open to learning something new because every day as an entrepreneur brings fresh lessons.'
Fatima echoes these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of trust and communication. 'It's important to respect each other and communicate openly to fill any gaps,' she says. 'Be ready to listen and take advice from others, and always work towards growth.'
For Yasmin, the most significant reward has been the impact BeFit Fitness has had on the lives of their clients. 'Seeing the positive changes in the women we train is the best part of the job,' she says. 'It's not just about physical fitness — it's about helping them build confidence and realize their potential.'
Yasmin and Fatima Wahbi's journey is a testament to the power of family, trust, and perseverance. Together, they have built BeFit Fitness into a thriving business that empowers women across the UAE. As they continue to grow and inspire, their story serves as a reminder that with passion, support, and hard work, anything is possible — especially when family is at the heart of it all.
