A mental health podcast by Emirati therapist Dr. Latifa Al Mazrouei is taking the UAE by storm. Her show, which focuses on mindfulness, anxiety, and emotional wellbeing, is now trending on Spotify MENA’s top charts. In a region where discussions around mental health are only recently becoming more open, Dr. Latifa’s podcast has struck a deep chord with listeners of all ages.
Mindful Minutes with Dr. Latifa
The podcast, titled Mindful Minutes with Dr. Latifa, offers short, thoughtful episodes on everything from social anxiety to daily stress management. With her calm voice and relatable approach, Dr. Latifa creates a safe space for her audience to explore emotions and mental health challenges without judgement. The result? Thousands of weekly listeners and a growing fanbase across the UAE and beyond.
The Story Behind Dr. Latifa Al Mazrouei
Dr. Latifa Al Mazrouei is a licensed clinical psychologist based in the UAE. She’s been working in the field for over a decade, helping people manage mental health concerns like anxiety, depression, and trauma. Her podcast is an extension of the work she’s been doing in therapy rooms — only now, she’s reaching people who may never have considered talking to a therapist.
“In the region, many people still feel uncomfortable going to therapy,” Dr. Latifa shared in one of her recent episodes. “That’s why I created this podcast. I wanted to offer people a safe and private way to learn about their emotions, to feel understood, and to know they’re not alone.”
Growing Popularity Among UAE Listeners
The show’s popularity is no surprise. With daily stress, fast-paced work culture, and increasing social pressures, more and more people in the UAE are searching for ways to cope. Young adults especially — from university students to early-career professionals — say the podcast has become a regular part of their self-care routine.
“I listen every morning on my way to work,” says Noor, a 27-year-old marketing executive in Dubai. “Her episodes are short, calming, and always help me feel more grounded. It’s like a little therapy session in my car.”
A Relatable and Practical Approach
Each episode runs for about 15 to 20 minutes and often includes breathing exercises, tips on emotional regulation, and real-life examples. Dr. Latifa also shares personal stories and client case studies (with permission and anonymity) to help make mental health topics easier to understand.
One of the most listened-to episodes is about social anxiety — a subject that many in the region deal with but rarely talk about. Dr. Latifa breaks down the signs of social anxiety, explains how it shows up in daily life, and shares easy techniques to handle it. Listeners say the episode made them feel seen for the first time.
Another fan-favourite is an episode on setting boundaries. Many listeners say it helped them rethink their relationships, whether with friends, family, or colleagues. “For the first time, I felt okay saying no to things that stressed me out,” says Samira, a university student in Sharjah.
Reaching Across All Audiences
It’s not just women tuning in, either. Men across the UAE are listening and engaging with the podcast too — something Dr. Latifa says she’s proud of. “Mental health affects everyone. I’m happy to see more men reaching out and taking time to care for their wellbeing,” she said in a Q&A episode.
What makes Dr. Latifa’s show unique is its mix of professional knowledge and a friendly tone. She doesn’t talk down to her audience. Instead, she explains complex mental health ideas in plain language, often using humour and warmth. The result is a show that feels both professional and personal — something many listeners say they didn’t know they needed.
A New Era of Mental Health Awareness in the UAE
The podcast’s success also reflects a wider shift happening in the UAE. More public figures, influencers, and professionals are speaking out about mental health. Schools are including wellness lessons, and workplaces are offering mental health days. Dr. Latifa’s podcast is riding the wave — and also helping drive it forward.
As more people open up about their emotions, the demand for accessible, trustworthy mental health content is growing. That’s where podcasts like Mindful Minutes with Dr. Latifa come in. They’re easy to listen to, private, and available anytime. For many, it’s a first step toward therapy — or at least, toward better self-understanding.
Recognition from Spotify MENA
Spotify MENA has even highlighted the podcast in its health and wellness category, noting its rise in both local and regional rankings. It now sits among the top five health-related podcasts in the UAE — a major milestone for a show that started just under a year ago.
Dr. Latifa says the feedback has been overwhelming in the best way. “Every message I get from a listener reminds me why I started this. People say they feel less alone. That’s all I ever wanted — to make someone’s day a little lighter.”
What’s Next for Dr. Latifa’s Podcast?
She’s now planning to launch a second season, with deeper dives into topics like burnout, digital detoxing, and childhood trauma. There are also plans to bring guest speakers — including other therapists, coaches, and people with lived experiences — to make the show even more engaging and inclusive.
For those new to the podcast, Dr. Latifa suggests starting with any topic that feels relevant. “You don’t have to go in order. Just pick something that speaks to you — whether it’s stress, loneliness, or confidence. There’s something for everyone.”
Dr. Latifa’s Simple Advice for Mental Health
Her advice to those struggling with mental health is simple but powerful: “Start small. Breathe. Talk to someone. And remember, healing is not a straight line.”
A Bright Future for Mental Health in the UAE
As the podcast continues to grow, it’s clear that Dr. Latifa has struck a nerve in the best way. Her voice is not just calming — it’s becoming a guiding light for many navigating the ups and downs of daily life in the modern UAE.
If this trend is any sign, mental health awareness in the UAE is moving in a positive direction. And Dr. Latifa Al Mazrouei is helping lead the way — one mindful minute at a time.
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