AHMED FAREED

Flying High

Ahmed Fareed is a pilot, an influencer and, increasingly, something of a fashion icon. Fueled by his passion for the skies and a deep love of style, Fareed is a regular at Dubai’s fashion events when he’s not soaring above the clouds.

What inspired you to become a pilot and how did you get started in aviation?

My passion for aviation started when graduated from school. My father, who’s been in the aviation field for the past 40 years, has inspired me to take the aviation path. personally chose to be a pilot as do not favour routine jobs and love a challenging role.

Can you share a memorable experience or moment from one of your flights?

The most memorable experience for me as a pilot is definitely my first official flight and specifically my first landing. After my extensive studies and long training, I had finally reached my first official flight. The feeling I had flying passengers for the first time was mesmerising. felt the responsibility and importance of my role. All of this was then complimented by my first successful landing, which was a moment of affirmation for my hard work and dedication.

Given that you are a lover of music, do you tend to listen to any specific song before getting on a plane? am definitely a music lover. I definitely would say that am a classic music type of guy. Usually listen to classic, vintage Egyptian music as it calms me down, boosts my mood and keeps my mind clear and prepared for my flight.

Have you adopted any pre-take off rituals that help you stay calm before a flight?

As mentioned earlier, music is surely a key ritual that have adapted to my preflight preparation. Additionally, tend to interact and socialise with the flight crew to keep the environment friendly and stress free. This way we are all ready to serve our passengers in the best possible way.

Tell us about your experience shooting for Bulgari’s Ramadan campaign. It was a great experience, one of my favourite shoots ever, the location was magical and the team was great. It’s a pleasure working with such a brand and a lovely team, I feel proud.

How do you manage to maintain a healthy work-life balance as a pilot, given the demanding nature of your job?

I usually tend to exercise at least four times a week, depending on my schedule. It’s really challenging to find the time however, when my schedule is tight do my workouts during my layover at my destination to make sure am giving my body the necessary mobility it needs.

Can you talk about any particular challenges that you faced in your career as a pilot? How did you overcome them?

As a pilot my schedule is mostly busy as it is planned on a monthly basis. The biggest challenge as a result of this would be finding the right balance in time spent with family and friends. However, was blessed with a super understanding circle of family and friends which then allows me to be myself and brings us even closer together.

You seem to be quite involved in the fashion industry as well, how did your career form your voice in fashion? Or are they entirely separated? They are entirely separated. However, I have had an immaculate passion for fashion since I was 20 years old. It’s truly my passion, hobby and skill. Whenever I get my days off it’s always revolving around fashion events and shopping.

What has been your favourite destination to land in thus far?

I would pick the Maldives as the runway extends out into the water. As we approach the landing strip you can already see the heavenly water and the spectacular islands. Not only that, it is absolutely breathtaking and it makes me want to rush through the airport to have my free time completely spent by the water.

What advice would you give anyone who wants to pursue a career in aviation?

To begin with, I want to say that certainly recommend it to whoever has the passion for it. That being said, to pursue an aviation career you need to consider dedicating most of your time to the job, you need to be consistently fit and always up to date with various topics. I am truly grateful to have achieved such a great goal of being a pilot.