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.
Two years ago, I moved to Riyadh from Colorado, USA when my husband accepted a position contributing to HRH’s incredible Vision 2030. Back in Colorado, I have enjoyed a lustrous 20-year career in luxury real estate sales. We are fortunate to have loving parents and are blessed with four children and a new granddaughter, Sawyer Rose. She just turned one year old and brings us more joy than we thought imaginable. I live an active life embracing new experiences. I love mountaineering, cooking, traveling, and spending quality time with family and friends.
How would family and friends describe you?
I think they would say talkative; I am energetic, outgoing, and independent.
Who or what have been the strongest influences in your life?
There have been many but to name one: my father. He is one of the smartest people I know, to begin. He has an incredible work ethic and made his life’s work as a very dedicated surgeon in service of others. He is a firm believer in volunteer work and giving back. He has the most kind and generous heart. He encouraged his three daughters to grow strong careers and be self-reliant. He and my mother have been married almost 55 years. Together, they are an example for the many generations of our family.
What brought you to Riyadh?
My husband, Howard Karawan, accepted a position in hospitality as CEO of one of the tourism projects in Saudi.
What are your thoughts and insights on being a resident of Saudi Arabia?
I am so grateful for the experience of living in Saudi which has changed who I am. I knew so little about Middle Eastern culture, Muslim religion, and especially Saudi Arabia. The cultural adjustment mixed with the pandemic made the first year difficult and I felt quite isolated. Despite the slow start, I have made close friends and will be forever grateful to all those that helped ease the transition. I believe people crave a sense of belonging; I am certainly one of those people. The Saudis have shown us such warm hospitality. I find the locals to be inclusive, easy to connect with, and upbeat. We have been showered with home cooked food, so many types of dates, different Arabic coffee recipes, and lifelong friendships. It saddens me the misperceptions people have of Saudi Arabia without any actual real experience of the Saudi people. I think it is remarkable how the society here is shifting and growing while staying committed to keeping their culture and customs intact.
What were your first impressions of the DQ?
First impression – we were drawn to the more relaxed feel of the DQ with the multi-cultural mix of people yet maintaining a strong Saudi vibe. The access to Wadi Hanifa, all the trees and parks make it a great place to live.
What do you like most about the DQ?
We immediately fell in love with the DQ because of its walkability and access to nature. We enjoy the trails, go to Oud Square on a regular basis, bike to the gym and grocery, and generally enjoy taking a break from being in the car.
