For some, hairdressing is a profession. For others, it’s an art form that transforms lives—one haircut, one color, one smile at a time. For Azer Dimalanta, it’s both. As a 38-year-old Filipino hairdresser based in Dubai, Azer has spent more than fifteen years perfecting his craft and using it to help others see the best version of themselves.
Building a career rooted in creativity
Azer’s career began in the Philippines, where he trained under some of the country’s most respected stylists. “I’ve been a professional hairdresser for both female and male clients for more than fifteen years,” he shared. “My focus has always been on technical services such as coloring, balayage, color correction, and hair treatments.”
He spent five years at Victor Ortega Salon, where he learned the foundation of creative and precise hairstyling, before joining the prestigious Jing Monis Salon. There, he honed his mastery of advanced coloring and styling techniques during seven years of work. Those years taught him not only skill but discipline—values that became vital when he decided to take a leap of faith and move abroad.
In 2019, Azer and his wife arrived in Dubai with nothing but two pieces of luggage and big dreams. “When my wife and I first came to Dubai, we only had two luggages, just the two of us, big dreams, and high hopes,” he recalled. “Our plan was to work hard, save for a few years, and eventually go back home to the Philippines to start our own business.”
That plan, however, evolved as soon as he experienced Dubai’s dynamic salon industry firsthand. “I saw how salons and businesses in Dubai thrive and grow, and it inspired me even more,” he said. “Now, my dream has shifted—I hope to open my own salon here in Dubai one day and continue doing what I love while building something I can truly call my own.”
A passion that colors lives
When Azer talks about his work, his love for hair coloring shines through. “What I love most about my work is doing hair coloring, especially on women’s hair—it’s where I get to express my creativity as an artist,” he explained. “I come from a family of artists and creatives, so I’ve always been drawn to anything that allows me to create and transform. For me, hair is like a canvas, and every client gives me the opportunity to bring out something unique and beautiful.”
After six years at Hair Creators Salon under Hair by Salah, Azer transitioned into freelancing under his own brand, Hair_by_Azer, a move that allowed him to work independently and connect more deeply with clients. “Becoming a freelance hairdresser lets me express my creativity freely,” he said. “It also gives me the chance to form closer relationships with my clients and understand what truly makes them feel confident.”
For Azer, every successful transformation goes beyond aesthetics—it’s about empowerment. “The highlight of my career has been earning the trust of my clients and seeing the joy on their faces after every transformation,” he said. “It’s not just about changing how someone looks—it’s about helping them feel their very best.”
His clients’ happiness fuels his drive, reminding him that every strand of hair he touches carries a story. “I enjoy seeing how a simple change in color can completely lift someone’s confidence and mood,” he added. “That’s the most satisfying part of what I do—knowing that through my craft, I can make someone feel good about themselves while expressing my passion for art.”
From challenges to strength
Like many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), Azer’s start in Dubai was not easy. “When we first moved to Dubai, finding a job was a challenge,” he admitted. “Starting in a new company in a new country was especially difficult—working with a team of different nationalities pushed me out of my comfort zone.”
He vividly remembers his first day at work abroad. “I remember coming home after my first day and breaking down in tears because I hadn’t realized how hard it would be to work abroad, away from family,” he recalled. But even in those moments of doubt, his faith and his wife’s support became his anchor. “I never lost hope, trusting that God would give me strength, and I was grateful for my wife’s unwavering support.”
Over time, he adapted, learned, and grew stronger. The once-overwhelming cultural differences became opportunities to learn. “Working in Dubai is exciting because it allows me to grow professionally by learning new techniques and styles from a diverse clientele,” he shared. “I also enjoy the opportunity to experience different cultures, meet people from around the world, and expand my creativity in a dynamic environment.”
Now, six years later, Azer’s story has transformed from one of uncertainty to one of purpose. Together with his wife, he has built a stable life, one that reflects both hard work and divine guidance. “We’ve invested in two properties in the Philippines, and our next goals are to start a business here in Dubai and invest in a property locally,” he said. “While we’re abroad, we plan to rent out our Philippine properties to create a steady income.”
Looking ahead, Azer envisions a future grounded in faith and gratitude. “Ultimately, we trust in God’s blessings, stay focused on the present, and remain open to the opportunities the future brings,” he said.
To fellow kababayans dreaming of a better life abroad, Azer offers heartfelt advice: “At first, life abroad can be challenging, but always remember why you went and who you’re working for. Stay strong, and if you face setbacks, use them to grow even stronger than before. Most importantly, always rely on God—keep your faith in Him above all else, and He will guide you through every difficulty.”
Reflecting on his journey, Azer sees more than just career milestones. “Moving and working abroad has been both challenging and rewarding. It taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of faith and support from loved ones,” he said. “Every struggle, from adapting to a new work environment to being away from family, became a lesson in growth.”
Through all the transformations he’s created for others, Azer himself has experienced the greatest transformation of all—becoming a man shaped by faith, love, and perseverance. “I’ve learned that success isn’t just about career or financial gains—it’s also about trusting God, staying true to your values, and supporting those around you,” he said. “I hope my journey can inspire fellow kababayans to persevere, embrace new experiences, and remain hopeful no matter the obstacles.”
