By Chakradhar Reddy 
Women in the UAE and the Gulf are breaking away from daily routines and embracing the joy of travel, thanks to a unique initiative by Dubai-based expat Asma Sarwar. Her venture focuses on organizing women-only trips, offering homemakers and professionals a chance to relax, recharge, and prioritize self-care.
Born into a family with a rich background in tourism, Asma gained early exposure to the industry through her father, who owns a travel agency in India. After completing her graduation and a tourism course, she joined her father’s business. However, the pandemic disrupted operations, leaving Asma to face the dual challenges of work inactivity and navigating life as a new mother.
“It was a tough time for me,” she reflected. “I realized that many women experience similar struggles, balancing responsibilities while often neglecting their own well-being. That’s when I decided to create something meaningful—a space where women could take a break and focus on themselves.”
With this vision, Asma launched Woodpeckers Tours and Travels in the UAE, building on her father’s legacy. “I kept the same name for my agency as it feels like an extension of his establishment,” she explained.
TMEEX