Over 10,000 residents call the DQ home. Meet Your Neighbor profiles interesting people in our international DQ Community. Learn about the diverse experience, interests, and backgrounds of DQ dwellers. Read on, and Meet Your Neighbor.
Tell us about yourself.
I am a Saudi female who had the luxury of growing up, living, and working across the world; the bulk of it was in the UK. I am a trilingual communicator with a PhD and an MSc from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
I like to think of myself as the new image of females in Saudi. The image that reflects Saudi 2030 vision: open to the world, an international mandate to welcome and share business, culture, and people experiences. I am passionate about transforming my knowledge and experiences to build capacity building and support developing Saudi.
I am currently the Advisor for Investment Development in the Ministry of Investment, bringing new initiatives in Education from around the world to Saudi Arabia; my passion is to build and improve our human capability to fulfil our vision. And to wrap up, I will use the slogan and logo I breathe and work for: Invest Saudi, “we are open for business and open to bring the world to Saudi.”
How would family and friends describe you?
My family and friends would describe me as a workaholic, friendly, and very social.
Who has been the strongest influence in your life?
The person who has a great influence in my life is Professor Val Curtis of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
What brought you to Riyadh?
My husband moved to a job here and we welcomed it to be closer to our friends and family. After spending 20 years abroad in the UK, Scotland, and Africa studying and working, I returned to Saudi four years ago to also live and experience the astonishing transformation. We love being a part of it and love the buzz.
What led you to your career and how has Saudi Arabia helped you in your career goals?
I would say that a good solid education and an exposure to the world’s experiences are the factors that made me who I am now. The government of Saudi Arabia gave me a scholarship to study abroad. A chance for education is key and all the efforts for women empowerment will put more women in leadership positions.
What are you most proud of accomplishing so far?
I am most proud of getting the environmental award with my colleagues and students for an education institute in Saudi.
Where are your favorite places to visit in Riyadh?
I love to visit the scenic Wadi Hanifah, Alamariah, and the King Abdullah Financial District.
What were your first impressions of the DQ?
I’ve lived in the DQ for two years. The first thing that caught my eyes was the beautiful architecture of the Diplomatic Quarter. I also love the environment where I can play with my dogs and go for a walk or a swim.
What is something you wish the DQ had, but currently doesn’t?
I wish the DQ has sports facilities for residents and also a community hub/club house.
Any tips/recommendations/advice for your DQ neighbors?
Please drive slow and force kids to wear helmets and lights when they are on their bikes for everyone’s safety.
