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.
Can you tell us about yourself?
I’m from Mexico. I studied International Business but my real passion is creating women’s accessories. I really enjoyed visiting the jewelry markets in Mexico. When I was 13 years old, I started working with jewelry design. I often find inspiration from all the women I meet from around the world. I describe my style as “eclectic.” I like to tailor my handmade jewelry pieces to be unique to make my customers feel special. You can see all my work on my Instagram account: fabiolaariasjewelry. When I’m not working, I love spend quality time with my family. I love going back home to Mexico and while I’m there, I spend all my time with my parents, brothers and friends.
How would you describe yourself?
I would describe myself as reliable, loyal, friendly and creative. I think I’m friendly because I have made many great friends from different countries around the world. Friendship is very important to me, and I always try to be there for my friends when they need me because their trust is very valuable to me.
What were your first impressions of the DQ?
I’ve lived in the Diplomatic Quarter since I moved to Saudi Arabia one year ago. We moved because of changes in my husband’s career. Before this, we lived in Bahrain for 3 years. I remember the first day I arrived to the DQ very clearly: I was really impressed with the greenery in the area and with its cleanliness. I remember seeing people riding bikes and enjoying the great neighborhood. To me, the Diplomatic Quarter is the coolest place to live in Saudi Arabia.
What’s your typical day like?
I’m generally up at 6:00 AM to start preparing my daughter for school. After that, I will usually start cooking. I spend a lot of my time during the day taking care of our household chores. When the weather is nice, I like to go for a walk in the DQ parks. I usually work on designing and creating my jewelry and accessories in the evenings. Whenever I get any time off, I spend it with my daughters.
After an entire year here, what are your thoughts on the DQ?
I love going for walks in the parks and trails around the DQ. I also enjoy having coffee in the plaza. I really wish we had some boutiques and open markets in the area where locals and artisans can showcase their work. I think that would be a great addition to this wonderful place.
And, what are your thoughts on Riyadh?
It’s amazing to be here during such interesting times of change. I think the most exciting changes in the Kingdom have been seeing women drive and the opening of cinemas. I really loved visiting The Edge of the World, it’s such an amazing place in the desert. I’d say it’s a must see for anyone who comes to the Kingdom.
Lastly, is there anything you’d like to say to your DQ neighbors?
Enjoy the parks, the trails and the coffee spots. For anyone living in the DQ, I’d suggest following the DQ residents group on Facebook. It’s such a great community and there’s always somebody in the group who can help you.
