Our team is made up of compassionate and experienced individuals who are committed to ensuring that you receive the highest level of care and support.
We will work with you every step of the way to guide you towards a sober, happier and healthier life.
Rebecca is the founder of Sakina Rehabilitation and a passionate advocate for healing, growth, and transformation. Sober since March 2021, she brings both lived experience and entrepreneurial leadership to her work.
Originally from Australia, Rebecca moved to the UAE in 2008 and built a successful career with Emirates Leisure Retail and Meraas Holdings. In 2017, she launched her own F&B company in Dubai, continuing to grow as a business owner and entrepreneur.
Rebecca’s personal recovery journey inspired a deeper mission — to create a safe and supportive residential space for people seeking lasting change. In 2021, she began the process of establishing Sakina Rehabilitation, which became the first licensed private residential rehab centre in the UAE.
Rebecca leads Sakina with resilience, compassion, and a strong belief in life beyond alcohol and mental health struggles. Her vision is to create a healing community where recovery, dignity, and lasting change are possible.
As Program Director and Co-Founder of Sakina, Dr. Annette brings over 20 years of experience in addiction and mental healthcare. She designed and established the clinical foundation of the Sakina program, including the psychoeducation content, one-on-one therapeutic sessions, and group psychotherapy. The program is built on established addiction treatment principles and internationally recognized professional standards, ensuring a structured, supportive, and evidence-informed approach. Her work is guided by a deep commitment to compassionate, ethical, and professional care.
Dr. Gregor Kowal is a German Board-Certified Consultant in Psychiatry and Psychotherapy. He works in partnership with Sakina to provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and support for clients with mental health concerns. His collaborative approach ensures continuity of care alongside Sakina’s psychological and recovery service. Read more about Dr.Kowal here.
Krishna Priya V K is a distinguished licensed clinical psychologist. Licensed by the Dubai Health Authority and a member of the Association of Allied Health Professionals in Kerala, India, she continues to advance the field of clinical psychology through her dedicated practice, innovative research, and commitment to professional excellence. Krishna Priya remains devoted to making a meaningful difference in the lives of her clients, blending her clinical expertise with a genuine, human-centered approach to provide compassionate and effective mental health care.
Ishita Shukla specializes in facilitating personal development workshops, drawing from her deep knowledge in psychology, including Rational Emotive Behavior and Cognitive Behavioral approaches. Her workshops are designed to empower individuals by enhancing cognitive functioning, building resilience, and promoting mental well-being. Ishita provides participants with practical tools to overcome challenges and achieve personal growth in a supportive, non-clinical setting. Her approach is firmly rooted in her academic expertise, offering a strong foundation for personal development and self-improvement.
Malicah is a licensed Psychologist, Somatic EMDR practitioner and Certified Pilates Instructor.
As a mother of three, she brings both personal insight and professional expertise to her work, deeply committed to trauma healing and post-traumatic growth. She integrates a holistic, body-centered approach into her practice, drawing on her training as a certified Pilates instructor to incorporate movement and somatic awareness.
Malicah works with different modalities in sessions, tailoring her approach to the unique needs of each client and integrating them as required over multiple sessions. With deep respect for each client’s unique journey, she fosters a safe, supportive space where individuals can discover their inner resources, empowering them toward healing and growth.
Malicah is a member of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS), The Middle East and North Africa Trauma Alliance (MENATA) and the International Association of Applied Psychology (IAAP)
Sessions offered in English and Arabic.
Senior Operations and Recovery Support
Emma helps ensure the smooth running of Sakina and provides practical recovery support to guests throughout their stay. Originally from the UK, she has been based in the UAE since 2013 and brings a strong background in operations and client support.
Emma has been in recovery since October 2019 and actively follows a 12-step program to maintain her own recovery while supporting others on their journey. She has completed addiction recovery coach training and remains committed to continuing her professional development in addiction recovery and counselling.
At Sakina, Emma supports the daily operations of the centre while working closely with guests throughout their stay. She assists with guest onboarding, coordinates appointments and schedules, manages administrative processes, helping ensure residents feel supported during their time at the centre. She also works alongside guests to encourage structure, daily routines, and overall wellbeing in recovery.
Emma is also qualified in sound healing and values holistic approaches that support emotional, mental, and spiritual wellbeing. She enjoys exercise, meditation, and practices that help create balance and stability in recovery.
Melody oversees the residential environment at Sakina, helping to ensure the centre runs smoothly and remains a safe, well-maintained space for both guests and staff. With a strong background in management and organisation, she plays a key role in supporting the day-to-day functioning of the property.
Melody coordinates team schedules, facilities management, and the upkeep of the grounds and accommodation, helping maintain the calm and welcoming atmosphere that supports the recovery journey at Sakina.
Her practical approach, attention to detail, and steady presence make her an important part of the Sakina community.
Ebtesam manages the day-to-day office and administrative functions at Sakina, ensuring the centre remains organised and running smoothly. With a strong background in office management and administration, she oversees key functions including government documentation, HR coordination, accounting, invoicing, and office organisation.
Known for her professionalism, warmth, and attention to detail, Ebtesam plays an important role in keeping Sakina organised and running efficiently. Her dedication reflects Sakina’s values of compassion, trust, and care in supporting the recovery journey.
