Photo: Zach Dilgard/Bravo
The businesswoman, entrepreneur and mother to three will not be returning to the franchise’s second season, PEOPLE can confirm, which will begin filming in the upcoming months.
Born in Lebanon and raised in Texas, Ali moved to Dubai with her husband in 2011 and has grown into one of the city’s most recognizable faces thanks to herstring of successful companiesincluding her popularfruit cakes.
She was known on the show not only for her elegance and class, but for also giving viewers a peek into the world of the Dubai elite, having lived in the Burj Khalifa — the largest building in the world.
“It was an honor to be a part of the debut season ofThe Real Housewives of Dubai, and to help Bravo bring this beloved franchise to the city I call home,” Ali, 44, said in a statement. “I’m grateful to the network,Andy Cohen, and the team at Truly Original for welcoming me into this extended family and for embracing the diversity of riches Dubai has to offer.”
“2023 has already brought many exciting opportunities my way — including an emerging new business, new home and new adventures — so for now moving my attention away from the show will allow myself the space to focus on new challenges,” she added.
Nina Ali.Santiago Felipe/Getty Images
Ali then sent love to fellow Dubai HousewivesChanel Ayan,Caroline Brooks,Dr. Sara Al Madani,Lesa MilanandCaroline Stanbury.
“I wish my fellow Housewives all the best moving forward,” she said. “I’ll be cheering you on!”
The seriespremieredin June 2021, making a mark among fans for the cast’s captivating personalities and delicious drama.
Chris Haston/Bravo
In October, the Dubai Housewives united in New York City forBravoCon, where they noted during their panel that they wereready to get started on season 2, which at the time hadn’t been announced.
“We’re hopeful. If it happens, it’s going to be amazing,” Stanbury said while Ayan added, “Thereisa season 2! You have to put it out in the universe!”
At the time, Ali also expressed interest in seeing the series score a second season. “If and when there’s a season 2, we’re all ready,” she said. “I’m manifesting it! For all of us!”
Chanel Ayan, Lesa Milan, and Nina Ali at BravoCon2022.Eugene Gologursky/Bravo via Getty Images
News of Ali’s departure comes one day after veteran HousewifeLisa Rinnaconfirmedher exitfromThe Real Housewives of Beverly Hillsto PEOPLE. The actress had been a part of the series for eight seasons.
“This is the longest job I have held in my 35 year career and I am grateful to everyone at Bravo and all those involved in the series,” Rinna, 59, said in a statement shared with PEOPLE. “It has been a fun eight-year run and I am excited for what is to come!”
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Season 1 ofThe Real Housewives of Dubaican be streamed in full on Peacock.
source: people.com
