Ahlam bint Ali bin Hazeem Al Shamsi, known professionally as Ahlam, is a celebrated Emirati singer and one of the most prominent artistic figures in the Arab world. Born in Abu Dhabi to an Emirati father, the folk singer Ali Al Shamsi, and a Bahraini mother, she was raised in Bahrain. Her artistic journey began in the mid-1990s, with the release of her debut album "Ahbak Moot" in 1995, which achieved significant success and established her as a star. The legendary Arab artist Mohammed Abdo bestowed upon her the title "Fananat Al-Khaleej" (The Artist of the Gulf), a moniker that has defined her leading status in Khaleeji music ever since. Over a career spanning more than two decades, Ahlam has released 14 albums and numerous hit singles, including "Goul Anni Ma Tegoul" and "La Tesadgonah". She is renowned for her powerful voice, commanding stage presence, and outspoken personality. Her influence extends beyond music, as she has served as a judge on major talent shows, including MBC's "Arab Idol" for several seasons starting in 2011, "The Voice: Ahla Sawt", and "Saudi Idol". These roles have further solidified her popularity and impact on the regional arts scene. Ahlam is married to Qatari rally champion Mubarak Al-Hajiri, with whom she has three children.

Ahlam was crowned the "Queen of Arab Art" at the Doha Song Festival in 2003, an honor that solidified her high artistic status in the Gulf region and the broader Arab world. This title has since become synonymous with her identity, reflecting the immense respect she commands from both critics and the public for her successful career. Ahlam is a trailblazer for Khaleeji artists on the global stage. She was the first female Gulf singer to perform at the prestigious Carthage International Festival in Tunisia and the Jerash Festival in Jordan. Her international performances include shows at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, where she was honored with "The Golden Disc", as well as venues in France and the UK, playing a significant role in introducing Khaleeji music to a global audience. Achieving widespread success as a television personality, Ahlam became a household name as a judge on the most-watched talent shows in the Arab world, notably "Arab Idol" and "The Voice". Through these platforms, she not only showcased her deep musical expertise but also became an influential media figure, contributing to the discovery and mentorship of new young talents across the region.

She studied Islamic Sharia but did not complete her studies in order to pursue a career in music.