Lucky Charms opens new store in Abu Dhabi

The new Lucky Charms store in Hamed Centre, Abu Dhabi. EXPAT MEDIA/SUPPLIED

Lucky Charms, the popular specialty store known for its collection of lucky trinkets, has expanded its presence in the UAE with the opening of a new store at Hamed Centre in Abu Dhabi’s Electra area. The store, owned by Filipina entrepreneur Tess Ramirez, has quickly gained popularity among customers seeking fortune-attracting charms. Ramirez, who has spent 30 years in the UAE, told Expat Media that demand for lucky charms remains strong, particularly among Filipinos and Indians who believe in their power to bring success and prosperity. “Charms, figurines, and trinkets are our fastest-selling items,” she shared. “My clients say my products are cheaper but better quality than what they bought elsewhere.” ALSO READ: Abu Dhabi expat finds luck in trove of charms With her deep knowledge of charms and a strategic approach to business, Ramirez has turned her passion into a thriving enterprise—one that continues to attract a loyal following in Abu Dhabi and beyond. Her best-selling item? The black obsidian bracelet with Pi Yao, which is believed to attract wealth and protect against misfortune. Ramirez recalls one of her most memorable customers—a struggling beauty salon worker who bought the bracelet in hopes of better luck. “Two days later, she came back with a big smile. She had received a Dh600 tip,” Ramirez said. Beyond trinkets, Lucky Charms’ inventory includes products ranging from under Dh200 to high-end pieces, such as an all-gold Pi Yao priced at Dh6,500. “A lot of customers also come looking for charms to improve their love life. I have just the bracelet for that,” she added with a grin.

From island girl to business mogul

Ramirez’s journey from a small island in Guiuan, Eastern Samar, to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the UAE is a story of resilience and hard work. She arrived in the UAE in 1994 at just 21 years old, landing her first job as a sales agent in Sharjah. Over the years, she climbed the ranks, holding managerial roles for global brands such as G2000, Kenneth Cole, Tommy Hilfiger, and Escada. Her experience in the retail industry honed her business acumen, eventually leading her to launch Lucky Charms Closet. “I always wanted to have my own business,” she said. “I saw a market gap and decided to source quality products from trusted suppliers worldwide.” Now, Ramirez has her sights set on bigger goals. She plans to open ten more branches across Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates, expanding Lucky Charms Closet into a UAE-wide enterprise. As for her personal lucky charm, Ramirez never parts with her black obsidian bracelet with Pi Yao, which she believes has played a role in her success. “If you believe, then lucky charms will help push your luck,” she said. ICA/PIA/Expat Media