Anetta Thomas’s Journey of Turning Dream Spaces into Reality

“Whatever you do, do it with excellence. Be known for doing a great job, not just getting by” — Indra Nooyi. 

As an Architect specialized in construction management and a certified Project Management Professional, Anetta Thomas brings over 15 years of experience in the field, she’s worked in Bahrain, India and UAE. Overseeing the design, budgeting, and execution of high-end interior fit-out projects, from premier corporate offices, automotive showrooms to fitness gyms her career has been all about delivering excellence.  

The initial decade of Anetta’s career was spent managing fit-out operations with Interspace Interiors in Abu Dhabi, where she had the opportunity to collaborate with prestigious entities including Etihad Rail, Al Futtaim, Abu Dhabi University and many more.

Currently, Anetta serves as a Client Solution Specialist with Westbrook Interiors based in Dubai as they expand operations into the Abu Dhabi region. Today, Westbrook is proudly recognized among the top design-and-build contractors listed in the Middle East Fit-out Power List 2026.

She states, “Construction is traditionally a male-dominated field, and I have always worked a tad harder to ensure our voices are valued at the boardroom table. As women, we bring a unique advantage: high emotional intelligence. This allows us to understand design requirements deeply from an end-user perspective.” Managing interior fit-out operations is a delicate balancing act of design vision and sharp commercial acumen, ensuring both contractor and client satisfaction.

Anetta comments, “Beyond my career, the UAE has been a sanctuary for my family, offering exceptional education for my child, a supportive partner, a wonderful home, and the freedom to practice our religion. My ultimate goal is to continue building spaces that reflect this country’s magnificent vision, giving back the love and respect we receive every day.

Being born and raised in the Gulf region, it is a true honour to be featured on Emirati Women’s Day. It’s a privilege to work in the UAE—a country that deeply respects and protects women’s safety and rights. The warmth and culture of the native people are woven into my life and work. 

When crafting spaces like offices, majlises, and boardrooms, the local culture comes alive through sand hues, pure metallic finishes, and a deep respect for Islamic architecture, reflecting the infinite nature of creation and the beauty of the natural world.” 

For her, there is nothing more rewarding than breathing life into a raw space and watching a shell-and-core site transform into a beautiful reality. Looking ahead, Anetta Thomas envisions leading an organisation; establishing it as a trusted name that will be hired to build a dream: balancing wellness, sustainability, and comfort.