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 was born and raised in Barcelona (Spain) but since I was very young, I have been interested in international issues. When I was 16 years old, my mother asked me the big question: “What do you want to do for a living?” And with the naivety that adolescence gives you, I answered that I wanted to change the world. This is the reason why I studied Law and International Relations; to change something, you must understand it first. However, today, I continue to learn from everything around me and from all the people who are part of my life.
How would family and friends describe you?
One of my best friends always says that I am “light” and “home”; “light” because according to her I am good at finding quick solutions for tricky situations; and “home” because I always try to accommodate the needs of others and to help and support my people.
Who has been the strongest influence in your life?
I don’t think I can choose just one person. From my parents, I learned that you must have integrity and always fight for what you want in the right way. From my brother, I’ve learned how important it is to find the balance between personal and professional life, something I still struggle with today. And my friends teach me lessons every day about generosity, loyalty, and unconditional support.
What brought you to Riyadh?
In June 2022, I joined the Spanish Embassy in Riyadh as Consul.
What led you to your career and how has Saudi Arabia helped you in your career goals?
After having finished my studies in Law and International Relations, I started working in the field of International Criminal Law in Northern Ireland and the United States. Those years taught me that it is as important to know the legal rules as it is to know the people who dictate and apply them. That is why I became a diplomat.
I have always been attracted to the Arabic world, especially after studying this language for a year in Madrid. So, when the opportunity arose to come to Saudi Arabia, I did not hesitate. This country is undergoing a process of profound social change and I feel very fortunate to be able to experience it first-hand.
Where are your favorite places to visit in Riyadh?
I think I would choose Diriyah and the Bujairi Terrace. The atmosphere there is magical, especially at night and at this time of year. I’ve also really enjoyed the trips I’ve taken to the Edge of the World when friends and family have come to visit, and I can’t forget the few sunrises I’ve watched at the Red Sand.
What were your first impressions of the DQ?
Undoubtedly, its quietness. The DQ is a haven of peace in Riyadh that contrasts with the chaos of traffic and noise of the rest of the city. I was also surprised by the number of small parks, squares, and fountains that call to stroll and enjoy free time away from the office.
What is something you wish the DQ had, but currently doesn’t?
I adopted a dog last year and would love to have a reserved space to let her off leash. “May” loves our long walks around the DQ but it would be so nice to have an enclosed area where she can run, jump and play freely.
Any tips/advice for DQ neighbors?
The best way to discover all that the DQ has to offer is to walk around and get lost in its streets. There are so many cafes and restaurants that you must walk through the covered galleries and streets to discover them.
