For Emirati entrepreneur and mother of three Lamis Al Hashimi, this simple idea became the foundation of Palmade, a Dubai-based company transforming discarded date palm leaves into sustainable alternatives to single-use plastic.
Inspired by the UAE's natural resources and cultural heritage, Lamis and her husband, Yousuf Caires, began experimenting with palm leaves, exploring how agricultural waste could be transformed into something useful.
What started as a small idea at home evolved into an innovative business producing biodegradable and compostable cutlery, including forks, spoons, knives, and coffee stirrers.
Where Heritage Meets Innovation
The date palm has always been a symbol of life and heritage in the UAE. Through Palmade, Lamis is giving this iconic tree a new purpose.
By combining natural palm fibres with innovative manufacturing techniques, Palmade offers practical alternatives to conventional plastic products while supporting a more circular economy.
Today, the company's products are used across the hospitality industry, demonstrating how a locally inspired idea can contribute to a more sustainable future.
A Woman Building with Purpose
Beyond innovation, Lamis's journey is also a story of entrepreneurship, determination, and purpose.
As a mother and business founder, she represents a generation of women turning meaningful ideas into businesses that create positive change.
Her story reminds us that innovation doesn't always require inventing something entirely new. Sometimes, it begins by looking at familiar resources differently.
