Ali Hennaoui is a content creator, father, and modern-day storyteller who has built his social media following around authenticity and connection. He’s one half of the Dubai-based influencer duo Ali and Walaa; a couple admired for their natural chemistry and style.
For Hennaoui, fashion is far more than fabric or trends; it’s energy. “I’ve always believed that everything around us is made up of energy. My love for clothing started when I realised that style isn’t about fabric or labels, it’s about frequency. It’s how you project what’s inside you without saying a word.”
His earliest memories of style came from watching his mother pick his clothes, and later from travelling and experiencing different cultures. “It wasn’t one specific item that started it for me,” he says. “It was seeing how people express who they are through what they wear and how every look tells a story.”
When it comes to wardrobe essentials, Hennaoui’s list is short but meaningful. “My watch comes first. Every single one I own carries a story, a moment, an achievement, a memory I never want to forget. It’s not about time; it’s about what that time meant,” he explains.
His second must-have is his necklace: “It holds sentimental value. It’s from a place deeply special to me. Wherever I go, it might not be visible to others, but it’s always silently there, holding energy that stays with me.”
He also swears by a good pair of loafers. “They represent balance, structure and ease. I look at them like the foundation of a building: everything starts from the ground up.”
Hennaoui describes his style as quiet confidence, grounded and intentional. “My style is an energy that moves through every outfit I wear. It doesn’t need to speak to be noticed. It’s built to make me feel good and be in line with my character.”
While he and his wife are often referred to as the coolest couple on social media, their effortless coordination is never planned. “We rarely plan our outfits,” he laughs. “It’s more about how we feel that day. Somehow, we end up matching without trying. I guess that’s what happens when you spend every day together.”
As a father of two, Hennaoui believes that dads shouldn’t neglect themselves, and that you can still be stylish even with limited time between work and kids. “Being a dad doesn’t mean you lose yourself. Your kids learn more from what they see than what you say. So, when they see you take care of yourself, dress with intention, and show up with pride, they learn self-respect.”
His most recent fashion purchase is a pair of YSL loafers from his recent (and first) trip to Milan Fashion Week. “That trip was a milestone for Walaa and me. We decided to mark it by getting matching pairs, a reminder of how far we’ve come together. They’re not just shoes; they’re a tangible memory.”
As for trends, he’s embracing the return of ’90s menswear. “It’s full-circle for me,” he says. “I grew up watching my father dress in suits and blazers that spoke confidence and calm. To see that era return now that I’m a father myself feels like a natural evolution.”
Here he tells Esquire about his ‘3 Fits’…
FIT 1
This outfit mirrors my creative edge: it’s confident, a little unpredictable, and reminds me that fashion can be serious without taking itself too seriously. Also, my watch comes first; it’s essential when it comes to must-have accessories.
Cuadro Long-sleeve Shirt in Navy; Fernando Pants in Dark Grey, both by JACQUEMUS; Big Bang MECA-10 Frosted Carbon 42mm watch by HUBLOT
FIT 2
Suits are back. This casually elegant, elevated suit makes a strong statement, classic tailoring with a modern twist.
Checked Cotton Shirt; Wool and Mohair Jacket and Pants, all by PRADA
FIT 3
This is my go-to look for a casual winter day. It’s oversized, trendy, and effortless. It’s how I see myself on a regular day: comfortable, but always put together.
Cardigan in alpaca knit; Funnel Neck Sweater, both by AMI PARIS at VAO Concept Store; Fit Low-Top Sneakers by FENDI.
Location: @sushisambadubai @sambaroomdubai