By Raneem Alterkawi
The DQ Living Giveaway was initiated to create a sense of togetherness, support local businesses, and shed light on the Diplomatic Quarter’s dynamic environment. It also gives our readers a chance to enjoy the best experiences that DQ has to offer.
In August, I began my summer internship with the DQ Living Magazine. In a short period of time, my aim was to create a lasting impact that would carry on beyond my internship experience. This encouraged me to launch the DQ Living Giveaway, an initiative where DQ Living creates simple contests in cooperation with businesses in the DQ. Participating businesses award prizes to giveaway winners, allowing them to discover what the DQ has to offer. This initiative has connected the DQ community and supported local businesses, especially during a time when we have all been socially disconnected by the coronavirus pandemic. It has also been an exciting way to share news of upcoming developments as well as tell the stories of existing businesses in the DQ.
The giveaway was launched in late August, and since then, we have collaborated with Four Spa, Draft Café, SPiN Rentals, and 12 Cups – all which have provided exciting gift vouchers such as complementary manicures, coffee and dessert, and free bike rides around the DQ. Many other businesses have also shown their support for this community initiative and are excited to participate in the upcoming weeks. Our followers have also shown excitement for this giveaway. Many of them described the giveaway as a “great way to get to know different businesses in the DQ” and “something to look forward to each week”.
Additionally, the giveaway has allowed us to connect with DQ businesses and learn more about them. Over the past four weeks, we learned that Four Spa is expanding its services to include facials, Draft Café is offering a new blend of Arabica coffee from nine different regions, 12 Cups is well-known for their specialty coffee beans and V60 brewing method. SPiN Rentals is the first official bike rental shop in Riyadh.
The DQ Living Giveaway has been a wonderful initiative that has united DQ residents while supporting our local community. Through it, friends have been made, stories have been told, and experiences have been created.
If you are a business in the DQ and interested in participating, please contact @DQLiving on Instagram for details. We look forward to hearing from you!
