'IT'S NOT EASY TO FIND LOVE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD'

I didn’t want to be with Mr. Big — I wanted to be Mr. Big.’ Trust the iconic Sex and the City show creator Candace Bushnell to turn television’s most complicated romance into a declaration of female power.

- By Manjusha Radhakrishnan

Two decades after her hit series became a cultural touchstone, Bushnell still isn’t chasing trends — or men.

“I’ve never used Al,” she admits with a laugh. “It can’t do originality. People are still the ones who create.” During her visit to the We Convention in Dubai, a two-day forum with women leaders, the bestselling author and pop culture provocateur sat down with Gulf News, for a candid chat about toxic love, reinvention, and why being your own Mr. Big might just be the boldest plot twist of all.

You’re in Dubai — a city where women drive Lamborghinis, wear Manolos, and still get ghosted on WhatsApp. What’s your advice to women trying to find love here?

I don’t think it’s easy to find love anywhere — in any city, at any time. But if women are driving Lamborghinis and wearing Manolos, they’re doing really well. I wish I drove a Lamborghini! I may have to move here.

Dubai is often seen as bold and fearless — much like you and your writing. How do you find the city?

I have loved my time here. Unfortunately, I’m only in Dubai for three days, so I have to come back. I’ve met so many interesting, dynamic, smart women — it’s been wonderful for me. There’s definitely an energy here that pushes you to dream big.

We're constantly told women can “have it all.” But what does that really mean to you?