Vol. 5 Iss. 4 DQ Living: Travel Local

VOLUME 5 ISSUE 4 JULY-AUGUST 2021

Travel LOCAL

INSPIRING INDONESIA

WHAT’S NEW IN THE DQ

DQ DINING DIRECTORY

Welcome to the travel issue of DQ Living! Come with us as we let you in on an incredible journey inside our pages.

Travel to the Eastern Province where one beacon of change stands tall – Ithra – an iconic skyscraper in Dhahran’s skyline.

Dip in the pristine turquoise blue waters of Umluj, take a trip down memory lane in the historic old town of Al-Balad in Jeddah, pick luscious strawberries in the farms of Riyadh, and literally stop and smell the roses at the Garden of Hejaz, Taif.

In the international scene, our featured country is Indonesia, a country in the heart of Eastern Asia that’s a wonderland for culinary, culture, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Back in the Diplomatic Quarter, tour around the world through various cuisines! Browse our updated DQ restaurant and café directory for new dining experiences. A few kilometers away from the DQ, world-renowned chef David Burke has opened a new branch of his restaurant and we have the scoop on it.

Our latest issue is packed with information and tips on traveling, and traveling safely. As this is an unprecedented time, with great travel comes great responsibility. Let’s continue adhering to COVID-19 precautions and guidelines while we enjoy visiting places.

May this issue bring you excitement in planning your travel adventures. See you in our next; we still have a lot in store for 2021!

Publisher Fayez Aldosari

Project Coordinator Maria Cometti

Marketing Coordinator Alyaa Malik

Editorial Assistant Laurine Gayle Vales

Editors Naureen Ahmed Ali Al Saad Hind Al Saad

Yana Murash Distributed by Reina Tejano Berina Janelle Vales Yasay

Columnists

Alexander Woodman The Pink Tarha

Advertise with us!

Printed by Ready to deliver your message to Star Printing the DQ Community?

Contributors

Seham Almubarak Aevan Caro Fariha Eshrat Arlen Gargagliano

Facebook: facebook.com/dqliving ▪ Twitter: @dqliving ▪ Instagram: @dqliving Website: www.dqliving.com

The concept, style, and design of this publication remain the exclusive property of Sharakah Media and are not to be reproduced in any form whatsoever without prior written permission. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication.

However, Sharakah Media can not accept any legal responsibility for any error or omission.

Views expressed in this magazine are by writers and are not necessarily those of the publisher of DQ Living.

Sharakah Media | PO Box 9468 | Al Safarat Riyadh, 11614 | www.dqliving.com | projects@sharakahmedia.com

DQ Living offers select sponsorship and advertising opportunities.

Inquire today at projects@sharakahmedia.com!

Contents 06 COVER | Travel Local

42 SHOP | On The Go

24 GO | Inspiring Indonesia

46 EAT | David Burke Opens At The Zone

ON THE COVER: The crystal clear waters of Umluj, the “Maldives of Saudi Arabia”, is postcard-pretty and IG-worthy.

32 LIVE | DUR Al Wadi Residential Compound

49 FEATURE | From Our Home To Yours

40 FEATURE | Return to Riyadh

52 FIND | DQ Restaurants and Cafe Directory

Contributors SEHAM ALMUBARAK is the CEO of Takleem. She is a poet and has a strong passion toward spreading out the Arabic language worldwide as well as driving new approaches for making the Arabic language easier to learn. Seham established Takleem in 2019 to help people achieve their Arabic learning goals.

Food writer, textbook, and cookbook author ARLEN GARGAGLIANO spent three years working in Saudi Arabia in the realm of education. Her most recent book, The Musician’s Career Guide, was co-authored with Grammy-award winner Ulysses Owens, Jr and published by Allworth Press, in June, 2021. She frequently posts her observations as well as cooking photos on her Instagram account (@arlengargagliano).

Spending more than half of his life in the Kingdom, AEVAN CARO is a Jeddah-raised turned Riyadh-based Filipino who continues to explore the beauty of Saudi Arabia. A journalism graduate with a great passion for music, he listens to his favorite tracks prior to writing to propel his thoughts and ideas.

YANA MURASH is a lifestyle & fashion contributor based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. She is also working internationally as a Creative Fashion Event Planner and PR Expert in the fashion industry of the Middle East and Europe. She has a wide experience in high fashion shopping and styling across the GCC countries.

FARIHA ESHRAT is a medical doctor with an interest in writing, media and PR. Fariha enjoys covering health topics and is currently a junior faculty at Alfaisal University. She has been an editorial and marketing team contributor at DQ Living since 2017.

ALEXANDER WOODMAN believes that Saudi Arabia has a lot to offer to the world and that the beauty of the country resides in it uncharted territories. His research interest is in global health, international health policy development, transnational and trans-cultural health politics, as well as diplomacy. He is the author of "The Land of Adat".

WHAT'S NEW

IN THE DQ

Watch this space for the latest announcements and promotions in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter.

Submit your updates! Email projects@sharakahmedia.com

RIYADH COMBAT CLUB focuses on effective martial arts from Brazilian jiujitsu, boxing, Muay Thai, and kickboxing. They also have a Riyadh Combat Ladies Section. They offer free trials and also offer membership packages like 3 months + 3 months free, 6 months + 6 months free, and 1 year + 1 year free. Promo is until the end of August.

MR. NOBLE FRANKLIN COKER is the new Steward of the Diplomatic Quarter. He wants to invite everyone to join him on a journey of discovery to learn about this incredibly unique place. It’s a place of rich heritage and it has a story that he can’t wait to learn! Please follow him on his social media accounts @dqsteward as he shares his journey of learning about the people and the stories of the DQ with the world.

YOGi is the destination for simple, seasonal, fresh, and healthy food that is affordable and accessible. Their menu is constantly evolving by testing and tasting the latest healthy food trends. They offer salads, sandwiches, power bowls, smoothies, smoothie bowls, brew, and fresh juices.

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Address: Building 76, Al Kindy Plaza Contact Number: +966552562111 Website: https://www.riyadhcombat.com/ Email: Dq@riyadhcombatclub.com / Riyadhcombatclub@gmail.com Operating hours: 4:00 PM till 10:00 PM from Saturday to Thursday Instagram: @ry.combat / @riyadhcombat (Riyadh Combat Ladies Section) Snapchat: ry.combat

ARTAL INTERNATIONAL PREPARATORY SCHOOL is all set to open its doors to new kindergarten students at their Diplomatic Quarter campus! At Artal, the focus is on their students. They help them along their journey of discovery by facilitating and nurturing their development. Artal is now accepting children ages 1-5 at their DQ campus. Register now for AY 2021/2022.

WhatsApp: +966508307830 Social Media: @artalschools Website: www.artalschools.edu.sa

Address: Al Kindy Plaza, Diplomatic Quarter (Across from Kudu) Contact Number: +966547674187 (For delivery inside DQ only) Email Address: HEllO@yogi.com.sa Operating Hours: 11:30 AM – 11:30 PM Instagram: @yogi.sa DQ LIVING MAGAZINE JULY-AUGUST 2021

COVER

TRAVEL LOCAL Discover unforgettable and unique places in Saudi Arabia.

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UMLUJ

Crystal Clear Waters of the West Coast REINA TEJANO BERINA

Pristine turquoise blue waters may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Saudi Arabia. Known for its vast desert lands, the country is not exactly a beach destination. But that may change once you discover Umluj.

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he western region of Saudi Arabia enjoys the coastal shores of the Red Sea, which includes Umluj - over 400 kilometers away from Tabuk, its home state. From the Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Airport, you need to travel by land to reach the governorate of Umluj and find a suitable hotel for your stay there. Unfortunately, the majority of their hotels are not yet available on booking sites for advanced reservations. The option to go for a packaged tour with a licensed tour agency such as Alsarh Travel. In this case, it’s a do-it-yourself itinerary.

the day starting at 6:00 AM but some visitors (like us) don’t mind getting a tan and we started at 9:00 AM. The prices for boats vary depending on the season, number of people, and/or type of boat preferred (yachts are available too).

For our trip, it cost 300 SAR per hour for a basic boat and six passengers. Food, water, and towels were not included, so we made sure we packed our own. It’s also important to note that the Saudi Border Patrol supervises the dock, hence all registrations of visitors will require a valid iqama before sailing off.

The main attraction of Umluj is its “Maldives-like” waters that can only be accessed by hiring a boat at the Boat Rental Docking Station to bring us to that sweet swimming spot. It is best to schedule your visit in the earlier hours of

Our journey by boat lasted for about 30 minutes before we could finally spot the crystal clear waters that we have been imagining since our trip started. The sun was making it sparkle from afar and its turquoise blue color was en-

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chanting to the eye. It was a sight to behold and we took a moment to grasp that this amazingly beautiful place was indeed, in Saudi Arabia.

ers forayed a little more towards the deeper parts of the sea. Nonetheless, the parked boats made the perimeter of safety known to the tourists.

The boat anchors in the usual swimming spot for tourists and we are all set to experience the water. Around us, other boats were parked from a distance and from what we could see, men and women could wear anything they wanted in this part of the sea. The boatman reminded us that we had about two hours of swim time before leaving us to our own devices.

Once we’ve relished enough of the waters and taken a lot of pictures and videos documenting our awesome find of a beach in Saudi Arabia, the boatman called up his passengers to prepare our return. The usual timeframe for the boat rental is three hours (travel time included). When asked if we can actually visit one of the islands, he said that it was prohibited. Although after reading on the Visit Saudi website, a licensed tour operator called Shamal offers exclusive island hopping access.

As we submerged ourselves underwater, the cool waters became a reprieve from the hot summer weather and we could feel the fine white sand beneath our feet. While there was no marine life in our swimming area, basking in the waters was very relaxing and if you closed your eyes and floated around, time seemed to stop still. Other groups from a distance were playing some water sports while oth-

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Back in Umluj, the town is still under development and there are limited options for tourist spots such as the old town and the lava fields. However, those serene blue waters are truly mesmerizing that I wouldn’t mind seeing it all over again.

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ROSE FARMS Pink, Fragrant, and Mystical Blossoms of Taif JANELLE VALES YASAY

Saudi Arabia has been a place to work for most of us. However, the Kingdom also has places where we can experience the beauty and calmness of nature.

In the Garden of Hejaz, we can literally stop and smell the roses.

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t has been a dream to see Taif, the “city of roses” during spring. Taif, a city and a governorate in the Makkah Province in Saudi Arabia, is located at an elevation of 1,879 meters in the slopes of the Hejaz Mountains. The Hejaz range, running north and south along the eastern coast of the Red Sea, is a part of the mainly rocky Sarawat Mountains. This prime position gives Taif a cool and dreamy weather, making it one of the best summer destinations in the Kingdom.

Some royalties call this city their home when the weather in the Central region gets too warm. Mountain resorts dot the raised valley.

the flowers near Makkah. Another legend speaks of India as the cradle of the oil-rich flowers.

Taif is an agricultural town known for its farms cultivating pomegranates, figs, grapes, and honey. And also for growing the main reason why we visited Taif during springtime this year: roses. Particularly the 30-petal Damask roses which are more delicate and intensely-perfumed compared to traditional roses. The origins of Taif’s roses are clouded in mystery; however, it is said to have been brought by traders from the Balkans and Turkey who wanted to grow

It’s my first time visiting a rose farm last April and it was quite a precious experience. The cool and fresh air welcomed us as we entered; all the greens a contrast to the urban jungle of Riyadh where we came from. Trees of apricots welcomed us, their small, green fruits within our reach. The roses were already harvested before sunrise to preserve their fragrance. The handpicked roses were piled in baskets under a tree where we could touch and smell

With over 900 rose farms in Taif that produce more than 300 million flowers every spring, the “city of roses” is a sight to behold during harvest season. The rose season in Taif starts in the valley of Wadi Mahram where the roses blossom first, then in the higher area of Al Hada, and finally, in the Al Shafa mountains. Some rose farms open their land to visitors and tourists to see and smell the flowers in the morning.

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them. The petals are so dainty and of the softest pinks: all we wanted to do is lie down on a bed of roses, literally, and bathe in their glorious, robust, and intoxicating aroma.

On another tour, we were brought to a rose factory where farmers with their sacks of roses arrived to have the flowers weighed in antique scales and sold. The decades-old factories then use traditional methods, sometimes recently modernized, to distill thousands of petals and turn them into rosewater or rose oil. The process has been done for ages and while the factories have expanded throughout the years and the cost of roses have gone up, the quality of these waters and oils is still unparalleled. Various luxurious perfume houses and brands use Taif’s rose oils in their

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products making roses an essential piece of Taif’s economy and culture.

Our next goal is to see Taif’s Rose Festival which is celebrated in one of the city’s famed parks. The Al Rudaf Park celebrates the city’s most iconic product with exhibitions and presentations of songs and dances. A flower carpet that spreads over 700 square meters and uses 100,000 flowers is the highlight of the festival.

Enjoying the Taif Rose Season is a must for all. It was very relaxing to see the “iconic jewel of the Garden of Hejaz”. So the next time you stop and smell the roses, make sure you are in Taif.

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AL-BALAD Vibrant History in the Heart of Jeddah YANA MURASH

Jeddah, fondly called “The Bride of the Red Sea,” is one of the largest cities and great travel destinations in the country. It’s a mix of history and modernism. When you visit, be sure to add to your itinerary the city’s historic old town. Discovering Jeddah involves discovering Al-Balad.

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l-Balad is the historical area of Jeddah, and it can be translated as "The Town”. It was founded in the 7th century. In 2014, Al-Balad was accepted to be added to UNESCO's World Heritage list.

The active vibrant life in Al-Balad begins after 5:00 PM, when the sun goes down and Arabian fairy tales come back to the tiny streets of the multi-storied mud brick and stone buildings. Mixing with the local people who are still living there brings this area to life. These days, you can see some Western tourists in the town’s cafes and vibrant market-

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place. The market offers to visitors everything - from textiles to sparkling silver and gold ornaments to spices and honey. There are hundreds of small shops along the narrow alleys filled with everything from watches and clothes to incense and antiques. Be prepared to haggle for a fair price.

You may even have to pretend to leave before you and the seller agree.

If you’re visiting Al-Balad in the morning hours, the streets are mostly empty and spacious. There is often a slight wind from the west, coming from Jeddah’s Red Sea coast. This is

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the best time to see the historical building architecture of the Old Town.

600 protected buildings which cannot be taken down, at least not according to the law.

The architectural style is characterized by the imposing tower houses decorated by large wooden window enclosures and shades built in the late 19th century by the city’s mercantile elites, and also characterized by lower coral stone houses, mosques, souqs, and small public squares that together compose a very active space. The older buildings have elaborate hand-carved wooden shutters and balconies. Some are painted bright green or blue, others are naturally brown. Some of the buildings have risen to more than 30 meters. Their construction is still in good condition after decades.

In another part of Al-Balad where the once walled-in city opened up via the northern gate Bab Jadid, residents have to put up wooden sofas near the street. This is a majlis where people gather in the evenings.

Jeddah Old City is a home for 500-year-old buildings that are now subject to restoration as Saudi Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman pledged an amount of $13.3 million to restore 56 buildings. The restoration project will be implemented by the Ministry of Culture. The aim of the project is to boost the artistic culture in Saudi Arabia. Al Balad has

Many buildings in Old Jeddah are now being propped up, renovated, and cleaned. The change is gradual, however, the effort to date is rewarding. This is very much a location worth visiting while in Jeddah. The feeling here is of living history and visually different from other cities in Saudi Arabia.

Hisham Binjabi is one of the most celebrated Saudi artists who opened an art gallery in the historic district of AlBalad. A chance encounter at the age of 14 catapulted him to be the artist of kings and royals. After which, he painted for several notable subjects and patrons including King Faisal, King Khalid, and King Abdullah.

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strawberry farms The Hidden Edible Gems of Riyadh AEVAN CARO

There's nothing more exciting than picking fresh, plump, red strawberries and enjoying them afterwards. You can eat them plain, dip in chocolate, add on salads, put in pies and muffins, turn into jam or a refreshing smoothie. With these amazing things you can do with one of nature's sweetest treats, who wouldn't be enamored of the flavor that it brings?

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ince travelling has become a luxury for many nowadays, here’s a quick solution to experience the cool weather and the joy of fruit picking in Riyadh province. Let’s go strawberry picking! Yes, in Riyadh!

In the outskirts of Riyadh, there are two popular strawberry farms which have become favorite weekend destinations of families and friends – the Hanging Strawberry Garden and the Strawberry Lake.

The Hanging Strawberry Garden is located in a small town in the northern part of Riyadh called Al Amaria. With a distance of around 30 kilometers from the Diplomatic Quarter (DQ), travelling by car will take about 30 to 40 minutes going there.

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Everyone can enter the Hanging Strawberry Garden. It neither requires any appointment nor an entrance fee.

Visitors are greeted by the staff handing out plastic containers for those who would like to pick strawberries. Each pack costs SR 30 and the freedom of filling those containers is all yours. They provide scissors to avoid pulling the fruits. Hanging Strawberry Garden is open from Tuesdays to Saturdays from 6 A.M. to sunset.

If you’re into quite a longer road trip, Strawberry Lake is for you.

The road to this strawberry farm leads to the direction of Al Kharj. Strawberry Lake is about 60 kilometers away from the DQ which may take around 45-50 minutes by car

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and it requires a SR 10 entrance fee for adults and SR 5 for children.

Apart from strawberries, the Strawberry Lake, from its name, has a man-made lake in the middle of the area with a few ducks and geese, a traditional tent, a fish farm, a bird house, and a grassy lawn.

As you enter the greenhouse, the aromatic scent of their vertically-stacked strawberry shrubs begins to irresistibly captivate every visitor’s senses. The sweet scent of strawberries brought us to a special place that blocked out the sand and dust of the desert.

Picking strawberries in the Strawberry Lake is SR 20 per container and for proper care of the plants, a pair of scissors will be provided as well. Strawberry Lake is open every day from 4:00 P.M. to 01:00 A.M.

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Growing strawberries in a place like Riyadh became doable through exhaust fans and a system called evaporative cooling which eliminates excess heat and add humidity inside the greenhouse.

Both strawberry farms are well-ventilated to provide an optimal growing environment to ensure the quality of their produce.

In selecting strawberries, go for those that look plump and firm with bright red colors and sweet-scented aroma to guarantee that you are choosing the freshest and juiciest ones.

These strawberry farms are not forever because they’re seasonal but for now, enjoy these red, plump, juicy fruits from Riyadh’s newest and popular destinations.

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ITHRA

New Experiences and Infinite Possibilities in Dhahran JANELLE VALES YASAY

With Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 comes changes and one beacon of change stands tall in the Eastern Province: Ithra, a venue for transformative experiences that unlock the power of potential through mastery of arts, sciences, literature, and innovation. Dhahran’s skyline has finally gotten its own iconic skyscraper.

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audi Arabia’s Eastern Province is composed mainly of the triumvirate cities of Dammam, Alkhobar, and Dhahran. Other cities like Jubail and Ras Ta Nura complete the Kingdom’s center of industry founded on a very important commodity: oil. But more than oil, Dhahran’s newest attraction is cultivating a different source of energy: human energy.

The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, also popularly known as Ithra, is a project by Saudi Aramco that started in May 2008. Ten years later, Ithra opened in 2018.

A collection of “stones” has risen from the sands of Dhahran and has become a tower representing Saudi Arabia: the underground for its past, the ground floor for its present, and the tower for its future. Norwegian architectural firm, Snohetta, spearheaded the impressive design. Guid-

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ed by the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards, Ithra is one excellent and sustainable building admired by the world.

It can be quite intimidating to visit Ithra at first but it’s a must-see and so we drove to the area where the famous building was and found our way to one of its entrances.

We spent a few minutes gawking at the building from the outside; we could have lasted longer if not for the Eastern Province’s very hot and very humid temperature. We sought shelter in Ithra’s well-insulated, fireproof, and soundproof space and found ourselves in its modern lobby.

Ithra features a lot of impressive areas including the 18-floor Ithra Tower, three-floor Idea Lab, exhibit floors, museums, 315-seat cinema, 900-seat theater, and our fa-

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vorite, the four-floor library, one of the largest public libraries in the region. It is a bright, wide space that houses over 270,000 books in various themes and topics, in both Arabic and English. The Ithra Library doesn’t only carry printed books but also a wide array of electronic materials like audio books and e-books. If only we could spend more time there!

There are sofas and seats conducive for reading, and a café to enjoy some drinks while at it.

The Ithra Museum will keep guests busy. It has four galleries dedicated to art, artworks, and artifacts: Funoon (Middle Eastern art), Ajyaal (Saudi art), Kunooz (Islamic art) and Rehlaat (Arabian Peninsula natural history). The museum has exhibits and rare collections that will enrich the knowledge of guests. It also holds the “Source” of Light”, a 90-foot high masterpiece by Italian master Guiseppe Penone is considered as Ithra’s spiritual heart representing the site where commercial oil was first discovered.

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Ithra has something for everyone: the Ithra Children’s Museum is the first museum in the Kingdom for children up to the age of 12. There are plenty of activities, classes, and workshops to help unleash creativity and widen imagination. The museum has areas on science, environment, and Islamic art. Ithra also has the Idea Lab and Energy Exhibit.

When we were there, we saw Terra, an exhibit by international artists focused on sustainability. Each section, from the Rainbow Cave to the Water Diorama, was a unique experience for the senses. It was an awesome and informative art display that encourages guests to help save the environment.

Ithra is a must-see place when visiting the Eastern Province.

It lives up to the meaning of its name: enrichment.

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TO THE EAST COAST WE GO

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trip to the Eastern Province is not complete without a trip to the beach. Its waters draw crowds of all ages, and its location - just 4 hours from Riyadh - makes it an idyllic weekend trip for locals and expats. There are a lot of luxurious and unique resorts in the very popular Half Moon Bay area but if you’re looking for one that is far from the hustle and bustle of city life or the bay, HDB Alkhobar Resort and Spa is one good option.

HDB Alkhobar Resort and Spa is one of the newest go-to resorts in the East Coast of Saudi Arabia. It’s a sight to behold with its newly-renovated beachfront accommodations that look like a utopian society with its perfect and almost similar gray concrete chalets and villas. The shimmering heat haze welcomed us when we arrived in our one-bedroom villa, a few feet away from the shore. Our villa has ample amenities: a seating area, a flat-screen tv, and a bathroom. Each villa comes with a terrace and a garden or ocean view, depending

on the location. Some villas also have their own pool. Room service is available 24/7.

One of HDB Resort’s pride is its private beach area where guests can sunbathe in the sand and frolic in the warm water. Guests are welcome to wear proper beachwear and you can find yourself hours out in the water, either swimming, paddling, or jet skiing. The sandy shore is fine and clean and kids can make sandcastles or run around. If not for Alkhobar’s very humid weather during the time of our trip, we would have found ourselves on the beach every day of our stay. The resort has a restaurant for food options (their Alfredo is delicious!) and there are small food trucks by the shore that sell drinks (much-needed when under the sun).

We enjoyed our 3-day stay in the resort.

HDB Alkhobar Resort and Spa is a welcome addition to the bustling resort community in the Eastern Province.

HDB Alkhobar Resort and Spa Al Khobar 34777, Saudi Arabia Website: hdbhotels.com Phone No.: +966509707003

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ALSARH

The Best in Business Travel, and More Saudi Arabia’s best travel agency is now in the Diplomatic Quarter! Traveling is made easier and more accessible with Alsarh Travel’s newest branch.

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lsarh Travel has been a major player in the travel industry since its establishment in 1977 in Saudi Arabia. For over 40 years in the travel market, Alsarh’s passion and commitment to provide comprehensive experiences and easier, more cost-effective packages have set them apart in the constantly changing travel landscape. Its unique combination of travel buying and travel management experience has made them the travel agency of choice for years.

Alsarh Travel has the largest showroom in the Middle East.

This is located in the intersection of King Abdullah Road and Takhasussi Road in the Saudi Arabia’s capital city of Riyadh.

Recently, Alsarh opened a new office in the heart of the Diplomatic Quarter. The travel agency is divided into three sections to focus on the travel needs and requirements of the various sectors of the society. The Business Management Solutions section caters to organizations, corporations, and businesses, while the Individual Services section welcomes walk-ins or phone inquiries to meet all requests of the DQ community. The Hiyyak online platform, on the other hand, provides an easy high-tech booking process and customer care for the internet-savvy clientele.

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Alsarh’s new Business Management Solutions section in AlFazari Square serves all entities inside and outside the DQ, from for-profit and nonprofit organizations to government and diplomatic authorities. It provides dedicated resources that can offer comprehensive multiplicity of business travel management to logistics solutions.

Alsarh BMS works with clients for different projects such as business trips and training programs. With every project, Alsarh provides various services from preparing budgets, providing project managers, coordinators, and translators, setting up call, command, and control centers, allocating crews, booking domestic and international flights and hotel reservations, creating smart itineraries, renting buildings for short- or long-term periods, catering meals and coordinating banquets and gala dinners for guests, helping in procuring all types of visas for travelers to the Kingdom, and more. All you have to do is sit back and relax and let Alsarh do everything for you.

Alsarh’s success is continuously driven by its relentless approach in challenging the norm and creating and reshaping travel policies. Corporates and businesses can highly bene-

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fit from its in-depth knowledge and understanding of business trips and projects as well as expenses management, especially for those who are seeking better quality with reasonable budget. Alsarh believes in delivering the right results therefore immersing in details to ensure the success of projects. Travel consultants evaluate business trip programs, provide practical solutions, and identify areas of improvements to reduce cost.

Over 30 professionals with wide experiences in business trips, projects, and logistics services work at the Alsarh DQ office. They take pride in their “hands-on” approach to each project with their extensive understanding of travel operations, processes, and customer service. Their experiences in corporate travel management and travel agency operations enable Alsarh to deliver workable recommendations.

Consultants can be divided into mini teams and can move between cities in Saudi Arabia when the need arises.

All services provided to entities are also provided to individuals who want to travel in and around Saudi Arabia. Information can be obtained by visiting the DQ office or by calling 011-251-0000.

The website, www.hiyyak.com, is the largest digital platform in Saudi Arabia for tourism, leisure, cultural, entertainment, and sports packages. It offers unique tour experiences and customized packages that include accommodation, transportation, and activities for individuals, couples, or groups in Saudi Arabia’s most scenic and beautiful places such as AlUla, Soudah, the Red Sea, and more. Discover Saudi Arabia through Alsarh!

Alsarh Travel Al Fazari Square, Diplomatic Quarter Business Management Solutions Phone No.: 011-4944333 Email: bms@alsarh.com.sa Individual Services No.: 011-2510000 Hiyyak Platform Services: Email: info@hiyyak.com Phone No. 011-8103838

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Inspiring

INDONESIA FARIHA ESHRAT

In the heart of Eastern Asia lies a country of rich historical tapestry, diverse cultural influences, and scenic landscapes. A must-visit destination for all travel enthusiasts, Indonesia is a wonderland for culinary, culture, and nature enthusiasts alike.

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ndonesia, home to the second largest tropical forest in the world, over 170 active and dormant volcanoes, and more than 17, 000 islands with pristine beaches, is filled with adventures. The country is popular among nature enthusiasts for its great dive sites, surfing waves, and hiking trails. Indonesia also has diverse wildlife, including the famous Komodo Dragon. The largest living lizard in the world and closest to dinosaurs, these ferocious dragons attract thrillseekers to Komodo National Park all year round. The Park spans four islands, encompassing lush rainforests, pink sandy beaches, and coral reefs. While the Borneo rainforest, which is home to wild orangutans, will attract wildlife lovers and explorers. One of the best ways to see these species is to rent a Klotok boat, take it down the Sekonyer River and visit the Camp Leakey Orangutan rehabilitation reserve in Tanjung Puting National Park.

Indonesia is home to 20% of the world’s coral reefs and is a busy destination for those interested in scuba diving and snorkeling. With many opportunities available for beginners and experienced divers, liveaboard trips allow tourists to explore everything from the reefs to the many shipwrecks off Indonesia’s shores.

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Indonesian cuisine is very diverse and assorted. It varies from popular chicken satay and nasi goreng (Indonesian fried rice) to gudeg – a dish made from boiled young jackfruit, served with rice, sambal sauce, and chicken. One of the well-known dishes is pisang goreng – deep-fried bananas drizzled with chocolate or other toppings. The country is one of the top six producers of bananas in the world and is also one of the largest coffee producers. The famous Kopi Luwak, a coffee bean that was once predigested by civet cats, is a popular product among tourists.

Indonesia hosts many breathtaking temples and monuments with a rich cultural tapestry and historical landmarks dating back to the 9th century. Thus, Borobudur, in Java, is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. It consists of over 2,000 relief panels and over 500 Buddha statues. Watching the sunrise from the temple is a popular activity on many travelers’ bucket lists.

Bilateral relations with Saudi Arabia Around the 13th century, with the spread of Islam in Indonesia, numerous Muslim traders and ulamas arrived in the

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Indonesian archipelago from the Arab world. Since the early 20th century, Indonesian Muslims have started to perform the hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.

In 1950, official diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Indonesia were established. Currently, Indonesia, being the fourth most populous country globally, is the largest Muslim-majority country with the largest number of hajj pilgrims. This makes Saudi-Indonesian bilateral ties even more significant with a long history of diplomatic and economic cooperation.

Diplomatic and political ties between the two countries are constantly strengthened through state visits. In 1955, a state visit was made by the Indonesian President Sukarno to Saudi Arabia. While King Faisal visited Indonesia in

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1970. In the 21st century, President Joko Widodo visited Saudi Arabia in 2015, 2017, 2019. King Salman visited Jakarta, Bogor, and Bali in 2017.

In 2016, Indonesia's trade with Saudi Arabia was estimated at $4.06 billion. In the same year, Saudi Arabia became Indonesia's largest export destination in the Middle East, worth $1.33 billion, while Indonesia's imports from Saudi Arabia totaled $2.73 billion. Saudi Arabia’s main exports to Indonesia include oil and gas products while Indonesia mainly exports plywood, textiles, apparel, palm oil, paper, and tires. In 2013, there were almost 2,000 Saudi students in Indonesia. The Kingdom has built over 150 mosques, and

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established a free university in Jakarta that educates 3,500 students each year.

On January 25th, 2014, Saudi Arabia and Indonesia signed their first defense cooperation agreement (DCA). The agreement was signed by Saudi Deputy Defense Minister Prince Salman bin Sultan Abdulaziz Al Saud and Indonesian Lt. Gen. (ret.) Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin. The DCA covers training, education, counter-terrorism, and defense industry cooperation.

The Saudi-Indonesian collaboration has been expanded and boosted during Joko Widodo’s administration. In 2015, the President was awarded with Order of Abdulaziz Al Saud by Saudi authority. In March 2017, Al Saud Royal family members were invited to visit Indonesia and spend a long vacation in Bali.

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In February 2019, when King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud embarked on a month-long trip to Asia, Saudi Arabia committed to greater economic engagement with Southeast Asian nations, including Brunei, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

In this light, Saudi investments in Indonesia represent an alternative source of funds to stimulate economic growth.

During the King's recent visit, the two governments signed a series of agreements. The most notable agreement was signed between the state oil companies of the two countries, Pertamina and Saudi Aramco, to create a $6 billion joint venture for oil refining in Cilacap in Central Java. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia pledged to provide $1 billion for the economic development of Indonesia. The Saudi interest in the potential of Indonesia presents a much-needed opportunity for both countries to diversify their economies.

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Where To Go As Indonesia's most popular vacation spot, Bali is an island with breathtaking beaches: tourist favorite Kuta, tranquil Nusa Dua, and Sanur filled with water activities.

Pura Tanah Lot is one of Bali's most popular temples located in the southern coast of Beraban village. Built on a rock formation in the sea, the original formation began to deteriorate at one point, and a portion of the rock is now artificial. After the sunset, stroll through the stalls at Tanah Lot Market for unique Balinese souvenirs.

While Bali and Lombok are tried and true holiday destinations for a good reason, the lesser-known Banda Islands have their appeal as an off-the-beaten-path getaway. Called "Eastern Indonesia's best kept secret," the Bandas hold untold thrills for divers and sailors.

The Gili Islands in Lombok offer beaches that are as fascinating as Bali with diving, kayaking, and even snorkeling opportunities in a turtle sanctuary.

Such incredibly lush and invigorating are the terraces of the Jatiluwih Rice Fields, listed as a UNESCO Cultural Landscape as part of Bali's Subak System. No visit to Bali is complete without seeing these rich acres.

What To Do Visit the Temple of Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, a serene space where visitors can feel the ancient majesty of the island. Many long-tailed macaques are living at this Hindu temple, a species of monkey commonly seen throughout Southeast Asia.

Hike to the peak of Mount Bromo, one of the best-known volcanoes of Indonesia, a country that sits in the Pacific Ring of Fire. Mount Bromo is among the best-known destinations, thanks to its incredible views, particularly when seen standing over the caldera at sunrise.

Snorkel through coral reefs at Raja Ampat. The fairyland of lush, cone-shaped islands set against blue and turquoise waters is one of Indonesia's most spectacular sights. The coral reefs are some of the most biodiverse on the planet, making it a popular area for diving.

Explore the wildlife at Borneo! One of the most ecologically diverse places on earth, Borneo is home to orangutans, exotic birds, Sumatran rhinos, pygmy elephants, and an array of other creatures. In Kalimantan, tourists can travel down the Kapuas River, the longest in Indonesia; visit villages of the indigenous Dayak people; and observe foreign influences from China, Malaysia, and even Europe in the ports and cities along the way.

Discover Lake Toba, a body of water and a supervolcano. The lake, which sits in a volcano crater, was formed between 69,000 and 77,000 years ago and is believed to have originated from a catastrophic eruption. Go swimming, water skiing, canoeing, or fishing, or stick to wandering the surrounding area on foot or bike.

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Interview with the Ambassador

Agus Maftuh Abegebriel Embassy of Indonesia ALEXANDER WOODMAN In 1950, Saudi Arabia and Indonesia established diplomatic relations. How would you define the development of diplomatic ties over the decades of collaboration?

On May 1st, 1950, diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia officially started with opening the Indonesian Representative in Jeddah. In 1964, the Indonesian government changed the Representative status to the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia. In 1985, the Indonesian government moved its embassy from Jeddah to Riyadh. At the same time, it was decided to retain the Consulate General in Jeddah, aimed at strengthening economic and socio-cultural ties and cooperation in Jeddah as a commercial hub and economic gateway for Saudi Arabia.

On November 21st, 1947, along with other seven countries of the Arab League, Saudi Arabia was one of the first countries to recognize the independence of Indonesia, proclaimed on August 17th, 1945. Currently, cooperation between the two countries is developing successfully, both at the bilateral level and in international forums, including the United Nations (UN), G20, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), and Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).

Formal relationships are also reinforced by people-to-people ties between Saudis and Indonesians, which began much earlier than official diplomacy in 1947. Many Indonesians have visited Mecca and Medina to perform pilgrimages and study Islam. Thus, bilateral ties between the two countries were and continue to be more than just diplomatic relations.

This is a brotherly relationship that has long been supported

by Islamic solidarity.

In the past few years, the bilateral relationship between Saudi Arabia and Indonesia has reached its golden age considering that King Salman (2017) and Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman postponed his planned visit to Indonesia, on February 2019. In turn, the President of the Republic of Indonesia, Joko Widodo, has also made several visits to Saudi Arabia in 2015, 2017, and 2019.

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Saudi Arabia is a founding member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), while Indonesia is the founding member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). How do you envision multilateral partnership of these organizations? What accomplishments would you emphasize?

GCC and ASEAN are regional organizations formed for the benefit of each region. Therefore, both organizations may undertake active cooperation in various fields. Indonesia encourages more comprehensive cooperation between ASEAN and GCC, especially in the economic and trade sectors from the ASEAN-GCC FTA, to maximize both parties' exchange of goods equally needed.

I want to note that ASEAN countries are considered as major producers of natural products such as rice and palm oil.

At the same time, the Gulf countries are making great strides in producing the petroleum oil that ASEAN countries need.

This can be positively used to ensure the common interests of both countries in the region. Thus, to promote cooperation between the two regions, Saudi Arabia and Indonesia agreed to start cooperation between GCC and Indonesia.

Indonesia encouraged the formation of the Indonesia-GCC Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to help facilitate better outcomes for both economies, especially for Saudi Arabia, as a key economic partner for Indonesia. This will strengthen multilateralism in general.

On the subject of education and Vision 2030. Saudi Arabia has established a free university in Jakarta that educates over 3,500 students annually. How would you evaluate the competence of Indonesian youth as professionals who can contribute to the Saudi Vision 2030?

Indonesia highly appreciates the academic and scientific cooperation with Saudi Arabia lasting more than 40 years. The cooperation has contributed to the improvement of youth education in Indonesia.

The Arabic language, the history of Saudi Arabia, and Islam are taught to Indonesian youth, especially in the various traDQ LIVING MAGAZINE JULY-AUGUST 2021

ditional Islamic boarding schools spread across the country.

In addition, through its cultural diplomacy, the Saudi government has inspired those seeking to improve their academic understanding of the Arabic language and Islamic culture.

The education of Indonesian youth in an institution associated with Saudi Arabia will certainly contribute to a better understanding of the dynamics of the Kingdom. In turn, this will foster a closer and more intelligent relationship between the two countries, especially when Saudi society is undergoing a major transformation as part of Vision 2030.

According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (2017), Indonesia was among the five most promising investment countries. What are the essential factors, potential risks, and possible rewards for the Saudi entrepreneurs to invest in Indonesia?

In 2019, Saudi Arabia's total investment in Indonesia was $5.4 million, slightly better than $5.36 million in 2018. However, this figure is still below the expected $6 billion.

During President Joko Widodo's administration, infrastructure projects were pushed across Indonesia to evenly distribute wealth and development in the most remote regions of the country. The Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) was created to externally manage investments and support infrastructure projects. To this end, invitations were sent to several countries in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, to participate in financing Indonesia's ever-growing infrastructure projects.

As a result, several Saudi investments have been made in projects in Aceh and East Kalimantan.

Indonesia's Shariah financial and banking sector has also experienced noticeable development. This has created ample opportunity for Saudi Arabia to invest in Bank Syariah Indonesia, a state-owned banking facility specifically dedicated to Sharia-compliant banking. While progress is possible, much remains to be done. Indonesia has been able to improve its business infrastructure and good business practices to provide better opportunities to increase foreign investment from Saudi investment companies.

In recent years, tourism in Indonesia has been thriving, accounting for 4.1% of total GDP for the year 2017. What makes Indonesia an attractive destination specifically for Saudi tourists?

Indonesia has granted Saudi citizens a visa on arrival opportunity, and up to 33,800 Saudis travel to Indonesia every year. Of course, it will be possible to increase tourist activity in the future. Indonesia is becoming an increasingly popular destination for honeymooners from the Middle East, including the Saudis, with Bali as a favorite destination.

Indonesia is currently developing five new must-visit tourism destinations, namely the picturesque Lake Toba in North Sumatra province, Borobudur, the largest Buddhist temple in the world located in Central Java province, Mandalika Resort in West Nusa Tenggara province, Labuan Bajo with Komodo National Park in East Nusa Tenggara province, and Likupang in North Sulawesi province with its magnificent beaches and

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underwater park. These destinations have been developed along with the numerous amenities that can serve and cater tourists from Saudi Arabia.

For this reason, the Indonesian embassy, in cooperation with the Ministry of Tourism, regularly hosts tourism exhibitions in Saudi Arabia and invites Saudi YouTubers and influencers to visit Indonesia. As a result, their subscribers will see posts and videos, and it is hoped that more Saudi tourists of different ages will be able to visit Indonesia.

The opportunity for benefiting from tourism sector may also be mutual to both side Due to a large number of Indonesian pilgrims, Saudi authorities may also create a religious tourism package for Indonesian pilgrims to extend their stay in Saudi Arabia.

The Indonesian embassy is located in the Diplomatic Quarter, a unique example of multicultural cooperation and trust in diplomacy. What would be your thoughts on the concept of DQ? How does the location contribute to multilateral collaboration?

The DQ was designed not only to accommodate foreign embassies and the Saudi-based regional and international organizations but also as a cosmopolitan center offering the best quality of life and a unique destination for intercultural dialogue. It is definitely felt by the people living in the area.

The neighborhood of the DQ has unique cultural landmarks such as the Cultural Palace and other venues for holding conferences, forums, and exhibitions, which we often used for our cultural programs, especially before the pandemic.

The variety of parks and gardens, great public services in the area, and close distance to the central area of Riyadh certainly make the DQ one of the best areas to live in Saudi.

What is the daily routine of the Ambassador of Indonesia in the DQ? Any favorite places?

I usually start my day with physical exercise before going to work. Sometimes when the weather permits, I often do my exercise in one of the many great parks around the area.

On weekends or holidays, I spend time socializing with other Indonesian expatriates. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, these interactions usually took place in one of the beautiful scenic parks in DQ. Now, as the Health Protocol prescribes, these interactions have been limited to virtual meetings.

Nevertheless, I hope to communicate directly with my fellow Indonesians soon, as the embassy has been and continues to be their home abroad in the Kingdom.

Embassy of Indonesia Amr Aldamri St, Al Safarat, Riyadh 12512 Contact No: 0011 488 2800 Website: https://kemlu.go.id/riyadh/id Twitter: @riyadh_kbri

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DUR AL WADI RESIDENTIAL COMPOUND Unique facilities for an upgraded lifestyle

D

ur Hospitality inaugurated its high-end residential compound, Dur Al Wadi, on January 1, 2021, in a step that confirms its commitment to expand its operations within the residential segment and enrich the Saudi housing market. Stretched over 5,000 sqm, the property is strategically situated in the scenic Hanifa Valley, a 6-minute drive from the high-end Diplomatic Quarter in the capital, Riyadh.

Dur Al Wadi revives the authentic Andalusian allure, blending modernity with the beauty of ancient architecture, and poses as an inviting, homely environment within a wider hotel-like ecosystem. Housing 66 residential units engulfed in a lavish setting, the compound is also equipped with diverse amenities such as a fitness centre, an indoor swimming pool, a children’s football pitch, as well as meeting rooms with an attractive yard view.

With captivating designs and a smooth blend of warm earth colours, the interior of the apartments give off an ambience of relaxation and comfort. To suit the modern family needs, two-unit sizes are available, each designed

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with the highest standards of practical luxury in mind. The apartments feature elegant rooms, including a spacious living room with a dining area, a master bedroom annexed to a lush dressing room with plenty of storage spaces, and more.

The compound is secured through a reliable hi-tech system, and comprises an underground parking with a dedicated external parking space for guests. With the property’s distinctive features and Dur’s high-standard services, Dur Al Wadi makes for a safe, opulent, and ideal neighbourhood.

Dur Al Wadi is operated by Dur Communities, the residential facility and property management arm of Dur Hospitality which has been awarded the ISO 9001 International Quality Certificate, in recognition of its commitment to the quality management system and its keenness to provide maintenance and facility management services by qualified and trained staff with extensive experience in the field, in accordance to best practices and international standards.

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ABOUT DUR COMMUNITIES Dur Communities, the residential property management arm of Dur Hospitality Company, was designed with the purpose of transforming the residential compounds` experience. Its portfolio encompasses 9 residential compounds located in key cities across Saudi Arabia with over 1380 residential units surrounded by green spaces and full-fledged sporting and recreation facilities.

Dur Communities provides a range of professional facilities, property, maintenance, and security management services, in addition to quality control services and operational services of marketing, and renting out residential units. Utilizing its know-how in hotel operations and asset management, Dur Communities also extends operational and executive solutions to real estate investors.

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Dur Communities has earned ISO 9001 certification for offering world-class maintenance and property management services presented by skillful and well-trained staff.

DUR Hospitality Co. P.O. Box 5500, Riyadh, 11422, Saudi Arabia

Contact No: +966-11-481-6666 ext. 600 Email: leasing@dur.sa Website: www.dur.sa

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Discussion with Russian Consul General in Jeddah

Dr. Abakarov Yusup ALEXANDER WOODMAN In 1926, the first Russian Mission to Saudi Arabia was established in Jeddah. How do you envision your service and contribution to Russian Consulate General in Jeddah? How would you define your role in bridging and harmonizing the interests of two countries?

Historically, in 1891, the consulate in Jeddah was opened with the main purpose to support the Russian Muslims perform pilgrimages to holy cities Mecca and Medina. The tasks performed by the consulate included the passport service to the Russian citizens, assistance in their accommodation, and protection of their rights and interests. The historical materials show that the consulate was responsible for "protecting the interests of Russian, Bukhara and Chinese subjects." In 1914, due to the outbreak of the First World War, the consulate was closed. In 1926, after the Soviet Union recognized the independence of Saudi Arabia, a plenipotentiary mission was opened in Jeddah.

Unfortunately, in 1938, the plenipotentiary mission was closed for half a century when diplomatic relations between the USSR and Saudi Arabia were severed.

In 1990, an agreement was reached on the normalization of bilateral relations to restore diplomatic missions' activities. Since April 1991, the Consulate General has been operating in Jeddah, and since May 1991 - the Russian Embassy in Riyadh. In December 1991, the Saudi Embassy in Russia was opened in Moscow. By mutual agreement of the Russian and Saudi sides, 7 of the 13 regions of Saudi Arabia were assigned to the Consulate General in Jeddah, which formed the Consular District, including Mecca and Medina.

The responsibilities of the current Consulate General of Russia in Jeddah are developing and strengthening rela-

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tions between two countries, assisting Russian pilgrims, and protecting their and other Russian citizens' rights and interests. Pilgrims and tourists are the essences of people-to-people diplomacy, and hundreds of thousands of Russian citizens visiting Saudi Arabia return with love and affection in their hearts. Therefore, creating decent conditions for them and helping them in difficult situations is the Consulate General's main task, which we try to handle with the comprehensive assistance of the Saudi government.

In 2017, King Salman became the first Saudi monarch to pay an official visit to Russia. What is the role of wise leadership in overcoming adversity and moving towards prosperity?

In October 2017, the state visit of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud to Russia took place. The leaders of the two countries held talks, which resulted in the signing package of the documents. In particular, the Agreement on Cooperation in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space for peaceful purposes, the roadmap for trade, economic, scientific, and technological cooperation, cultural cooperation programs, as well as agricultural cooperation projects, program on implementation of cooperation in the field of peaceful use of nuclear energy, among others.

I also want to emphasize that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman visited Russia five times, not to mention other meetings on the sidelines of international summits. Leaders' meetings contribute to solving many problems that exist both in the region and beyond. For example, environmental and clean energy programs and establishing a "green" economy pave the way for interaction between the two countries' economies, promote an increase in

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FEATURE

trade turnover, foster tourism, and strengthen cultural ties. In addition, the fact that Russia and Saudi Arabia have already sent 14 satellites into space over the years of cooperation speaks volumes.

What economic opportunities will create Vision 2030 and the Strategy of Spatial Development of the Russian Federation until 2025? How can these initiatives diversify business collaboration between two countries?

In 2019, the Strategy of Spatial Development of the Russian Federation until 2025 was approved. It includes the main trends, problems and challenges, objectives, priorities, and directions of the spatial development of Russia.

I will not go into details - the program is large-scale and ambitious. The Strategy of Spatial Development of the Russian Federation considers specific regional aspects of the country's development, such as vast territory with a wide range of climatic zones, large undeveloped areas, disparities in the economic development of the regions. At the same time, it is consistent with the goals set by the Saudi Vision 2030. For example, our program encompasses the following objectives: - Promotion of territorial development of the country; - Economic growth acceleration; - Implementation of an innovation-driven development of Russian Federation by leveraging the economic and technological potential of the largest urban agglomerations and other centers of economic activity; - Improvement of environmental protection, conservation and restoration of biological diversity of Russia, minimization of negative impacts of climate change, protection of cultural landscapes;

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- Enhancement of sustainability of national settlement system through socio-economic transformation of cities and rural areas.

In fact, Saudi Vision 2030 and the Strategy of Spatial Development of the Russian Federation have much in common.

The challenges and tasks the two countries are facing are similar. Hence, I think we have a lot to learn from each other. That is to say, the authorities of our countries have identified the problems and already started to address them.

Our task as diplomats is to facilitate this process, provide information on what can be learned from each other's experience, and push forward joint projects and solutions to achieve existing goals.

A career diplomat, you have served mostly in the Middle East (Yemen, Lebanon, and Egypt). How do assignments in the Middle East challenge you, and what is the rewarding part?

As they say in Russia, the East is a delicate matter. I am grateful to fate that I could devote my life to this difficult but extremely interesting region. Each country where I worked, including Saudi Arabia, has its unique features and diversity, including a wide range of cultures, confessions, natural landscapes. At the same time, they have one thing in common - wonderful and hospitable people.

Generosity, willingness to help a foreigner, to show their country and culture in the best possible light is a distinctive feature of the Arabs. I always tell young employees that they will receive a hundredfold return if they love the Middle East. The best years of my family have passed here. This is the main reward for me both as a professional Russian diplomat and as an ordinary human being.

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SUMMER SKINCARE Dr. Ala’ Mutasim Dermatologist and Aesthetic Doctor

S

ummer is the season of vacations, water sports, and tanning. Because of the hot weather and excessive humidity, your skin may suffer from dryness, acne breakouts, wide pores, hyperpigmentation, sunburns, and exacerbation of some skin diseases such as rosacea.

How do you plan the best skincare routine during summer?

Good hydration and sun protection are the cornerstones of skincare during this hot weather.

STEPS:

1. Wash your face twice daily using gentle, foamy, and hydrating cleansers.

2. U se moisturizer lotions for face, lips, and body. It is important to use non comedogenic light lotions that contain hyaluronic acid and vitamin E. 3. Wear your broad spectrum sunscreen and reapply it every couple of hours. The sunscreen should cover UVB light (SPF 30-50) and UVA light ++++. There are a lot of good sunscreens that contains whitening components to reduce the chance of your skin getting pigmented.

4. Avoid heavy makeup, and choose non comedogenic, light products.

5. G ently exfoliate your skin twice weekly by using body scrubs to smooth skin bumps and clean up blocked pores.

6. H ydrate from inside-out. Drink at least eight cups of water daily in addition to fresh fruit juices.

7. S hower daily, but avoid long showers with too hot water. It will over dry your skin, causing inflammation and even eczema. Do not forget to apply a moisturizing cream that contains glycerin and paraffin immediately after shower.

8. Add vitamin C serum to your summer routine to prevent hyperpigmentation and to alleviate wrinkles.

9. Avoid midday sun exposure by staying in the shade or wearing protective clothes and hats.

10. If you suffer from sunburn, sun sensitivity, acne breakouts or melasma, visit your dermatologist right away!

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What procedures can be done to give you glowing skin and a charming look during summer?

1. Dermapen, a device with microneedling technology that stimulates collagen, narrows wide pores, repairs scars, and provides channels for the added plasma and mesotherapy to penetrate the skin. What is interesting about it is that it has no downtime; you can go out the same day comfortably and it has no side effects such as scarring or pigmentation.

2. Mesotherapy injection targets acne, pigmentation and wrinkles, providing skin tightness, glow, and refreshment.

3. Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) contains a lot of growth factors that stimulate collagen and increase blood supply to the skin.

4. Skin boosters contain high concentrations of non-cross-

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linked hyaluronic acid which provide excellent hydration to skin, repair damaged skin by stimulating collagen, and alleviate wrinkles.

5. Hair boosters and PRP and mesotherapy strengthen and smoothen hair shafts and prevent hair fall 6. All cosmetic procedures are preferable during summer like botox for wrinkles, fillers for lips and face contouring, and threads for face and neck lifting because summer is full of weddings and important events.

7. Mesotherapy for lipolysis gets rid of resistant fatty areas.

8. Body fillers is perfect to contour bodies.

Tanning exposes you to damaging UV rays

STEPS:

1. I t is better to shower, shave, and exfoliate your skin a day or two before tanning.

2. Do not apply makeup, perfumes, or essential oils before tanning.

3. Use sunless tanning oils or lotions with broad-spectrum sun protection with SPF30 to protect from UVA & UVB rays.

4. Take breaks during tanning and spend some time in the shade.

5. The best time for fast tanning is between 10 AM and 4 PM but the risk of sunburn is very high especially if you have fair skin.

6. Drink a bottle of water during and immediately after tanning to prevent dehydration.

7. Do not shower for at least four hours after tanning in order to keep oils in your skin.

8. Apply moisturizing cream immediately before and after tanning.

“The Golden Rule of Tanning is that dry skin is tanning’s mortal enemy!” To make the new tan last longer, apply moisturizers daily.

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But how to choose the best moisturizers?

Choose “after sun” lotions or “tan extender” lotions that contain shea butter, glycerin, organic oils, and vitamins. These have a cooling and moisturizing effect.

9. Apply anti-aging and skin firming lotions daily to prevent sun-induced damage and wrinkles.

10. D o not overdo it. Allow 3-4 days to pass between tanning sessions 11. C heck your skin during tanning. If you notice redness you should go in shade and use after sun lotions.

12. Check your skin frequently if you tan constantly; if you have any new moles or you notice changes of persistent moles, visit your dermatologist right away!

SUMMER HAIR CARE ROUTINE:

1. Start the summer with a trim to get rid of split ends and to refresh your style.

2. Protect your hair from UV light by covering it with a scarf or a hat or by applying hair care products that contain UV filters.

3. Wash your hair less often and make sure to use moisturizing shampoo and conditioner.

4. Rinse your hair with fresh water after swimming in the pool or beach.

5. Make loose and comfortable hairstyles and avoid tight hairstyles that cause hair damage.

6. Minimize the use of hot hair dryers during summer.

7. Use wide-tooth combs that are gentle for untangling hair.

8. Use hair moisturizing creams or oils for hair shafts.

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RETURN TO RIYADH ARLEN GARGAGLIANO

PHOTO TAKEN BY HARRIET STILES

W

elcome back! says the Riyadh airport customs worker as he hands me my now-stamped passport, once he’s reviewed my health declaration, recorded my fingerprint, and seen my visa. Due to my face mask, he can’t see the grin in my mouth, but I’m sure he can see my smiling eyes—as I can see his.

“Shukran,” I say as I carefully replace my passport, muqeem form, and PCR documents and head towards the luggage area. I look around and despite all being mask-clad, the scene feels so comfortable.

This is my first time back in the Kingdom since I left for my New York home at the onset of the pandemic. I left on March 15, 2020, on the last flight to New York prior to the lockdown. I had exited quickly, without many of my belongings, and with the idea that I’d be able to return to Riyadh within a couple of months, once COVID-19 ended and all was better.

But, as we know, that’s not how it happened. So here we are, 16 months later, and I am feeling the excitement of actually being back here after much anticipation—the starts and stops due to the pandemic restrictions, not to mention vaccinations, and numerous WhatsApp messages.

The luggage begins traveling around the circle looking for its owners. I see some women in niqabs and hijabs, holding their exhausted babies whose schedules have been thrown

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DQ LIVING MAGAZINE JULY-AUGUST 2021

FEATURE As I’m exploring, I hear the muezzin—and close my eyes to take it in. Yes, I’m home.

A first day’s breakfast has me at Oud Square, where I feast on Bateel treats like a date and avocado smoothie, Shakshuka—a dish whose varieties I always love, and whose versions I still work to recreate, and more. Right then, everything looks brighter, tastes better, smells that much more fragrant than what I remembered.

Fast forward to the next day: I’m with two dear friends on my first road trip to AlUla. The ten-hour plus car trip is punctuated by coffee and bathroom stops. Camels ignore us as we drive by. Their dinosaur-like beings dot the desert backdrop.

The other-planet-like views intensify as we get closer to our destination. The sun-kissed golden sandstone structures—despite their foreboding enormity—are welcoming.

We can’t help but consider that humans have been seeing this same scene for centuries.

way off due to time changes and the 12-hour flight. I know exactly how they feel, only the thrill of being back in Saudi gives me the adrenaline rush I need to stay awake—and delighted. Well, that and the fact that having a plane ride that was only just over 50% full gave me the chance to lie down and sleep—in between watching one of my most comforting classic movies, “Casablanca.” Yes, they’ll always have Paris. And, I’ll always have Riyadh.

AlUla—not unlike this whole return to Riyadh—is a dream come true. Tasty to the eye and the palate, we feast on multiple versions of Mutabbaq, devour the dates, enjoy jareesh, sips of Arabic coffee, and more.

Luggage in hand, I whisk all through the “nothing to declare” archway and immediately exit to find the driver who’s holding my name on a sign board. He takes my two suitcases, and leads me outside. The hot air, once described to me as that of a hair dryer, greets me with a warm spicy hug.

Aywa—Riyadh, and aywa, it is summertime, and aywa— YES-- marra har!

The trip from the airport to the Diplomatic Quarter had me glued to the window. The driver—seeing my awe and interest—allowed me the space to ponder the differences in what I was seeing now compared to the Riyadh I left behind. We get to the DQ guards, and as the driver lowers the window, I proudly declare, “I’m going home!” and am subsequently waved right in.

Once in my room, I find my belongings—ranging from toothpaste to clothes I’ve been looking for months—books, notes, almost an archeological dig reminding me of “where I was” 16 months ago.

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Arlen with Ariane Bernard and Harriet Stiles.

At darkness, the night sky—spotted with sparkling white stars and planets—also invites. Dogs sing in a chorus reminiscent of the 101 Dalmatians twilight bark. The sound interrupts the tremendous stillness and peace as they announce, “We’re all here together.”

Life’s adventure continues.

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ON THE GO

Whether it’s a weekend swimming trip to Farasan Island, a five-day food trip in Jeddah, or a month-long trip to enjoy the cool climate of the Asir region, these are the travel essentials you should pack for your next great adventure.

Paravel Packing Cube Quad

Sustainable, customizable four-part organizer $ 255, tourparavel.com

Rimowa Check-In L

Strong, durable, lightweight, and in the perfect summer color rimowa.com/sa/en/home

Hydro Flask Water Bottle

The perfect travel companion $ 33, hydroflask.com

Hermes Danse Pacifique Scarf

New Balance FuelCell Propel Shoes

Complements any outfit and can be worn in many ways SR 2,055, www.hermes.com

Seamless, supportive fit and an ultra-athletic aesthetic SR 450, newbalance.com.sa

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SHOP

Amazon Fine Mist Spray Bottles

Set of mini bottles for liquid essentials (sanitizers!) $ 10, amazon.sa

Michael Kors Bedford Jet Set Girls Weekender Bag Spacious compartment for a weekend’s worth of essentials SR 2,560, michaelkors.global

Urbanista Noise Cancelling Headphone Companion to a sound journey of up to 50 hours of playtime SR 634, namshi.com

Adidas Cloud Foam Pure Shoes

Soft cushioning for long days on your feet SR 369, shop.adidas.com.sa

Away Travel Clear Pouch Set Water-resistant, spill proof and TSA-approved pouches $ 45, awaytravel.com

H&M Fisherman’s Hat Fashionable, reversible SR 49, sa.hm.com

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TRAVELING IN KSA? Learn these phrases!

SEHAM ALMUBARAK

Traveling to a new country enriches one’s life and knowing some phrases that will help in going around and living every day life is a way to immerse yourself in a new culture.

Saudi Arabia – a culture like no other: Exploring the fascinating haven of the Middle East is a “do not miss” opportunity that should be added to your bucket list: Saudi Arabia is a country rich in culture, traditions, and heritage. Saudis are known to be warm and friendly; once you start mumbling a few Arabic words, they are more than eager to help you learn the language.

Experiencing the Arabic language before travelling – how useful is it?

Getting exposed to the Middle Eastern culture is a life-changing journey - it’s a land enriched with rituals, culture, and religion. You will always find different accents and words throughout the whole area, although they are all based on the “formal” Arabic. Before experiencing the culture, knowing a bit of the language will help you move around more and find hidden gems that are only known by locals. Learning a few expressions makes for a simple

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route and a more profound enthusiasm for the space.

It additionally expands your insight - an advantage that serves well even after you get back to your own land.

Learning Saudi dialects will bring a universe of experience and new encounters.

What are the easiest, yet useful phrases you can use in Saudi Arabia?

1) ‫( لسالم عليكم‬Assalam alaykum) Meaning: Hello or Hi (Literally “God’s peace upon you, mostly used by Muslims) This is generally the most used welcome greeting. However, you can also use ‫( مرحبا‬marHaba), this greeting might be more common especially between foreigners and Saudis.

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FEATURE

2) ‫( وعليكم السالم‬wa alaykum a salaam) Meaning: Hello or Hi (as a response) This phrase is used to reply after the first greeting.

3) ‫ كيف حالك؟‬kayfa haloka (m) / haloki (f) Meaning: How are you?

It is usually heard among acquaintances or friends, and the answer would be ‫( بـخيـر‬bi-khair), meaning fine or good.

11) ‫( كم السعر‬kam al-eh-zayer) / ‫( بكم هذا؟‬bikum hadha?)

Meaning: What is the price? / Meaning: How much is this?

These phrases are going to be super useful when it comes to shopping in any bazaar or market, and do not be afraid when you pronounce; locals will always be there to help you out, since they see it as a compliment. Use ‫( غايل‬ghali) which is “expensive” if you would like to negotiate the prices.

4) ‫( نعم‬naA’am) and ‫( ال‬laa) Meaning: Yes and No.

12) ‫( ممكن الفاتورة؟‬mumkin alfaturah?)

Meaning: Can I have the receipt?

5) ‫( ال مشكلة‬la mooshkilah) Meaning: No problem.

It is often heard when you are requesting something.

ِ 13) ‫سمحت‬ ‫ لو‬.‫سمحت‬ ْ ‫ لو‬law smht (m) / law smhty (f) Meaning: Excuse me.

It could be used also as “please” in a concrete way. You can basically use this phrase in any communication that requires politeness.

ّ (yallah) 6) ‫يل‬ Meaning: Let’s go!

It is a slang word used all over the Middle Eastern, as a sign to let others know that you are ready for the next activity.

7) ‫( شكرا‬shukran) Meaning: Thank you.

A very handy phrase to use throughout your stay.

8) ‫( إن شاء الله‬insha Allah) Meaning: God willing.

14) ‫( رحلة سعيدة‬riHla saeeda) Meaning: Happy trip These are just some of the phrases that you can use around the country. If you want to delve more and learn the Arabic language, let Takleem, a platform for Arabic language learning for non-native speakers, help you in your journey.

9) ‫ أنا سائح من‬..... (ana saEh min) Meaning: I am a tourist from…

This is a super catchy phrase that will help you socialize more!

10) ‫ أريد أن أذهب إىل‬.... (ureed an ath-hab ela) Meaning: I want to go to…

Learning this sentence will be helpful whenever you want to find a place.

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Website: www.takleem.co Email: info@takleem.co Instagram and Twitter: @takleem_ar Facebook: @takleem.ar

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David Burke Restaurant Opens At The Zone REINA TEJANO BERINA

The creative and whimsical culinary energy of David Burke is now in Riyadh as he opens the David Burke Restaurant at The Zone.

We met him in person and learned more about him as a chef, entrepreneur, and why he thinks there’s nothing wrong with a well-done steak.

C

hef David Burke is an internationally recognized, multi-awarded pioneer in modern American cuisine.

From starting out as a dishwasher in Holmdel, New Jersey, Chef Burke has worked his way to success not only as a culinary icon but as a man of many hats. He has opened over 20 restaurants, authored two cookbooks, patented revolutionary cooking techniques, and was recently awarded as Entrepreneur of the Year 2021 by Ernst & Young LLP. Despite the pandemic, Chef Burke has gone against the grain and kept opening new restaurants. He says that he

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didn’t want to be out of business so he decided to ‘go the other way’. “Of course it was also a gamble. Since we already had the seeds planted, why sit around waiting for things to change. I said, let’s go.”

One of those seeds was the David Burke Restaurant in Saudi Arabia - his first venture outside of the US. Impressed by Riyadh’s infrastructure and how the new centers were being built, the David Burke Restaurant found its home in Riyadh Front and more recently, The Zone. Inside the restaurant are touches of Chef Burke’s persona such as the use

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EAT

of Himalayan salt-like bricks for the wall decor (in reference to his signature meat cooking technique) and the colorful stuffed parrots that man the key entrances (reminding us to not be too serious, and have some fun). The ambiance in general feels casual but also smart and elegant.

Their Riyadh menu forced them to think differently, and they did - with gusto. His famous Clothesline Bacon became ‘Clothesline Beef’ and it tastes just as good. Served as described, the service staff will caramelize the meat at tableside with a blow torch, which releases an enticing aroma that will excite any meat lover present. He also incorporated dishes inspired by the best ingredients of his hometown of New Jersey: seafood and tomatoes. The Lobster Dumplings and the Baby Octopus and Maryland Scallops are a must-try.

As for his patented “Saltaged Beef”, many diners from this side of the world will be happy to know that Chef Burke has no problem with cooking steaks well-done: “I’m a fan of making the guests happy. If they want well done meat, that’s fine. I can cook it that way without being dead dry.

That’s their option. Most countries eat meat well done. It’s culture, it’s habit.” Other meat options in their menu include Roasted Leg of Lamb, Wagyu Striploin, USDA Prime Cut Tomahawk Steak, and Double Baby Lamb Chops. The latter was a hearty serving of lamb chops over a bed of couscous and wilted spinach.

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The dessert menu certainly panders to Chef Burke’s whimsical side, with his play on sweet dishes such as the Caramelized Apple Tart, Assorted Macarons, and his trademarked Cheesecake Lollipops - an item that will enchant the young and young at heart. Presented like a holiday tree with cotton candy as garnish, the gourmet pops are covered in various chocolate flavors and textures where you’ll find a pillowy cheesecake inside every bite.

Chef Burke’s new endeavor here in Riyadh is another step in elevating the city’s culinary landscape. He says, “At the David Burke Restaurant, we expect you to try things you may not have tried before. We do make our food fun and interesting but we make sure it tastes good first.”

Even with his over thirty years of experience in the food industry, Chef Burke’s passion for innovation and and giving back to the community shows no sign of slowing. Apart from opening even more restaurants, he shares with me his plans for the future, "I want to open a cooking school. I'm working on the idea in my head but my next goal is to start teaching students how to cook."

David Burke Restaurant The Zone, Takhassusi St, Al Mohammadiyyah, Riyadh 12362 Opening Hours: Sun-Thurs: 4:00 PM-12:00 AM Fri-Sat: 1:00 PM-12:00 AM Contact No: 011 210 2080 Website: davidburke-ksa.com Instagram: @davidburkeksa

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From our Home to Yours Handmade crafts and personally curated products made out of passion and love. All available in the DQ! LAURINE GAYLE VALES

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ou’ve tried the popular restaurants and shops in the Diplomatic Quarter, but did you know that in some of the houses in the DQ are residents who are turning their talents and passion into something worth buying? Get to know three home-based businesses that you can find right in the neighborhood.

One of the challenges they faced is that since they are just new in Riyadh, it has been difficult for them to find everything that they needed. But despite that, they still manage to offer their customers charcuterie trays that are not only tasty and fresh, but are also very pleasing to the eyes in the way that everything is arranged.

For those who are aspiring to start something but are still hesitant to do it, this is their advice: “To anyone that has a passion for something, just go ahead and start. The beginning is always difficult, but as long as you love what you are doing, you will succeed.”

CHEESE ‘N’ DIP Contact Number: 055 001 2193 Instagram: @cheese.n.dip.dq

Cheese 'n' Dip

Cheese ‘n’ Dip offers gourmet charcuterie platters and various dips. It was started last March 2021 by sisters Zeina and Nadene Jurdy whose love for incorporating art into their dishes gave them an idea to provide gourmet trays and share it to people.

Dear Friend Design

Ana Hilgert, an interior designer and a stay-at-home mom, turned her passion for crocheting into a small business.

Around two years ago, she started Dear Friend Design wherein she offers a large variety of crochet products and can even personalized these items to make them more special and one-of-a-kind.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, the bazaars she used to join were cancelled which limited her chance of showcasing her products, but with her quality and creative

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love for natural products, especially soaps, and after realizing that there is a lack of it in the area, she started making her own and thought of turning it into a business.

She offers a variety of natural soaps and handmade crafts such as jewelries made of resin. Her bestseller is her cloud soaps. People seem to love the shape and colors she used.

She can also customize her soaps according to her client’s preference. items, we’re sure that more people will patronize her small business.

Her advice to others who want to try their luck in a homebased business is “A home-based business is a very volatile business. When you begin, you need to have in mind that it is important to manage well your investments because that is what will affect your financial income. The advantage is that you manage your own time.”

DEAR FRIEND DESIGN Contact Number: 053 916 0458 Facebook: @dearfrienddesign Instagram: @anamatiashilgert

For those who want to venture into business, albeit homebased, her advice is to go for it. It is a lot of fun and very rewarding.

Soaps n' Stuff

In March of this year, Karma Gharzeddine started her home-based business Soaps n’ Stuff. It was born out of her

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SOAPS N’ STUFF Contact Number: 055 001 7528 Instagram: @_soapsnstuff_ Let’s support these small businesses. It’s a win-win situation as you do not only help to boost their business, you also get to have quality products that are made meticulously and are worth your money.

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THE DOCTOR IS IN Your common questions on traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic answered by Dr. Gracia Hamadeh, Family Physician at the Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Center – Diplomatic Quarter.

How can you avoid dehydration when you are travelling?

▪ Make sure you drink a glass of water for every hour of flight time.

▪ Avoid sugary drinks and snacks.

▪ Eat water-rich food products like vegetables, fruits, chia seeds in pudding.

▪ Drink caffeinated beverages in moderation.

▪ Avoid alcohol during flight time.

What should your first aid kit include if you are travelling?

Bandage for minor cuts, safety pins to fasten splints and bandages, antiseptic wipes to disinfect wounds or clean hands, and medications to prevent various travel related illnesses. It is highly advised you consult with your family doctor to equip you with the needed kit.

What steps should I take to protect myself from Covid-19 virus while traveling and using different transportation means?

Even if you are fully vaccinated, follow the steps below to decrease the risk of exposure: ▪ Wear a 3-layer medical mask.

▪ Wash hands frequently with soap and water or 70% alcohol-based sanitizer.

▪ Keep your physical distance, 1-meter apart from another person and avoid crowded or poorly ventilated places.

▪ Follow COVID-19 travel policies and rules required by transport operators and travel hubs.

When can I travel after being infected with coronavirus?

If you test positive for COVID-19, you must isolate yourself for 10 days from the start of symptoms. You can end your isolation and travel after you complete 10 days of isolation, complete fever-free 24-hour duration, and obtain a negative PCR test as per local authorities where you reside.

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If you have a weak immune system, you must contact the nearest medical facility to assess extension of 10-day isolation and symptom improvement if present (shortness of breath, fever, cough).

How soon can I travel after completing my covid-19 vaccination?

You are permitted to travel once you are fully vaccinated after 2 weeks. For instance, you must complete 2 weeks after the second dose of Pfizer or Moderna or AstraZeneca vaccines, or after the single dose of Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine.

What are common side effects of Covid-19 vaccine in pregnant ladies?

The American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology recommends all pregnant ladies to obtain the COVID-19 vaccine. These vaccines have different side effects. Side effects also vary from person to person. Fever is one common side effect that can be treated with over-the-counter paracetamol. If it persists beyond 48 hours, the pregnant lady must contact her gynecologist.

Is it safe for pregnant ladies to travel?

A gynecologist needs to document that the lady is pregnant up to 36 weeks to be able to fly. Safety measures during COVID-19 pandemic apply.

References: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/after-travel-precautions.html https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/ quarantine.html https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/coronavirus-covid-19-pregnancy-and-breastfeeding https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/coronavirus-disease-covid-19-travel-advice-for-the-general-public https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/travelers-firstaid-kit

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DQ RESTAURANT AND CAFE DIRECTORY From trendy cafes to international food favorites, the DQ has it all.

The DQ restaurant scene has evolved, to the delight of residents and visitors alike. No longer is the DQ only a quiet exclave for diplomats; it now hosts a diverse social scene, a place to gather with friends over tasty food, delectable desserts, and of course, specialty coffee drinks.

Urth Caffe This international cafe franchise offers organic coffees, fine teas, and health conscious cuisine. They have friendly and attentive staff too. @urthcaffesaudi

Here is our updated list of restaurants and cafes in the DQ. The operating hours and services are fluctuating due to COVID-19, so be sure to call or check the restaurant’s Instagram for updates.

Cafe Bateel Cafe Bateel is known for its artisanal Italian pastas, gourmet French patisseries and innovative Arabian-inspired creations such as date chocolates, date-olive tapenade and sparkling date juice. @bateelgourmet +966-55-447-5957

OUD SQUARE

Amr Aldamri Street Between Circle 4 and 5 @oudsquare

Leila Min Lebnan A casual Lebanese restaurant offering authentic Lebanese food prepared with the freshest ingredients. @leilarestaurantsriyadh 920029039 Draft Cafe Draft Cafe caters to creative people who want to write, read, design or work in a calm environment that’s serving different kinds of coffee, tea, sandwiches, and desserts. @draftcafe +966-11-2308189

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12 Cups This cafe is the first coffee provider in KSA to allow customers to choose different coffee blends and brewing methods to find sweetness, aroma, acidity, flavor, and body in their cup of coffee. @12_cups Chunk Chunk is a cafe that offers global dessert in a distinctive and attractive way paired well with their hot and cold drinks. @hello_chunk Monopoly Monopoly is an outdoor fine dining restaurant specializing in pizza and fusion food. @monopolysaudi +966-11-810-2324

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FAZARI PLAZA

Amr Aldamri Street Between circles 2 and 3

Starbucks Who doesn’t know this Seattle-based coffeehouse chain popular for its signature roasts, light bites, and WiFi availability? @starbucksmiddleeast Scalini Scalini is a restaurant that serves a wide range variety of cuisines including pasta, pizza, Arabic food, and sushi. @scalinidq +966-11-4810621 / +966-11-4810569 Kalamata Looking for Moroccan and Meditteranean dishes? Kalamata is here to serve up the best savory grills and dishes. @kalamata_dq +966-53-000-4312 La Rustica Terrazza Enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizza where the best and freshest raw materials meet the elegance of simplicity. @la_rustica_sa For DQ reservations, call 055-445-8813 1/2M (Half Million) This café offers signature coffee drinks and mojito which you can partner with their sandwiches, croissants, and sweets. @halfmillion_sa Cereal Protocol Whether you’re a cereal lover or not, you’ll definitely want to try out Cereal Protocol’s offerings. Have a taste of their cereal bowls, cold or hot cereal lattes, cookies, ice cream, and more. @cerealprotocol

PETROL STATION

6575 Abdullah Alsahmi Street Between circles 7 and 8

Starbucks Another branch for this popular coffee chain to go to when the one in Oud Square is busy. @starbucksmiddleeast Dunkin Donuts Long-running chain serving signature donuts, breakfast sandwiches and a variety of coffee drinks. @dunkindonutsksa

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AL KINDY PLAZA

7542 Amr Aldamri Street Between circles 3 and 4 dr.CAFE dr.CAFE is a leading Saudi coffee company that provides quality products and knowledgeable and friendly services. @drcafeksa +966-58-075-1793

Press’d Juicery + Kitchen They offer 100% fresh juices, smoothies, sandwiches, bowls, and hey are the first to offer traditional Vietnamese coffee in the Kingdom @pressdjuicery Jolt This coffee shop is known for its lattes. Try their special drinks from their marbled Spanish Latte, sweet Pistachio Latte, and signature Black Ice. @jolt.sa

Kudu Kudu is a Saudi fast food chain specializing in sandwiches. @kuduksa 920006999 Nine Soft Serve You can’t miss this pink-themed ice cream shop at Al Kindy that offers a variety of ice cream flavors and toppings and ice cream cakes. @ninesoftserve 7 Ribs If you’re looking for the most flavorful and highest quality smoked ribs, then don’t forget to visit 7 Ribs, one of the first local smoked meat restaurants in the Kingdom. @7ribs 0597273787 Yogi It is the destination for simple, seasonal, fresh, and healthy food that is affordable and accessible. They offer salads, sweets, and they also serve great tea and coffee too. @yogi.sa 054 767 4187 (for delivery inside DQ only)

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HOTEL RESTAURANTS Larder Restaurant Larder Restaurant features a famous breakfast and time-honored Middle Eastern delights for lunch and dinner, in a stylish restaurant, leafy terrace, and elegant lounge.

Radisson Blu Hotel & Residence, Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter 7826 Amr Aldamri Street, Between circles 2 and 3 @radissonbluresidenceriyadh +966-11-297 9400 Goji Restaurant Goji Restaurant serves a creative international buffet in an elegant dining atmosphere. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Marriott Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter 6781 Abdullah Alsahmi Street, Between circles 7 and 8 @marriottriyadhdq +966-11-835 3000

Heraa St., Al Safarat, Riyadh 12512, Saudi Arabia (Beside Alliance Francaise) @dolceragusa 0555015046 dr.CAFE Drive-Thru No need to line up inside the café to get your favorite dr.

CAFE drinks Abdullah Alsahmi St., Al Safarat, Riyadh 11566, Saudi Arabia (Near Marriott DQ) Le Maschou A French fine-dine restaurant that serves traditional French food. They are known for their exceptionally authentic array of wood-fire smoked meats.

Tayma St., Al Safarat, Riyadh 11564 @lemaschou_sa 9200 13005

The Coffee Table A perfect spot for coffee lovers at the Marriott Riyadh DQ. It specializes in high-end coffee, delicate desserts, and unique products that guests can enjoy in an elegant and chic setting.

Marriott Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter 6781 Abdullah Alsahmi Street, Between circles 7 and 8 @thecoffeetable.dq +966-11-8353000 ext. 4105

OTHER AREAS IN THE DQ Dolce Ragusa Dolce Ragusa offers high quality collection of Sicilian sweets such as the famous Cannolis. Their delicious sweets show the ultimate union between high quality healthy ingredients and amazing taste.

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MEET

Emad Fahad Aldoghaither CEO of Semanoor Tech 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 am married and a father of six children. I work as the head of a company in the field of eLearning, eTraining, and ePublishing. We also develop games and simulation on iOS, Android, PlayStation, and Xbox platforms. We developed a couple of platforms such as Semanoor for education, vMakkah for Hajj training, and vExpo for conferences and exhibitions.

The work consumes most of my time due to the importance of eLearning; there is a need to assist candidates to develop and reach the digital revolution stage with the required skills and information to keep up with the next stage.

How would family and friends describe you?

I am known to them as an eLearning technology believer and one who is devoted to challenging the education and publishing industry.

Who or what have been the strongest influences in your life?

I’m most influenced by my late father Fahad Aldoghaither -may God have mercy on him. He was my mentor and guide, and his reputation was the greatest thing we inherited from him.

What led you to your career and how has Saudi Arabia helped you in your career goals?

I studied Business Administration and Investment, which is my field of work, but the computer is my hobby since my father gave me an Apple 2 back in 1981. As education is my passion, my studies and experiences combined with a hobby and passion in my work in the field of e-learning helped my career goals.

What are you most proud of accomplishing so far?

I am most proud in adapting the technologies of smart devices, cloud servers, and the Internet in addition to AI to serve education in the correct manner through an integrated platform for all stages of public and university education, training, and publishing in all languages of the world, as well as developing e-book technologies to the SmartBook stage.

What are your thoughts and insights on being a resident of Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia is a promising country as young people constitute the majority, and it has a young leadership that sets an

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ambitious plan 2030 and seeks to achieve it and prepares for what comes after.

Where are your favorite places to visit in Riyadh?

Al Safarat and Riyadh's nights during the summer, especially the farm in the Alammariya area. During winter time, I love the desert especially if it’s raining during spring time. I love watching camels and drinking their milk.

What were your first impressions of the DQ? I have lived in the DQ for 8 years. However, I have known the DQ since the time it was established more than 40 years ago when they were still implementing the landscape and gardens in the Hanifa Valley. I had been visiting the neighborhood since then until I decided to be one of the lucky ones to live here.

What is a typical day like for you?

Since my office is in the neighborhood, I start walking between 5:00 to 6:00 AM and then reach my office by 7:30 AM. By 5:30 PM, I have lunch with my family and then visit relatives and friends until 9 in the evening. My schedule may change during weekends.

What do you like most about the DQ? The neighborhood is known for its calmness and the fact that my office and my children’s school are not more than five minutes away so my need to move around is few which gives me more space to work and focus on my work which requires a great deal of creativity.

What is something you wish the DQ had, but currently doesn’t?

Any service that reduces the need of the residents to leave the neighborhood is required, especially in the conditions of quarantine that showed the need for the presence of shopping centers for the residents’ basic needs.

Any tips/recommendations/advice for your DQ neighbors?

I hope the residents benefit from some of the neighborhood's services such as the gardens and the valley walking tracks, so I strongly advise them to get to know the beauty of the neighborhood by visiting all its facilities on foot, especially during the spring weather. Also, I strongly advise them to try having picnics outside Riyadh in the springtime and enjoy the fantastic views and atmosphere.

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