The role of the Wives of the Ambassadors in Saudi Arabia cannot be underestimated. They are the ones who see and foresee many other aspects and details of diplomatic relationships and can be the voice of the society in which they live. Often, they are in the layers of the diplomatic field. Therefore, it is only beneficial to develop a genuine dialogue with them to get acquainted with their perspective, which can be most valuable.
Here, I would like to make another important observation, which is directly related to their diverse backgrounds. Each of them comes from a distinct cultural and political background, yet the Kingdom becomes the cementing ground for them to become the mosaic of humanity.
I was fascinated to develop a discussion with the Wives of Heads of Mission. The experience has helped me to better understand the world through the eyes of the wives of the Ambassadors.
Hermine Maryam Tidjani, Cameroon
What makes DQ and Saudi Arabia special?
Saudi Arabia is home to two major holy sites of Islam and currently plays an important role in the global economy. DQ is home to the most representatives of foreign missions in the Kingdom. It is a safe place with essential social and commercial infrastructure, allowing for better connection and intercultural communication, leading to engaging initiatives and activities.
How does the DQ connect people?
One of the connecting elements of DQ is the DQ Living Magazine. Through comprehensive and engaging interviews and articles, we learn and communicate with each other. At the same time, the DQ area is spacious and engaging enough to live and interact with people living and visiting DQ.
It is believed that the best way to experience the world is through food. What is your favorite place to dine in the DQ? Favorite Saudi dish?
My favorite Saudi dish is lamb kabsa. My favorite place to dine is ENCORE restaurant.
Saudi destinations that are still on your travel bucket list.
Al Fanateer Beach.
Arabic coffee or tea? Why?
Arabic coffee! For centuries, drinking Arabic coffee has been a common social habit and continues to be a part of Saudi culture. I believe this is a tradition that connects people in a very memorable and authentic way.
What is your best memory of the DQ so far?
Diplomatic receptions that allowed us to make new acquaintances, connect, cooperate, and ultimately create lifelong bonds outside of our homes.
Ulrike Lamlé, Germany
What makes DQ and Saudi Arabia special?
The DQ as a very remote place, pleasant and comfortable as almost all embassies are located in one place. On the other hand, at times, I feel separated from real Saudi life. To discover authentic Saudi Arabia, I often step out of the DQ and explore the Saudi texture and spirit that I believe makes this country special.
How does the DQ connect people?
The diversity of cultures and celebrations connects people in the DQ. National days, movie nights, and exhibitions allow us to meet, interact, and network. In the run-up to the World Cup, the German Embassy plans to organize entertaining events to watch football and connect people through sports.
It is believed that the best way to experience the world is through food. What is your favorite place to dine in the DQ? Favorite Saudi dish?
Given the climate of the Kingdom, there is not much activity in downtown Riyadh during the daytime, so a cup of coffee in Oud Square is a great way to meet people and have a good time.
Saudi destinations that are still on your travel bucket list.
I want to go everywhere. I want to drive throughout the Kingdom to feel the landscapes of the different regions and cities such as Abha or Tabouk.
Arabic coffee or tea? Why?
I am passionate tea-drinker. However, what I love about Arabic coffee is the refreshing flavor of cardamom. Moreover, the coffee is always served with dates, very genuine and authentic tradition.
What is your best memory of the DQ so far?
Gatherings of peoples from different countries, a very nice and important concept that connects us.
Reiko Iwai, Japan
What makes DQ and Saudi Arabia special?
I think good security and meticulously thought residential areas make DQ and Saudi Arabia special.
How does the DQ connect people?
People come to DQ to enjoy the beautiful gardens, well-maintained trails, great service, and amenities. In addition, DQ is a unique socializing place where people can gather for parties and make friends with foreigners.
It is believed that the best way to experience the world is through food. What is your favorite place to dine in the DQ? Favorite Saudi dish?
I like Scalini restaurant. I sometimes go to La Rustica Terraza, Kalamata, and Cafe Bateel.
Saudi destinations that are still on your bucket list.
I want to visit Al-Ula, Abha, Taif, and Jazan.
Arabic coffee or tea? Why?
I usually drink Japanese green tea. I love drinking Saudi coffee when I visit a Saudi family. I think both are good for health.
What is your best memory of the DQ so far?
I enjoy life at DQ, which allows me to meet new people from different walks of life. I also appreciate the abundance of restaurants with many types of international cuisine, which stimulate more engagements and exciting discussions.
Botagoz Arynova, Kazakhstan
What makes DQ and Saudi Arabia special?
Saudi Arabia is a holy land for the Muslim people, in addition to many distinctive and beautiful places for everyone, such as Al-Ula. DQ differs from the rest of the country, with an abundance of greenery, parks, squares for walking, jogging, and leisure.
How does the DQ connect people?
There are quite a few activities at DQ, from group outings to entertainment for kids. There are also many cafes and restaurants where the wives of ambassadors and community members gather and hold meetings and events.
It is believed that the best way to experience the world is through food. What is your favorite place to dine in the DQ? Favorite Saudi dish?
The WHOM meetings take place in different restaurants, each special in its own way. My favorite Saudi dish is kabsa.
Saudi destinations that are still on your travel bucket list.
Neom and Northern region, Abha, and Jazan.
Arabic coffee or tea? Why?
Arabic coffee! It has a unique taste, and in combination with dates, it becomes magical.
What is your best memory of the DQ so far?
Walks in the parks, lunches in the restaurants, and of course the diplomatic corps located in DQ.
Rose Oginga, Kenya
What makes DQ and Saudi Arabia special?
The very concept of DQ is special and unique. This strategically thought out and developed territory unites Saudi Arabia and the whole world in one place. Hence, walking around DQ is a simple yet great experience to discover the diversity of the world.
How does the DQ connect people?
Embassies in DQ, events, restaurants, and celebrations, and through such events, foreigners and Saudis meet and exchange experiences, hence the connection.
It is believed that the best way to experience the world is through food. What is your favorite place to dine in the DQ? Favorite Saudi dish?
There are many unique and tasty dishes in Saudi Arabia, and desserts are always on top for me. However, it will not be easy to choose just one dish. What I would like to emphasize is that the most exciting thing about Saudi Arabia is that there is so much food here that no one sleeps hungry, even though it is a desert. Particularly in DQ, I love to dine at the Scalini restaurant.
Saudi destinations that are still on your bucket list.
Neom, Dammam, Al-Ula, Asir region. I would also like to get more experience in the desert.
Arabic coffee or tea? Why?
Definitely Saudi tea because it is very relaxing and soothing, especially in the evenings. There are so many varieties of flavors that we are spoiled for choice.
What is your best memory of the DQ so far?
I would say that DQ is memory itself, a mini-model of the United Nations, where representatives of the most diverse cultures and peoples of the world live, work and communicate harmoniously.
Nazgulia Maripova, Kyrgyzstan
What makes DQ and Saudi Arabia special?
Saudi Arabia is unique in being the birthplace of Islam. In the last days of Ramadan, I visited Mecca and Medina with my family, and we were deeply impressed by their greatness. As for DQ, I can say that this is an amazing part of the city with a mild climate, beautiful parks, mosques, cafes and restaurants, hotels and cultural squares.
How does the DQ connect people?
DQ hosts many official and cultural events and receptions that bring together representatives of various diplomatic missions and political, economic and cultural circles, thereby promoting international and intercultural dialogue and partnership.
It is believed that the best way to experience the world is through food. What is your favorite place to dine in the DQ? Favorite Saudi dish?
Since we arrived only three months ago, we have visited only a few restaurants. However, the last one I liked the most was Najd Village, with a captivating traditional design that offers a delicious classic set of Saudi dishes such as kabsa, hashi, hot bread, and sweets with Arabic coffee or tea.
Saudi destinations that are still on your travel bucket list.
Jeddah and King Fahd’s Fountain, Rub’ Al Khali desert adventure, Al-Ahsa oasis.
Arabic coffee or tea? Why?
Arabic coffee, with its unforgettable aroma served with dates, is a unique ritual.
What is your best memory of the DQ so far?
Since we arrived at DQ, there have been many pleasant memories. However, I would separate the receptions, and each time the events seem to be more grandiose, colorful and impressive.
Gloria Hloniphile Rubushe, South Africa
What makes DQ and Saudi Arabia special?
In my answer, I would not separate Saudi Arabia and DQ. Thus, they accommodate various religions and cultures in such a small but livable area as DQ. I see DQ as a small town of its own, with restaurants, a supermarket, and countless parks, which are essential for a comfortable and cozy lifestyle.
How does the DQ connect people?
The first and most important feature of DQ is the concept of connecting people from different walks of life in a special way, hosting most of the embassies and diplomats. This creates a large international community bound by the vision and mission of advancing diplomacy in all areas.
It is believed that the best way to experience the world is through food. What is your favorite place to dine in the DQ? Favorite Saudi dish?
My favorite places to dine in the DQ are Cafe Bateel and Marriott. My favorite Saudi dish is kabsa.
Saudi destinations that are still on your travel bucket list.
Jazan and Abha are still on my bucket list.
Arabic coffee or tea? Why?
Definitely Arabic coffee, owing to its aroma, which keeps me active, motivated, and energized throughout the day.
What is your best memory of the DQ so far?
I will always miss the early morning walks in DQ and the feeling of absolute safety.
Hsiuyi Shen (Candice), Taiwan
What makes DQ and Saudi Arabia special?
My husband grew up in Jeddah. Therefore, being posted to Saudi Arabia was like returning home. The hospitality and friendship I received from Saudis made the Kingdom incredibly special to me. As for DQ, I want to say that I enjoy spending time in this community, where I met many good friends.
How does the DQ connect people?
DQ is a one-of-a-kind place that brings together people from all over the world. During the lockdown, we adopted a Saluki, and every time we walk with him on the tracks, we meet a lot of friendly people who greet us. This is how people get connected in the DQ very naturally and innately.
It is believed that the best way to experience the world is through food. What is your favorite place to dine in the DQ? Favorite Saudi dish?
It is hard to name only one place in the DQ. However, one of my beloved places is Bateel, the remarkable Saudi brand. My favorite Saudi dish is jaresh, an authentic homemade meal perfectly combined with the western oat, and the traditional Saudi yogurt.
Saudi destinations that are still on your travel bucket list.
Abha, Jazan, Farasan island.
Arabic coffee or tea? Why?
Qahwa for sure! Each family has its own recipe for Arabic coffee, which is served only in 1/3 cups to extend communication with guests. What a smart way to entertain guests!
What is your best memory of the DQ so far?
The farmer’s market is one of the best memories of DQ, which shows the diligent people who work for their motherland.
Nguyen Thi Bich Van. Vietnam
What makes DQ and Saudi Arabia special?
Saudi Arabia and the Middle East are mysterious to me. I want to explore the Kingdom and learn more about its rich culture. The DQ itself seems to be a very interesting place to explore. I have never seen anything similar to the DQ in any other country I lived in before. I will take my time to visit the restaurants, coffee shops, and the parks.
How does the DQ connect people?
I do not live in the DQ, but I can imagine that the design of the DQ as a special quarter already helps connect people from different countries. DQ allows newcomers to feel less “foreigners” in a new country, promotes mutual support, and establishes ties between neighbors who share much in common.
It is believed that the best way to experience the world is through food. What is your favorite place to dine in the DQ? Favorite Saudi dish?
It is still too early for me to pick a favorite place. My favorite Saudi dishes are hummus and kabsa.
Saudi destinations that are still on your travel bucket list.
Jeddah, Medina, Dammam, and more! I still have the whole list untouched!
Arabic coffee or tea? Why?
Tea. I am a tea person.
What is your best memory of the DQ so far?
My first diplomatic event was the Iftar, organized by the Royal Commission of Riyadh City in the DQ. Everything was new to me and I did not want to go. However, when we arrived, there was nothing as I was worried. We had a great time, and I met my new friends. This is my best memory so far.
