Dubai baker Maryam Al Sadiq has built a cake business while undergoing treatment for cancer, including several relapses. She started Unknown Treats after leaving her corporate job, faced repeated setbacks and eventually launched her mini Bundt cakes on delivery platforms this year. Her family and friends helped keep the dream alive through hospital stays and treatment. It's a story about finding something to look forward to, even on difficult days.

The details

For Dubai entrepreneur Maryam Al Sadiq, building a cake business has become more than a commercial ambition. It has provided purpose during years of serious illness and treatment.

Maryam had been working in the corporate sector when she began considering a different career.

Inspired by independent bakers she followed online, she decided to turn her interest in mini Bundt cakes into a business.

She resigned in October 2023 and registered Unknown Treats later that year.

The journey was interrupted by cancer and repeated treatment, including surgery and chemotherapy.

Despite periods of recovery and further relapses, Maryam continued developing recipes, packaging and plans for her bakery.

With help from family and friends, she organised pop-up events and began selling her cakes to customers.

Her first major pop-up sold out over three days.

Further illness followed, but she continued working on the business when her health allowed.

Her family helped construct a dedicated bakery kitchen in their garden, creating a production space that could function without her constant physical involvement.

By July 2026, Unknown Treats was available for regular orders through Deliveroo and Careem.

Maryam continues to undergo treatment while remaining closely involved with the business.

Her experience highlights the importance of family support, personal ambition and finding meaning beyond illness.