Vol. 5 Iss. 5 DQ Living: Celebrating the Comeback!

VOLUME 5 ISSUE 5 SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2021

CELEBRATING THE

Comeback!

THE RIYADH SEASON 2021 PRIMER

ASTOUNDING AUSTRIA

ENTERTAINING DINNERS IN THE CITY

Photo credit: Alsanqer Abdullah H / Shutterstock.com

Welcome to DQ Living’s Entertainment and Shopping issue!

Do you still remember the time when huge events brought wonder, excitement, and fun in the city? Remember the Saudi Seasons in 2019? Who can’t wait to experience it all over again? Wait no more; instead, imagine more! The second edition of the Riyadh Season is launching soon and we are giving you the details in this issue.

The 91st Saudi National Day last September has re-introduced us to an event with crowds; just like during the pre-pandemic times. While still adhering to health protocols, both locals and expats have come together to celebrate the Kingdom, it’s heritage, culture, and people. The Diplomatic Quarter and Marriott DQ also joined the festivities with their own National Day programs.

Entertainment venues have reopened and we bring you a list of restaurants that offer delicious food, art displays, and music nights too. For a quiet yet elegant dinner featuring authentic dim sum and Cantonese dishes, Yauatcha’s rooftop dining experience tops the list.

For some retail therapy, the DQ Living team gathered the trendiest stores in Riyadh - concept stores that offer well-curated items of local and international brands. Our collection of green apparel and accessories in the Shop section is an ode to the Saudi National Day. Where to travel next? Austria will ignite a spark of wanderlust in you. Whatever the season is - from winter to summer there’s an activity worth doing and a place worth going to in this astounding country.

Our community is growing and we’re glad to be your guide in the DQ! Don’t forget to check out our directory of top businesses and services in the Diplomatic Quarter.

Saudi Arabia is returning to “normal” and we’re excited about the surprises ahead. Together, we’ll unravel what this year still has to offer.

Publisher Fayez Aldosari

Project Coordinator Maria Cometti

Marketing Coordinator Contributors

Distributed by Alyaa Malik Aevan Caro

Fellin F. Kinanti Editorial Assistant Arlen Gargagliano Laurine Gayle Vales Salma Siddiqua

Reina Tejano Berina Editors Columnists

Laurine Gayle Vales Naureen Ahmed Alexander Woodman Janelle Vales Yasay Advertise with us!

Ali Al Saad

Ready to deliver your message to Hind Al Saad

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Website: www.dqliving.com Inquire today at projects@sharakahmedia.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

Contents 05 COVER | Celebrating the Comeback

36 SHOP | 6 Must-Visit Concept Stores in Riyadh

ON THE COVER: Marriott Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter celebrates the 91st Saudi National Day, and the comeback of events and gatherings in Saudi Arabia.

10 LIVE | DUR Al Wadi Residential Compound

40 DO | Arabius: Learning the Language and Culture of Saudi Arabia

Contributors

14 GO | Astounding Austria

44 EAT | Yauatcha Riyadh: A Culinary Rendezvous of the East and West

30 FEATURE | Entertaining Dinners in the City

54 FIND | DQ Establishments Directory

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.

LAURINE GAYLE VALES is DQ Living's editorial assistant and social media manager. Her free times are spent listening to music and reading, especially psychological thriller books as she is fascinated by the ever-changing human behavior and the intricate power of the human mind.

ARLEN GARGAGLIANO, a Spanish speaker who has wanted to learn Arabic for several years, is a writer, cookbook author, teacher, and teacher trainer. She is currently teaching Second Language Acquisition in Westchester Community College’s TESOL Certificate Program.

JANELLE VALES-YASAY is the Editorin-Chief of the award-winning blog, The Pink Tarha. She has a knack for witty comebacks, bursts of creativity and lipsticks for all occasions. Fueled by iced drinks, desserts and thousands of e-books from her Kindle, she has also written for several publications in Riyadh.

A resident of Riyadh since she was five years old, the DQ holds a special place in REINA TEJANO-BERINA’s heart.

A self-proclaimed arbiter of taste, she often writes about her food experiences from around the city. She is also the co-founder of The Pink Tarha, an award-winning lifestyle blog about Riyadh.

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

SPECIAL DISCOUNT AT GOJI RESTAURANT FOR READERS OF DQ LIVING MAGAZINE Enjoy the weekend brunch offerings of Goji Restaurant at the Riyadh Marriott Diplomatic Quarter and get 20% OFF! Just make sure to show that you are following their Instagram account @marriottriyadhdq and mention the code DQ20 when getting your bill.

Brunch is every Friday and Saturday, 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Offer is valid until November 31, 2021 For inquiries/reservations, contact: +966 59 159 1728

CARIBOU COFFEE is a newly opened café in the Diplomatic Quarter. They offer signature coffee served hot or iced, smoothies, sandwiches, and baked goods. When you visit this blue and grey-themed café, don’t miss out on their bestsellers such as the Turtle Mocha and Campfire Mocha. Avail of their promo where you can get their Coffee of the Day and Cold Press Lemonade for 10 SAR only on all sizes for a limited time this October.

Address: Al Kindy Plaza, beside the Cultural Palace Contact No.: +966 58 166 5077 Social Media: @cariboucoffeesa

COMING SOON Another artisan café and bakery to look out for this November is WACAFE. They’ll bring in to the DQ their classic and signature drinks like their Wacafe Latte, Salted Caramel Latte, and Cold Brew which are perfect matches to their croissants, pancakes, and waffles. Watch out for their opening at Amr Aldamri St, Al Safarat, and follow their Instagram @wacafecoffee for updates.

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COVER

CELEBRATING THE

Comeback REINA TEJANO-BERINA

After over a year of combatting and containing COVID-19 in the Kingdom, Saudi Arabia is now ready to reopen and re-imagine the new normal with exciting events and entertainment ahead.

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n the years of 2018 to 2019, Saudi Arabia started opening its doors to the world. Not just with granting visit visas to tourists and launching giga projects, but also through the multitude of international concerts, pop-up restaurants, and themed events that’s been able to advance the entertainment industry in the country. With all the world halting to the cause of COVID by early 2020, Saudi Arabia wasted no time in organizing effective and efficient means to control the spread and prioritize the safety of its citizens and residents.

The proper precautions Thanks to the innovative applications developed by the government, such as the Sehatty and Tawakkalna; and the productive vaccination drive by the Ministry of Health their joint efforts have made the return to the “new normal” consolidated and reliable. As the number of cases lowered in the past few months and with the Riyadh Season launching, strategies are in place to ensure that the return of public gatherings are practicing the necessary precautionary measures.

A reason to celebrate With the lifting of restrictions, it’s time to adapt and accept these new ways of gathering and celebrating. It may not be the same as before, but it doesn’t mean that it won’t get better. That glimmer of hope was palpable during last month’s celebration of the 91st Saudi National Day, which was the gateway to restarting public events in the Kingdom. The city of Riyadh was lit with green neon lights and a vibrant national campaign titled “A Home For Us” was visible everywhere. Commercial establishments also took part by providing offers and discounts for the long week-

For instance, as of October 10th, an individual’s immunization status must reflect having received two doses of the approved vaccines in Saudi Arabia before being allowed entry to any commercial or governmental establishments. It simply means that it’s now a requirement to be fully vaccinated to gain access to any public place. Apart from that, all event areas must enforce the limited number of attendees, unless in an outdoor setting. The Gathering Code feature in the Tawakkalna app monitors the number of visitors in a certain venue and once the maximum capacity is reached, succeeding visitors need to wait before a certain number of people leave first before they can enter.

The government had just announced the reduced health measures starting October 17. Face masks are no longer mandatory while outdoors and full capacity are now restored in public places, transportation, restaurants, and cinemas.

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Photo credit: Twitter.com/SaudiHawks

end leading up to the Saudi National Day. By 10:00 PM of September 22, the main roads were already bustling with traffic as men and women paraded their vehicles in the highways, waving the Saudi flag high to welcome the official day by midnight. In the late afternoon thereafter, the Royal Saudi Air Force known as the Saudi Hawks hovered over the skies for the biggest airshow they have performed to date. Saudia Airlines, FlyNas, and FlyaDeal also participated by flying their airplanes side by side over the major cities. In Riyadh, the public viewing was held at Um Ajlan Park - a large open space that was able to accommodate hundreds of families who wanted to join in the festivities.

The airshow lasted for an hour, entertaining the crowd with their aerobatic feats and trails of colored smoke. By nightfall, fireworks illuminated the skies all across the Kingdom in jubilation of its glorious history and promising future.

Ready to return...and more.

Now that things have been tried and tested, the General Entertainment Authority has its calendar full of exciting events, including the much anticipated grand opening of the Riyadh Season Imagine More, MDL Beast Sound Storm, Formula One Grand Prix in Jeddah, cultural programs at Ithra, and concerts in Al Ula. Specific details are still in the works but one thing is for sure, Saudi Arabia is ready to serve up the good vibes we all need and deserve in the safest way possible.

Photo credit: Alsanqer Abdullah H / Shutterstock.com

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IMAGINE MORE AT RIYADH SEASON 2021 Riyadh Season is back, and it’s going to be bigger than ever!

R

NAUREEN AHMED

iyadh Season, one of the Saudi Seasons launched two years ago as Saudi Arabia opened its doors to tourists, had its first run in October 2019 and was definitely one of the most memorable and amazing events in the capital city of KSA. Riyadh Season became the showpiece of modern KSA. It represented some of the major social changes that happened in the Kingdom in the past few years. There were many activities, events, and concerts during the third quarter of 2019 that were extended to the first quarter of 2020.

Before the pandemic hit, some of the zones of Riyadh Season were still up and running. The event has attracted not only locals and expats in Saudi Arabia but also citizens from the GCC and other Arab countries. The number of visitors exceeded 10 million!

Fast forward to 2021 and the General Entertainment Authority headed by its chairman, Turki Al Shaikh, has announced a second edition of the much-loved event. And it’s just around the corner! Riyadh Season 2021 will kick off on October 20, 2021 and will run until March 2022! Expect over 7,500 activities, 500 electronic games, nine international studios, four theaters, and more than 200 restaurants, cafés, and stores!

The most important elements of the Season are the zones.

These are themed venues scattered all over Riyadh. They present various events and activities focused on specific themes. For Riyadh Season 2021, there will be 14 exciting zones! Some zones from the first edition are making a comeback this year and some are even here to stay.

One of the most visited and biggest zones last 2019 is the Riyadh Boulevard, where concerts and festivals were held.

This year, the Boulevard will be triple in size and will have

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sub-areas with their own set of activities, restaurants, and outlets. The highlight of this zone is its huge dancing, lit fountain that mesmerized both adults and children.

Winter Wonderland was a favorite in 2019. It was a fantasy land that rose on a wide empty lot north of Riyadh. It was filled with carnival rides, arcade games, and restaurants housed in small wooden huts that formed central villages.

This year’s version will have more than 50 rides including the much-awaited Sky Loop, 6 sub-zones, and more attractions.

DQ LIVING MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2021

Photo credit: Alsanqer Abdullah H / Shutterstock.com

The Riyadh Safari that featured incredible animals will also be back this year. The 45-minute trip to its venue will be worth the distance. Nabd Al Riyadh will also be lit this year. The zone which was held in the area of Masmak Fort in Dirah will continue to highlight Saudi Arabia’s heritage and tradition while Al Murabaa, the venue that hosted luxurious international restaurants, will once again open its doors to fine dining foodies.

Speaking of luxury, a new zone called VIA Riyadh will present ultra-luxurious experiences through VIP cinemas, exquisite fine dining cuisines, world-renowned retail stores, and a luxe hotel. The same vibe is expected at the Oasis, a venue for international brands in the middle of the desert in the outskirts of Riyadh.

Al Salam Tree is reminiscent of 2019’s Magic Forest. This zone is a garden with fountain shows and restaurants that will delight the entire family. The Groves will also be a kid-friendly, pet-friendly zone that has something fun in every corner.

New zones like Al’Athriyah, Qariat Zaman, and Khaloha will bring Saudi Arabia’s heritage, culture, and arts to life.

Nights in these venues will be filled with creativity and talent from painters, musicians, and poets.

It will be pure energy and thrill at the Combat Field. There will be many games to choose from: paintball, battlefields, escape rooms, and more! The Riyadh Front zone will also hold big festivals in various fields and diverse trends: jewelry, perfume, anime, gaming, and cars.

The Riyadh Season 2021 will kick off with a parade on October 20, 2021 and followed by the WWE Crown Jewel on October 21, 2021 to be held at the Mohammed Abdo Theater in Riyadh Boulevard. The WWE has inked a 10year strategic multi-platform partnership with the Saudi General Sports Authority in support of Saudi Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia's social and economic reform program, in 2018 and has since staged shows in Riyadh and Jeddah.

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Football star Lionel Messi has been gracing the ads and teasers of Riyadh Season 2. There will also be an exciting match between his team Paris Saint-Germain and a team composed of Al Hilal and Al Nassr star athletes scheduled early 2022.

The GEA expects huge crowds and it’s one of the first huge events after Saudi Arabia lifted its strict rules during the pandemic. However, precautionary measures are still in place. Only fully vaccinated individuals are allowed to enter event venues. The Tawakkalna app, used in the Kingdom to show the immune status of citizens and residents, has added a feature that allows Riyadh Season visitors to add their tickets to the app.

For more details on the upcoming Riyadh Season, visit the following websites: riyadhseason.sa/index-en.html www.instagram.com/riyadhseason www.facebook.com/RiyadhSeason/ twitter.com/riyadhseason

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DUR AL WADI RESIDENTIAL COMPOUND Unique facilities for an upgraded lifestyle

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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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GO

Astounding

AUSTRIA JANELLE VALES-YASAY

With the challenges and adversity brought by the pandemic, it is important to visit places that set a spark in your well-being and soul.

Feel the spark in Austria! Austria ignites a unique wanderlust in this new normal from old to modern, from urban cities to natural landscapes.

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here is so much to experience and explore in the Republic of Austria, a mountainous landlocked country in south-central Europe surrounded by Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. Located in the center of Europe, between east and west, on the great trade route across the Danube and magnificent Alpine passes, Austria has achieved great growth and prominence.

Austria has risen from more than a quarter-century of social and economic turbulence caused by the 1918 collapse of Austro-Hungarian Empire. After the allied troops withdrew at the end of World War II, the country became a stable and socially progressive nation. Over the years, Austria has been consistently ranking in the top 20 richest countries in the world. Whereas the capital Vienna ranks one of the first in the world in terms of quality of life. With a population of about nine million people, Austria has been a member of the United Nations since 1955 and joined the European Union in 1995.

many ranges and trails. You can take easy day hikes along the Lünersee Circuit Trail, Stone Pine Path, Five Huts Trail, and Giglach Lakes. For more adventurous visitors, the Innergschlöss Glacier Trail, Olpeperhütte, and Friesenberghaus Loop Trail will take you to rivers, waterfalls, lakes, and glacier lookout points. For those who like to "work hard, play hard," the famous ski resort area of St. Anton Am Arlberg is the place to visit and explore. Seefeld, a cross-country skiing center, in Tyrol is the venue of two Winter Olympics and the perfect spot for cold-weather sports and warm-weather treks and hikes.

THE BEAUTY OF AUSTRIA With its cool climate and endless entertainment, it is not easy to stay in one city only. Whether indoors or outdoors, in the water or the mountains, adventure beckons right and left during winter or summer.

The Austrian Alps, which will remind you of the sound of music, is a beautiful hiking destination. Stretching across most of the country, it will take a lifetime to explore its

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With a vibrant history, Austria encompasses fascinating cities, castles, and villages. Vienna is a city celebrated for its architecture and is known as the European capital of classical music.

The 1,441-room Schönbrunn Palace is one of the major tourist attractions, while the Hochosterwitz Castle is believed to be the inspiration behind Sleeping Beauty's castle.

The Hofburg Imperial Palace served as the official Royal residence of the House of Habsburg until World War I. Moreover, a stunning piece of medieval Europe, the Hohensalzburg Castle, turns Salzburg's skyline into a piece of art.

sausages - some of these delicacies are frequently served with sauerkraut (pickled cabbage) and dumplings. When it comes to sweets, Austria is popular for the Apfelstrudel (apple strudel), Sachertorte (chocolate sponge cake with apricot jam), and Linzertorte, a shortcake considered to be

Austria has made an immense contribution to art, specifically music. The country is the birthplace of such genius composers as Johann Strauss, Franz Schubert, Franz Liszt, Anton Bruckner, and Joseph Haydn. The virtuoso Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in Salzburg.

Austria is also home to world-renowned scientists, philosophers, actors, writers, poets, and novelists. The young and old masters of various arts and crafts are captivated and inspired by Austria's alluring and enduring natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Austrian cuisine takes its roots in the former Austro-Hungarian Empire and Central Europe. Most Austrians call the Schnitzel (breaded veal escalope) their national dish, other popular dishes include Tafelspitz (tri-tip meat), Rindsuppe (beef soup), Gulasch (hotpot), as well as various types of

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the oldest cake in the world. Austria is also famous for coffee; a drink served with passion since the second Turkish siege of Vienna in the 17th century. Coffee houses in Vienna are among the oldest in the world.

Austria is a popular tourist destination in Europe for many reasons. Every season is just exciting and perfect. People with different preferences can find something to discover and enjoy; admiring the banks of the Danube, the slopes of the Alps, the folds of the North Bohemian Forest, or simply strolling through medieval castles. A spark of Austria has been ignited, and the fire of adventure is roaring and soaring in the heart of Europe.

BILATERAL RELATIONS WITH SAUDI ARABIA The Austro-Hungarian Empire maintained diplomatic presence in Jeddah nearly until the outbreak of World War I. The bilateral relations with Saudi Arabia picked up considerably after World War II, which led to the establishment of official diplomatic relations in 1957 and the opening of the Austrian embassy in Jeddah seven years later. In the 1960s, there was a growing engagement of Austrian businesses and insti-

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tutions in many endeavors such as infrastructure projects of the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia brought the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) headquarters to Vienna and provided financial support to establish Vienna as the third official seat of the United Nations in 1979.

In the mid-1980s, Austria moved its embassy to Riyadh, where the current embassy premises were built in 1997.

The 2000s saw the conclusion of bilateral treaties on the protection of investments, cooperation in business, trade, and technology, and an agreement on avoiding double taxation. Saudi Arabia has traditionally been Austria's main export destination and trading partner in the Middle East.

In 2019, exports to Saudi Arabia amounted to €402.6 million; imports from the Kingdom amounted to €29.1 million.

Over the years, Austrian companies operating in Saudi Arabia have gained a reputation as specialists in certain areas, particularly in water transport and desalination, transport, railway technology, infrastructure, renewable energy sources, environmental, and medical technology.

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In addition to political and economic collaboration, the diplomatic ties between the two countries have been constantly strengthened by regular mutual visits of heads of state and government ministers. More recently, in June 2021, Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan visited Austria and discussed bilateral relations as well as the most important common international issues with the Austrian leadership. Former Austrian federal minister for foreign affairs, Alexander Schallenberg, who in the meantime has been appointed federal chancellor (prime minister), met with Prince Faisal and the Saudi minister of investment Al-Falih in Riyadh and Al-Ula for another round of cordial and fruitful talks in September of this year.

With the dynamic social and cultural changes taking place in the Kingdom during the reign of King Salman, Saudi Arabia and Austria are working on a wide range of new cooperation projects in areas such as the green economy and cultural initiatives. The aim of the cultural activities of the Austrian embassy in Riyadh is to represent Austria as a modern cultural country and promote intercultural dialogue.

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Where To Go Take a guided tour of the Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna. Considered Austria's most popular tourist attraction, the palace boasts stately imperial ceremonial halls, charming gardens, and the nearby Schönbrunn Zoo, the oldest zoo worldwide.

See some of Vienna's most grandiose buildings at the Ringstrasse (ring road) circles, the city's first district and home to the State Opera, Parliament, and City Hall.

Climbing the Schlossberg Hill and Clocktower is a must for first-time visitors to Graz, Styria. There are three different ways to do it: climbing the 260-step stairs, taking the lift, or riding the Schlossbergbahn funicular.

The Hohensalzburg Fortress in Salzburg is a short but steep walk from the city center. Built in 1077, the fort has the Princes' Chambers with furnishing dating back to the early 1500s. While in Salzburg, one must visit Mozart's home at "Hagenauer Haus" at No. 9 Getreidegasse.

A fascinating world of crystals awaits tourists at the Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens, Tirol. There are 17 separate crystal chambers, including a giant crystal dome and an infinity mirror room. Outside, a cloud made of 800,000 crystals has been captivating guests since its installation.

What To Do Reach a summit and see the world from the top by hiking and climbing some of Austria's famous mountains and platforms: Dachstein in Upper Austria, Pyramidenkogel in Carinthia, Hohe Wand Sky Walk in Lower Austria, and Adlerhorst Viewing Platform in Tirol.

Enjoy hours of fun at the Vienna Wurstelprater, the oldest amusement park dating back to the time of the Austrian Empire. Try some of the park's highest rides: Prater Turm, Freefall Tower, Space Shot, and Wiener Riesenrad (Ferris wheel).

Live in a fairytale for a moment and discover Austria's ice caves: the Obir Stalactite Cave in Carinthia, Mammut Cave, and Koppenbrüller Cave in Dachstein to the Giant Ice Caves, the world's largest ice cave, in Werfen. Also, visit the salt mines of Hallein and Altausee.

Ski in snow-sure pistes and unrivaled aprés ski. With its 305- kilometer of slopes and 88 lifts, Ski Alberg is the largest ski resort in the country. The versatile Skivelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental ski resort is ideal for beginners and professionals alike.

Discover the mighty Danube River. A river that covers an area of 2,889 kilometers. Stretching from Germany to the Black Sea, the Danube is considered Europe's lifeline. Travel along the Blue Danube and enjoy Linz, Krems, Abbey of Melk, the Ruin and Abbey Church of Dürnstein. One-day cruise ships for sightseeing are also available.

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Interview with the Ambassador

Georg Pöstinger

Embassy of the Republic of Austria ALEXANDER WOODMAN

In January 2019, His Excellency Georg Pöstinger was appointed as the Austrian Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Before this position, the Ambassador Pöstinger worked as deputy inspector general of the foreign ministry of Austria. From 2010 to 2014, Mr. Pöstinger served as deputy ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Ambassador has also served in Stockholm and Tokyo.

Saudi Arabia is Austria's main export destination and trading partner in the Middle East. How do you envision the future opportunities for a trade partnership that will foster the growth of trade?

Saudi Arabia is a country showing a very dynamic development and huge upside potential. In line with Vision 2030, there are future opportunities in Green Tech, infrastructure, healthcare, tourism, and the entertainment sector.

Especially when it comes to environmental technologies, recycling, water management, and desalination, Austrian companies offer world-leading system solutions and know-how. Furthermore, Austria has a number of hidden champions in urban technologies, smart cities, and ample expertise in the healthcare sector. Austria is well known as a tourism destination – but not only tourism as such, but training and education in the hospitality sector can be an area of cooperation between our two countries.

During the state visit to Austria, the Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs, Prince Faisal bin Farhan discussed bilateral relations and common international issues with Austrian leaders. What are the global challenges where two sides can make a change?

I am more than happy to say that His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan met Austrian federal minister for foreign affairs Alexander Schallenberg more recently in Riyadh and took him on a trip to imbibe the beauty and spirit of Al-Ula and Madai'in Saleh. Amongst others, the ministers agreed that international terrorism and extremist ideologies keep

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posing a growing global security threat that can only be overcome by cooperation between international partners.

Furthermore, Saudi Arabia potentially has a key role in renewable energy and global mobility, where Austria and the European Union need to forge innovative partnerships with our friends to fight climate change.

One of the main goals of Saudi Vision 2030 is an oil-diversified economy. Aside from oil, what do you consider as Saudi Arabia's key asset for its future prosperity?

We consider Saudi Arabia a key country in the region because of its geographical location between Europe, Asia, and Africa, and given the excellent infrastructure and human capital the country already has. Moreover, Saudi Arabia wields considerable cultural influence and soft power as the birthplace of Islam and the home of the Two Holy Mosques. In my opinion, the more the Kingdom can harness these structural advantages, the more jobs could be created in future-oriented areas such as the service industry, tourism, or finance. In view of the Kingdom's topography and climatic conditions, one cannot help but imagine a very bright future for renewable energy sources in this country. Last but not least, Saudi people are very fond of technology that could help them compete in fields that will mark our future lives, such as the Internet of Things or Artificial Intelligence.

As of 2019, over 132,300 Saudis visited Austria, becoming the most sizeable visitor group from the Gulf region. What makes Austria an attractive tourism destination specifically for Saudis? Why should Saudis visit Austria?

There are a lot of reasons I could think of why Saudis should travel to Austria. However, let me try to be as concise as possible: starting with the lush green one will find in all corners of Austria and which Saudis sometimes seem to yearn for. The incredible mountain sceneries, where we

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practice our national sport skiing and which keep impressing even the people who have grown up in Austria. The physical, cultural heritage of the country which was mentioned for the first time 1025 years ago and which is dotted with churches, monasteries, castles, and palaces; our capital Vienna from where the Habsburg family ruled large parts of Europe for centuries and which still is a business and diplomatic hub in Central Europe. Without delving too much into clichés, one cannot ignore the fact that composers like Mozart, Beethoven, Mahler, or Berg, to name just a few, made Vienna the world's capital of music where one can enjoy wonderful concerts at Vienna State Opera or Musikvereinssaal. However, it is not only the capital that offers a preserved architectonic ensemble: Graz, Linz, Innsbruck, and Salzburg – well-known for Salzburg Festival – offer picturesque historical centers and should be on any visitor's tour in Austria. Our pastry is renowned worldwide – the French call pastry "viennoiserie" for a reason - and restaurants serve a wide array of hearty fare in the whole country. Those who might miss access to the sea in a landlocked country like Austria should look at our impressive lakes in the south of Austria or the Alps. The Austrian hospitality industry is among the global world champions in tourism and is continuously adapting to the needs and wishes of the growing numbers of our foreign guests.

What do you think of DQ and its community? What would be your observation on multilateral diplomacy?

For us diplomats, life in the DQ feels like living in a village with Oud Square or Kindy Plaza being our village square.

Once you have passed the security checks, you already

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feel that special homey atmosphere. The proximity of other embassies saves us a lot of time and hassle in Riyadh's busy traffic and makes it easier to attend diplomatic receptions or events. Moreover, the DQ can boast of having the most beautiful parks in the capital, or arguably in the whole country. They are oases of peace and relaxation, which help DQ's inhabitants to recharge batteries in the evening or during the weekend.

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

I divide my time in the daytime between the Austrian residence and the embassy, fortunately adjacent. An ambassador's work does not stop at the end of the office hours but often brings me to receptions and dinners with fellow diplomats and my Saudi friends in the evening. If my sometimes too busy agenda permits, I enjoy going for long walks with Saudi friends along the walking trail or have a coffee or lunch at Oud Square. Playing the piano is another pastime that relaxes and inspires me.

Embassy of the Republic of Austria Abdullah Al Sahmi Street, Al Idrisi, Safarat, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 9:00 AM - 12:00 AM Closed on Fridays and Saturdays Contact No: +966 11 480 1217 Website: http://www.bmeia.gv.at/en/embassy/ riyadh.html

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Live With Leisure At

Riyadh Marriott DQ Take a moment out of your busy days and reward yourself with a leisurely time at Marriott Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter where entertaining experiences await.

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he hustle and bustle of the city can take its toll on most of us, and with the grueling traffic and high-pressure jobs we endure, we all deserve a worry-free activity that will relax our minds and refresh our train of thought. At the Marriott Riyadh DQ, they offer a variety of activities that will welcome you to spend a day with your family or a night out with friends - without having to leave the comforts of the Diplomatic Quarter.

Brunch at Goji Restaurant DQ’s popular brunch spot is back as the weekend brunch of Goji Restaurant was relaunched last October 8th.

Guests can make their way to the generous selection of international and local cuisines for a worry-free dine-in experience. An array of salads, cold mezzes, main courses, freshly grilled meats, and dessert stations are spread out across the restaurant with the staff ready to assist you through the buffet options. It is available every Friday and Saturday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM and it’s best to call and reserve your tables ahead of time.

Kids’ Entertainment After being cooped up at home by online schooling all week long, bring your kids to enjoy several outdoor activities at

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the Kids’ Entertainment hosted at the poolside of the hotel every Friday. The program includes some fun face painting, balloon making, games, and amusing presentations from clowns and cartoon characters to dance and cheer to. A

big screen TV is also set up in the background for added entertainment. Kids get their own buffet and beverage selection to keep them energized. This weekly event is held in conjunction with the brunch at Goji Restaurant.

10:10 Lounge As the evening rolls in, there’s more fun waiting for the adults at the 10:10 Lounge. Indulge in their theme nights, held with a vibrant ambiance featuring interactive live musical performances from either violinists, oud musicians, and DJs who’ll certainly raise the weekend vibe. The festivities start from 6:00 PM - 12:00 AM and while lounging, guests can enjoy snacks, fresh beverages, live cooking stations, and desserts. Shisha is also exclusively available at the 10:10 Lounge.

Marriott Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter 6781 Abdullah Alsahmi St, Al Safarat, Riyadh 12511 For inquiries/reservations: Tel No: +966 59 159 1728

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From L-R: Darrell McGraw, President of AmChamKSA Eastern Province Chapter; Tarik Solomon, Chairman of AmChamKSA; Jesse Lapierre, Vice-President of AmChamKSA Eastern Province Chapter

FEATURE

AmChamKSA:

The Success of Trade and Business ALEXANDER WOODMAN

A discussion on how the American Chamber of Commerce in Saudi Arabia is helping its members connect, grow, and prosper in the Kingdom with Chairman, Mr. Tarik Solomon.

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ver 40 years ago, the leaders of the American business community in Riyadh established the American Business Group of Riyadh, which transformed into the American Chamber of Commerce in Saudi Arabia (AmChamKSA) in December 2020. It is one of the largest independent and not-for-profit bilateral trade associations in the Kingdom, offering exclusive opportunities to foster strong relationships between American and Saudi organizations and leadership by promoting trade development, commerce, and investment.

various roles giving him broad exposure to U.S.-Saudi trade relations.

AmChamKSA welcomes both American and other international companies interested in supporting, engaging, and partnering with the American business community in Saudi Arabia. Investments in Saudi Arabia create new opportunities for the American business community to participate in the business ecosystem of the Kingdom aligned with Vision 2030. Supporting these initiatives is key to AmChamKSA’s programming.

I had an opportunity to discuss the upcoming AmChamKSA initiatives and potential collaborative opportunities with Mr. Tarik Solomon.

Tarik Solomon was appointed Chairman to the American Chamber of Commerce Saudi Arabia at the end of 2019. Mr. Solomon has been involved in the Chamber for many years as a member, committee leader, board member, and Vice Chairman in previous years. He first came to Saudi Arabia as a student in 1994 with his family and has since worked in

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For the past 10 years, Mr. Solomon has worked in the defense and aerospace sectors as Director of International Business Development at Shamis Technologies, a leading Saudi Arabian tactical communications and automotive company representing American products and providing a range of specialized, secured communications solutions and engineering services.

How was the transition of the American Business Group of Riyadh to becoming the American Chamber of Commerce in Saudi Arabia?

The American Business Group of Riyadh (ABGR) was established over forty years ago to serve as a platform for American businesses to network, socialize, and align their engagement efforts. While the transition formalized the organization by joining an enormous network of global professionals representing American business interests worldwide and improving our member benefits, the foundation built by ABGR continues to be honored.

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Today, we are seizing the opportunity to unite the voice of the American business community in Saudi Arabia by joining forces with the American Business Association Eastern Province and American Business Group of Jeddah. These organizations will undergo the same transition maturing into chapters of the AmChamKSA and creating a larger, unified and more robust national organization.

Our presence and growth in the Kingdom serve as a testament of the unified strength of the American business community present in the Kingdom and the desire to strengthen our relationship with Saudi entities. As a business association, we advocate for increased cooperation and focus on promoting innovation and leadership across key economic sectors. AmChamKSA seeks to collaborate on important issues for the American business community, including enhancing legal protection for investors, providing greater transparency in commercial regulations, developing opportunities that support green economies, and supporting the localization of products and services supporting the aims of Saudi Vision 2030.

What is the Chairman’s vision for AmChamKSA? What does the organization hope to achieve?

It is a very exciting time to launch the American Chamber of Commerce in Saudi Arabia and represents a massive stepchange and demonstrates the seriousness of the two business communities developing even closer ties than before.

AmChamKSA is in the Kingdom to advance Vision 2030 objectives by targeting and encouraging investment in new and innovative sectors that solve real problems for people.

We plan to accomplish this by providing forums for the American and Saudi private and public sectors to interact and exchange constructive dialogue. In addition, we will offer resources and information providing best practices that will help companies cultivate and orchestrate opportunities for themselves and their local partners.

The American Chamber of Commerce in Saudi Arabia prioritizes boosting trade and investment cooperation with the Kingdom. It is our vision is to be the principal advocate and leader for the American business community, promoting our bilateral trade relationship and fostering the already strong ties between two great nations.

Who gets involved with AmCham? How can interested individuals and parties get involved?

AmChamKSA welcomes any new members interested in promoting American business interests in the Kingdom and participating in the bilateral commercial relationship. We have three membership categories for corporate members - Quincy Circle, Corporate, and Affiliate - and an individual member category. Members are not required to be American citizens as long as they have an interest in supporting American businesses.

More information on the categories and the associated benefits can be found at: www.amchamksa.com/ membership Interested members can also reach out to our Head of Member Relations, Nicola Losada-Phillips, at: membership@amchamksa.com

Tarik Solomon speaks to AmChamKSA Board of Directors, the U.S. Embassy’s Commercial Section, and American business representatives in the Eastern Province at its Chapter Charter Signing Ceremony.

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From L-R: Darrell McGraw, Tarik Solomon, and Jesse Lapierre.

What services does the AmChamKSA offer to their members?

AmChamKSA member benefits include various events and engagement opportunities, advocacy, advertising opportunities, national representation, and the ability to connect with our sector committees. These committees are the impetus for advocacy, engagement with industry decision-makers, and business interests, and include the following: Trade & Industry; Arts, Culture & Entertainment; Women in Business; International Cooperation; Healthcare; Infrastructure; and Professional Services.

Please reflect on the Women in Business Committee of AmChamKSA. Launched in January 2020, the Women in Business Committee promotes the strategic importance of advancing and empowering women. With the strategic priorities of

promoting diversity and inclusion, establishing relationships with those organizations with similar interests, and engaging in bilateral collaborations for women’s professional development goals outlined in Vision 2030, the Women in Business Committee promotes women’s professional career development in Saudi Arabia.

What are the most recent projects that you would like to share with our readers and what is your vision for future projects?

Recently, we joined forces with Jeddah (Western Province) and the Eastern Province to open AmChamKSA chapters in both regions. We put together a framework to enable the growth of chapters across the country under the AmChamKSA umbrella with hopes to expand to NEOM and other regions as the Saudi economy continues to evolve.

Back Row, L-R: Anne Simmons-Benton, Joan Betros, Nadine Zeidan, Shamis Mohamud, Allison Nour, Tamara Scott, Amanda Tafunai, Jaime Stansbury, Dina Abu Farha, Megumi Ishimoto; Front Row, L-R: Chargé D’Affaires Martina Strong and Virginia Littlejohn

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General Membership Event for AmChamKSA

Additionally, our sector committees represent a variety of industries and host engaging programming and events.

AmChamKSA’s Women in Business Committee partnered with the Atlantic Council and its “EmpowerME” initiative, as well as the U.S. Mission to Saudi Arabia and Quantum Leaps, with AmChamKSA members ExxonMobil and UPS as sponsors, to create and execute a series on “IGNITING Women’s Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Saudi Arabia”

for American and Saudi business leaders. This series highlighted the impact that the American business community hopes to have on furthering investment and business opportunities in Saudi Arabia.

The membership breakfast series is something that has been popular amongst your AmChamKSA members. What does the upcoming programming look like for this series?

AmChamKSA has maintained a longstanding tradition with our membership breakfasts that play host to a number of leading industry and government speakers covering a range of topics including current affairs, key economic and social developments as well as a variety of diverse subject matter that is of interest to our membership.

Starting in 2022, each of our seven committees will be assigned a specific month to host these breakfasts with a topic of interest open to all of our members that reflects on the committee's respective industry. This brings AmChamKSA members into the key conversations and provides the ability to network across industries.

Media/press inquiry contacts below: Hana Nemec Head of Communications American Chamber of Commerce Saudi Arabia Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Mobile: +966 53 847 7638 Email: hana.nemec@amchamksa.com Website: www.amchamksa.com Twitter: www.twitter.com/amchamksa LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/ amchaminksa Jaime Stansbury, Executive Director of AmChamKSA

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ALSARH: Business Management Solutions From A-Z

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ompanies have a lot of things on their plate, from organizing, directing, planning, staffing, and managing.

This is where the Business Management Solutions of Alsarh Travel comes in: to help companies in their workflow, processes, and services with efficient advance online solutions. With Alsarh BMS, complete business travel management and logistics solutions from A-Z are covered.

With Alsarh’s more than 40 years of inclusive experience in the travel market, they can provide your business deep insights as well as effective and efficient travel purchasing and travel management experiences. The hands-on operational approach of Alsarh fully understands clients’ objectives and employ both strategic and tactical ways to deliver on their promise of credible, determined, and honest services.

The new Alsarh BMS Office is located in the Diplomatic Quarter (DQ) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for easy and convenient access. It was established to fulfill the travel needs of both for-profit and no-profit corporates, government and diplomatic authorities both in and out the DQ. Alsarh BMS’ services include the preparation of budget for business trips, projects, and training programs. Each project is provided an exclusive manager and staff from site supervisors, coordinators, and translators for shortand long-term programs and events. A call and command center will also be provided to communicate and control the projects. Events that need people from abroad are giv-

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Alsarh Travel Al Fazari Square, Diplomatic Quarter Business Management Solutions Phone No.: 011-4944333 Email: bmsinfo@alsarh.com.sa

en support from visa assistance, flight bookings, hotel and venue hall reservations, and transportation services.

On the ground, event planning is one of Alsarh’s specialty.

This includes renting conference centers or exhibition halls, catering, and also crowd management for large events especially during this pandemic. Alsarh BMS also takes care of the smart reservation system for these happenings.

Alsarh has a team of professional staff that has a wide experience in managing businesses’ projects trips, and events.

They are ready to move in between cities in the Kingdom to fulfill tasks; and can be divided to smaller groups to attend to manage responsibilities more efficiently. Alsarh consultants have an extensive understanding of travel agency operations, processes, and customer service. Your business is assured of workable recommendations and successful projects.

Alsarh provides support in a very flexible way, no matter what your business needs, whether at the start of a project or in the middle of an ongoing one. Just ask and they will send information or deliver a proposal.

Alsarh BMS believes in delivering the right results for their clients. They identify how to improve services and reduce cost in the process.

With Alsarh BMS, your business has a clear way forward, and will definitely go in the right direction.

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Entertaining Dinners in the City LAURINE GAYLE VALES

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ork hard, play hard in these restaurants that not only offer good food but also good entertainment; where you can discover and show your artistic side, eat tasty fare, listen and groove to trendy music, and unwind after a hectic week.

Syrup Lounge Syrup Lounge is a co-arting space where people who are into music, arts, and culture gather. At this place, individuals can work and showcase their talents while meeting other artists. Your month will surely be filled with their different events such as Art Day where artists can show their masterpieces in all types of medium; a HipHop Night for all lovers of the genre; a Karaoke Night where you can sing your heart out, and their famed Open Mic Night made for talents of all kinds be it singing, dancing, acting, and more.

Chifty Expect a grand time at Chifty! Have a feast in their wide array of international cuisines curated by their “master chefs”.

Shisha lovers can choose from their quality selections of the finest tobacco with delectable flavors and lounge at their outdoor space. A nightly DJ and live entertainment will complete your night at Chifty.

Sunday – Saturday 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM; 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM; 7:00 PM – 12:00 AM 5802 6134 Makkah Al Mukarramah Branch Rd., Umm Al Hamam Al Sharqi, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia @chifty.sa

Sundays to Saturdays 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Unit 01, 9038 Prince Faisal Bin Bandar Bin Abdul Aziz Road, An Narjis, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia @syruplounge

Villa Palma Treat yourself to an elevated dining experience at Villa Palma.

Villa Palma’s Mediterranean dishes transport its guests to Greece, Spain, Italy, and France. Prepare to be amazed every Monday as they stage a special theme night accompanied by live music. A magical masquerade night, anyone?

Mondays to Wednesdays 7:00 PM – 11:30 PM; Thursdays to Saturdays: 2:00 PM – 11:30 PM Abdullah Bin Hamdan, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia @villa_palma

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FEATURE

Myazu Welcome to the “land of plenty”, welcome to Myazu, a contemporary Japanese restaurant that takes their guests to a gastronomic adventure like no other. Their Executive Chefs use traditional techniques to create Japanese modern dishes made from the freshest and finest ingredients. The entertainment hub of the venue, the Myazu Arts, has the cocktail bar, DJ counter, and acts as an intimate VIP area for high profile guests and private gatherings.

Sundays to Saturdays 12:30 PM – 12:30 AM Musad Bin Jalawi, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia @myazusaudi

Islas Resto and Grill Experience the island vibes of the Philippines at Islas Resto and Grill. Guests can choose from a long list of Filipino delicacies from soup, appetizers, main entrees, desserts, and their famed Island Boodle Fight which is a mix of their best dishes traditionally served in banana leaves that’s best for sharing with family and friends. A Filipino feast cannot be complete without music. Sing-along to favorite tunes with their acoustic performers.

Sundays to Saturdays 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM 1st Floor Aljazeera Shopping Center, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia @islas_resto_grill

David Burke Restaurant Celebrity chef David Burke owns 15 restaurants in the USA and now, he has brought his restaurant to two trendy plazas in Riyadh: Riyadh Front and The Zone. David Burke, named Entrepreneur of the Year 2021 and a pioneer in “new American cuisine”, is known for his fascination with ingredients and the art of food. These are evident in his creative, delicious dishes. David Burke Restaurants will also start hosting their live music events starting this October. Their musical nights will surely be events to remember.

Checkout their social media for their Live Music schedule.

Riyadh Front and The Zone, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia @davidburkeksa

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LIVE MUSIC KICKS OFF AT DAVID BURKE RESTAURANTS SALMA SIDDIQUA

David Burke Restaurant in Saudi Arabia starts a season of live music and entertainment after a successful Saudi National Day celebration.

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n celebration of the 91st Saudi National Day, the David Burke Restaurant in Riyadh Front hosted a Music Night with live musical performances for their guests. The evening started off with music played by Charlene and the Black Gold Band and local DJ named Jason, creating a festive vibe that rocked throughout the venue. As the national songs were played, the crowd erupted with joy and started dancing to the music. The passion of patriotism reverberated in the hearts of the people in their collective soul, music, and dance.

David Burke Restaurant was vibrant with its spotlights illuminating the way to a promise of an amazing dining spectacle. Arabic coffee (qahwa) and dates were served at the entrance to the rooftop where a panoramic view of Riyadh Front awaits guests. The dinner, which is the star of the event, had a set menu. The main courses which included Roasted Chicken, Mediterranean Branzino, and the famous grilled Angus Sirloin steak. Desserts were also in theme with the National Day celebration.

The festive spirit of the Saudi National Day was ignited in the hearts of every Saudi and expats alike on September 23 and the David Burke event surely added fireworks to it!

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For those who missed out on the National Day Celebrations, David Burke Restaurant has more in store with an exciting lineup of live music events. On October 23, a special performance of Charlene, Nirvana (electro drums), and DJ Jason (ritm & sound) will be held at the Riyadh Front branch. There will also be a Jazz Night on October 30, 2021 at The Zone branch.

Truly, David Burke Restaurant is not only bringing new American cuisine with twists of Middle Eastern flare to Riyadh, they're bringing along music and fun too!

David Burke Restaurant Riyadh Front Mall – Gate 3 Opening Hours: Sun-Thurs: 1:00 PM-12:00 AM Fri-Sat: 1:00 PM-1:00 AM Contact No: +966 50 044 0202 Website: davidburke-ksa.com Instagram: @davidburkeksa

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Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic Dr. Marlie Abou Jaoude OB-GYN Specialist

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he aim of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic is to provide care for women throughout their life from adolescence to reproductive age until menopause.

Your health is our priority. We provide comprehensive, innovative, and exceptional healthcare services.

First, we start with the prevention of human papillomavirus (HPV) with counseling about the virus during adolescence and giving the vaccine to girls from 11 years old till 26 years old.

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couraging natural breastfeeding and supporting healthy weight loss.

Third, we also provide convenient medical services for women with gynecological problems such as irregular periods, heavy menstruation, pelvic pain, and abnormal vaginal discharge. We are dedicated to diagnose, manage, and treat all female reproductive pathologies. Moreover, we work eagerly in a multidisciplinary approach to serve you and ensure your wellbeing with inter- and/or intrabranches referrals.

Second, we emphasize screening on a regular basis for breast cancer through routine annual breast exams for women before the age of 40 and ordering mammography annually for women starting 40 years old and above.

Fourth, we offer ultrasound using state-of-the-art technology and private sessions with OB-Gyne for discussion, instructions, and guidance in accordance to results.

We also do screening for cervical cancer with routine pap smear every 3 years for sexually-active women above 21 years old until 65 years of age, and if indicated, we do advanced HPV testing with HPV genotyping every 5 years.

Finally, we strive to provide the best care for both the mother and the fetus during pregnancy. We work hard to follow up the pregnancy on a regular basis with monthly antenatal visits. We also provide the most advanced noninvasive prenatal testing as needed.

Counseling for women’s health is the main key for a better life. We do preconception counseling to screen for risk factors in pregnancy and also postnatal counseling to empower new mothers in seeking appropriate care, en-

To sum up, our clinic is a safe place to ask questions about any obstetrics and gynecology concern. We are looking forward to seeing you in our clinic.

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The Family Medicine Clinic Dr. Gracia Hamadeh Family Medicine Senior Specialist

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r. Gracia Hamadeh is the primary physician of the Family Medicine Clinic of Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Center. Being an advocate of holistic mental and physical health, Dr. Hamadeh will utilize her clinic to encourage prevention of cardiovascular disease, control of disease progression, patient health education, and mental health awareness.

In running her clinic, Dr. Hamadeh is keen on following core competencies set out by the American Council for Graduate Medical Education in Family Medicine, namely: patient care, medical knowledge, practice-based learning and improvement, interpersonal and communication skills, professionalism, and system-based practice.

The Family Medicine Clinic welcomes patients who are 15 years of age and older. Below are the clinical services that can be availed at the Family Medicine Clinic:

5. Smoking Cessation Treatment 6. Annual Health Maintenance 7. Marriage and Driver's License Certificates Below are the most common health conditions in Primary Care: 1. Hypertension 2. Upper Respiratory Tract Infection 3. Diabesity (Diabetes +Obesity) 4. Headaches and Migraines 5. Fatigue and Malaise 6. Back Pain 7. Health Maintenance 8. Abdominal Pain 9. Dizziness 10. Depression or Anxiety

1. Prevention & Treatment of: ▪ Hypertension ▪ Obesity ▪ Endocrine Disorders ▪ Gastrointestinal Disorders ▪ Respiratory Disorders ▪ Mental Health Disorders 2. Travel Health 3. Pre-employment Health Check-Up 4. Vaccinations

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SHOP

6 MUST-VISIT Concept Stores in Riyadh AEVAN CARO

Beneath the bustling shopping districts of Riyadh exists a new trend of enticing retail experiences for the classy, the artsy, and the sassy.

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he concept store fad has emerged into the modern shopping era of the Kingdom’s capital. Its wide variety of well-curated items have immensely attracted the local shopping scene as it caters to a diverse lifestyle ranging from the newest trends in fashion to the most unique art pieces from both local and international designers and artists.

We have gathered six of the must-visit concept stores in Riyadh.

Personage Personage is known for fusing luxury shopping, good food and drinks, and a venue for extracting those creative juices.

Its first level, which is called Vim, is a fascinating shop which houses carefully-selected on-trend apparel, perfumes, jewelries, accessories, and footwear. A one-stop shop where you can chill while shopping, Ooze, a cafe on its second level, allows their customers to loosen up with their delish lattes and desserts. An optimum experience for different events or array of meetings can be held at their top floor called Scheme. Personage is a true definition of taking the concept store idea to a different level.

Saturdays to Wednesdays 1:00 PM to 11:00 PM Thursdays 1:00 PM to 12:00 AM Fridays 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM Hittin, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia @personagesa

Sum+Things Sum+Things pretty much sums up things that creates a homey ambience – appetizing meals and astounding yet elegant home accessories. From stylish home décors such as porcelain vases, handblown glass pieces, and handmade tables to delicious pastas, salads, and desserts, all under one roof. In addition, it also has a well-filled library where you can quietly sit and read about decorating your homes. The sophisticated interiors of Sum+Things make every corner definitely worth exploring.

Sundays to Wednesdays 8:00 AM to 2:00 AM Thursdays to Saturdays 6:00 AM to 2:00 AM The Boulevard, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia @sumplusthings

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Pattern One of the crowd favorites is Pattern. The calm atmosphere brought by its soft ambient lights gives shoppers a peaceful and comfortable mood while browsing. Pattern is known for great and rare finds of different and unique brands of clothing, scents, accessories and Alchemy, its in-house coffee shop. With the vast selections of whatever you may need, or even may not need, one will surely never leave this place empty-handed.

Saturdays to Thursdays 9:00 AM to 12:00 AM Fridays 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM 8563 Prince Abdulaziz Ibn Musaid Ibn Jalawi St, Al Sulaimaniyah, 2874, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia @pattern_saudi Number Nine A challenge to find the newest and the trendiest is what keeps Number Nine going. Following the latest trend in fashion, while focusing more on local brands and designers, makes them unique from other concept stores. Embroidered abayas, Arabic design printed clothing, and Saudi culture inspired yoga mats are some of the good finds in this store.

Number Nine is inspired by unique concept stores from around the world and has been giving an exquisite shopping experience since 2016.

Sundays to Thursdays 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM Fridays to Saturdays 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM Fiorenza La Piazza, Takhassusi St, Al Mohammadiyyah, Riyadh 12364 and 3126 Prince Turki Ibn Abdulaziz Al Awwal Rd, 6571, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia @conceptno.9

Gallery Blu Gallery Blu encapsulates retail, arts, music, and whatnots from everywhere globally. Aiming to provide their shoppers the opportunity of collecting unique and limited pieces, Gallery Blu’s main products include special wall art pieces, limited edition designer leather goods and bags, rare coffee table books, and audio devices like earphones and speakers.

The hobby of collecting special and eccentric items which are not locally available has given Gallery Blu owners the motivation to put up their own store since December 2020.

Sundays to Saturdays 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM Takhassusi St, Al Mohammadiyyah, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia @galleryblu.sa

Stitch Since 2016, Stitch has been meticulously picking-out and curating well-established and known brands from all over the world. They offer a wide selection of the latest apparel, stylish accessories, newest footwear, and up-to-date tech goods. One thing the team behind Stitch values the most is the trust of their shoppers to whom they give 100% assurance for the authenticity of their products.

Sundays to Saturdays 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM The Zone, Takhassusi St, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia @stitchksa DQ LIVING MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2021

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Make it

GREEN NAUREEN AHMED

When it comes to national day fashion, one color reigns supreme: green. There are a lot of green hues to incorporate in your outfit and wear, not only to mark an important occasion, but also to celebrate the color’s relaxed vibe and hopeful spirit. From forest to mint to sage to evergreen, here are some of the best green in the world of highend and high street fashion.

Hermes Oran Sandals, SR 8,990

Gucci Aviator Sunglasses, SR 1,980

H&M Sweatpants, SR 119 Sweatshirt, SR 119

Lacoste Colourblock Cotton Pique Polo Shirt, SR 765

Michael Kors Leather Combat Boots, SR 1,780

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LV New Wave Chain Bag, SR 11,000 Lacoste Socks, SR 150

GG Marmont Caiman Belt, SR 5,100

LV Effluves Papillons Florales Symphonie Square, SR 2,210

Chika Mint Green and White Linen Abaya, SR 1,945

Nike SB Zoom Blazer Mid Premium, SR 479

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ARABIUS:

Learning the Language and Culture of Saudi Arabia ARLEN GARGAGLIANO

If you’re looking for an Arabic language program that fits your style and schedule, Arabius is the one. Despite Arabic being defined by the Foreign Service as one of the “super hard languages” for English speakers to learn, Arabius can make learning the language— and the culture—accessible and enjoyable.

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e love Saudi Arabia, and that’s why this company exists! - pronounces Matthew, prior to the start of my first Saudi dialect Arabic language lesson with Arabius. Matthew Buice, Joel Huffman, and Timothy Wilson shared a vision that encompasses language and cultural learning and they started their company in October of 2020, primarily for expats who live and work in the Kingdom. They launched the company in March 2021. Since then, they’ve grown tremendously. They now have 10 guides on their roster—with more about to be hired. They give about 64 language sessions, of between two to four hours, every week.

As far as scheduling, there’s flexibility, which makes it ideal.

In this case, the Arabic language-learning client decides on what fits their schedule best; sessions are offered both in person and online.

Matthew explains, “We allow the client to completely choose whether they want sessions online or in-person at our office in Takhussusi. They can even do a mix,” He adds that if the sessions are online, the guide—or teacher—still gives the session from their Takhusssusi office.

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DO Always Wanted to Learn Arabic I’m their ideal student. I’m in love with Saudi Arabia and the Arabic language. Yet despite spending three years in the Kingdom, my Arabic is stuck on a plateau of cavewoman level: I can direct an Uber driver, say hello, say it’s warm out, and say thank you, but not much more. The chance to dive in and get some more training has always been interesting to me. However, because of my schedule, the goal shifted. During COVID, I again attempted to study Arabic via Duo Lingo and some other programs. They didn’t work for me; I need context, attention, and feedback. Additionally, I wanted to focus on learning the Saudi dialect. Arabius provides all that—and more.

“We’re having them guide!”

Matthew’s referral of teachers as guides was a big clue as to how they approach their client-centered sessions. He says they use ICE methodology: immersive, customized and experiential.

Immersive: Guides use the target language; everything is in Arabic. As Matthew explained, “we’re putting your brain into Arabic” But it’s not just Arabic, it’s Saudi dialect.

Customized: Arabius Arabic focuses on a learner’s growth zone. Sessions are either private or semi-private, small enough to give people the individual focus and attention they require.

Experiential: Clients are active participants in their own learning. The Saudi guides develop enriching and entertaining resources to share language and cultural understanding, too. They build through repeated exposure and by constructing a relatable and sustainable foundation.

“Memorization is not the target.” Matthew declares, prior to putting me into a Level One session.

My Guide and My Zoom Arabius Session Riyadh, my guide, as Matthew had promised, seemed about as excited to teach me as I was to learn. My session, due to the fact that I’m currently in New York, was all online.

Though I confess I was initially not a supporter of online language learning, I was convinced otherwise!

Riyadh started with a broad smile, and a puppet. Despite my chomping at the bit to speak, I held back, and let Riyadh lead me. He greeted me, and I could respond with marhabba. He used gestures to direct my very basic responses.

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The class moved quickly into vocabulary expansion. Riyadh, using Google Jamboards, an online interactive learning program, switched up the screen with images of a napkin, plate, spoon and glass. This lesson was perfect for me because I love all things related to food—and serving!

Using visual imagery is fundamental in language teaching and learning. Associating a name with an item, showing it frequently and having the learner repeat in context, allows the learner to better ease into the language, without the pressure of rote memorization which can be stressful and ultimately not very productive. It’s also not as fun.

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But this was a lot of fun! My guide moved the images around, and pointed to them as he said each one, while encouraging me to repeat. He explained using other words that I couldn’t always understand, but I could get the meaning. He would ask me to repeat the words we were focusing on (spoon, glass, plate and napkin). When I didn’t pronounce a word correctly, he said it again, and I repeated—until I got it. For example, Riyadh moved the napkin, and I said mindil, and thanks to the interactive program, I could mark it on the screen. Any time I did something correctly, which I’m proud to say happened frequently, I was reassured by his encouragement.

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individual attention and accolades, my two “must haves” for language learning.

As far as my next steps, I would work to attain my 100 hours of Level One, which would send me on my learning journey of incorporating 1000+ words into my vocabulary, which is more than 10 times what my reach is right now.

It would, I’m sure, also help me build confidence so that I could move beyond my cavewoman level status of speaking! Also, I like the convenience of online, but would pair it with in-person sessions. One of each per week would be ideal for me.

Arabic Language Learning Plan of Action We know that time is fleeting, and now, more than ever, we recognize that we don’t know what the future holds.

However, we do realize that language learning gives us a new way to view the world and interact with it.

We went through the other items. It was fun—and challenging—but I was able to do it because he was scaffolding: building on the information he presented, and increasing the words as I became more comfortable. This technique of language construction, one that is learner focused, is ideal because it keeps the learner’s comfort level, and interest, high. Feeling comfortable and maintaining motivation are key components in any successful language-learning situation.

This was, as I recognized, just the beginning. But I was doing it. In the short span of my abbreviated lesson, I got my

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What I like about Arabius are the options, flexibility, the feedback, and the “roadmap” for learning. (Check out the methodology section of their website. This takes the daunting, and translates it into a clear vision.)

In conclusion, I welcome all to join me in learning Arabic with Arabius!

Arabius 7013 Takhassusi St Floor 1, Office #3, Riyadh 12341 For more information, visit/contact: \Website: www.arabius.com Email: enjoy@arabius.com Whatsapp: +966538511133 Social Media: @arabius_ksa

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YAUATCHA RIYADH: A Culinary Rendezvous of the East and West REINA TEJANO-BERINA

The spirit of local teahouses in China is alive and well within the corners of Yauatcha Riyadh -- a space where the authentic taste of dim sum and other Cantonese dishes are complemented by their own take on revered European desserts -- enjoyed over a cup of tea, of course.

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uilt on the second floor of Mode Al Faisaliah, Yauatcha Riyadh is overlooking the progress of Olaya Street with a powerful gaze. Their rooftop seating is a coveted spot with their almost al fresco ambiance accented by faux cherry blossom trees and the rest of the cityscape as its backdrop. The lights are lit low and the music is humming around us, along with the sounds of iced drinks being shaken and poured at the bar. The ambiance easily evokes a luxe, cosmopolitan vibe for those seeking an elegant night out or a place to bring business colleagues to.

erage menu called The Orchard List reflects their creative concoctions inspired by the techniques of American and European cocktails and their nod to the grand tradition of tea drinking in Asia. It is a must to try at least one of them.

It is still, however, a restaurant very well-rooted in Cantonese cuisine and culture. In the days where teahouses were considered as a social space, Yauatcha proves to be a modern manifestation of where people can partake in a dining activity and form connections over drinking tea and eating dim sum. With over 20 variations of dim sum and 24 flavors of tea to choose from, there’s never a wrong choice. Their dim sum is designed after the traditional offerings of the shu mai, har gau, cheung fun, venison puff, sticky rice in lotus leaf, and more - all made with the right ingredients that carries on the heritage - one bamboo steam basket at a time.

We started with a refreshing herbal beverage made with basil, green apple and lemon. Their distinctly curated bev-

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EAT

Our appetizer plate of Crispy Duck Salad arrived adorned with a stack of frisee, pomegranate, and microgreens.

But the star of the dish lay beneath it, awaiting to be unearthed. The duck has been braised for three hours, deep fried, and perfectly sliced - adding robust flavor and texture to the dish. It was then followed by the serving of the dim sum where we found ourselves transported to the streets of Hong Kong in an instant. The Scallop and Prawn Shu Mai was refined and luscious, topped with tobiko for a touch of opulence, while the Har Gau sat proud for its humble yet flavorful shrimp and bamboo shoot combination, and the Wild Mushroom Dumpling was a melody of shiitake, shimeji, and oyster mushrooms wrapped in one song. We

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also tried the Prawn and Bean Curd Cheung Fun, which was a shrimp tempura and tofu carefully wrapped in a translucent rice roll. The crispiness of the tempura paired well with the softness of the tofu and rice roll and its quick dip in soy sauce completed the flavor. There’s also their Winter Bao selection: steamed buns with either smoked wagyu beef, spicy soft shell crab, or crispy duck or chicken as fillings -- which some would call a Chinese version of a “burger” if you will.

For the main courses, the recipes were as classic as you can expect. The Beef in Black Pepper Sauce was tender, the Sweet and Sour Chicken had crispy slices of chicken, and the Wok-Tossed Tiger Prawn was plump and juicy. All those well-cooked dishes could stand in their own righteous pillars in Chinese cuisine, with the pak choy and jasmine rice supporting them in every bite.

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For dessert, the patisserie selection is broad and mostly French-inspired with a number of macaron flavors infused with Asian ingredients such as the Yuzu and Earl Gray Mandarin. Their most famous petits gateaux (little cake) is the Raspberry Delice, which is originally served in a velvety red coating but is currently pink in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Inside is a dark chocolate flavor with a hint of zest from the raspberry and a dollop of lychee panna cotta on the side - a complex yet light dessert to end the evening.

A short tour of the other features of the restaurant ensued after our meal with Yauatcha’s General Manager, Mr, Mehmet Sihlaroglu. He showed us the private dining areas that are suitable for small groups who would prefer a more tailored and intimate gathering. They had their own lights and sound system, a flat-screen TV, and a dedicated service team. Another space on the other end of the rooftop deck could also host a reception or event for companies or organizations with all the conveniences covered and assured.

For other restaurant offerings, they have the Lily and Pearl Set Menus for a business lunch, Afternoon High Tea available daily, and the Yum Cha Brunch during the weekends.

Yauatcha Riyadh aims to please with what they promise: a place where we can find distinctly Cantonese dim sum and dishes, unique drinks that are both innovative and traditional, signature desserts, and a dining experience that ensures guests will leave with a reason to come back again.

Yauatcha Riyadh Mode Al Faisaliah Olaya District-Prince Sultan Street, Riyadh Opening Hours: 12:00 PM - 11:30 PM (daily) Contact No.: 920006555 / 011 836 7999 Website: https://yauatcha.com/riyadh/ Instagram: @yauatchariyadh DQ LIVING MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2021

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THE DOCTOR IS IN Your common questions on winter-related health problems answered by Dr. Gracia Hamadeh (Family Medicine Senior Specialist), and Dr. Ali Chemali (Pediatric Specialist) at the Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Center — Diplomatic Quarter.

What are the most common health conditions, during winter, in Saudi Arabia?

A. Influenza The flu or seasonal flu is an infection causing fever, cough, and body pains. The most common type of flu is the "seasonal" flu. Prevention is key! Make sure you often wash your hands with soap and water, especially when outdoors and during this pandemic. During crowds, attempt to stay at a distance from suspected sick people and keep your surgical mask on.

And lastly, schedule your flu vaccine appointment around September to November at your nearest health center.

The flu vaccine remains the safest measure to protect you from severe degrees of flu illness and complications such as heart and lung diseases, and death.

B. Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease To keep your lungs healthy and your breathing at ease, make sure you follow these steps: ▪ Avoid smoking. If you smoke, get help from your doctor to quit.

▪D o not miss out on your regular walk or jog. Keep your rescue inhaler and a loose scarf around your neck with you before your workout. Exercise will improve your breathing.

▪ Keep your mattresses and pillows dust free.

▪ Get a dehumidifier or air conditioner to keep indoor air dry.

▪ If you are allergic to animals or insects, avoid exposure.

▪K eep your windows and doors closed whenever you can during pollen season.

▪ If you are under work or family stress, seek a doctor’s help.

▪G et your flu vaccine and your streptococcus vaccine after consulting with your doctor.

▪ I f you feel any palpitations, shortness of breath during rest or exercise, night sweats, fever or dizziness, do not hesitate to call your doctor to examine your chest and heart equally.

What conditions worsen during winter? And how can we manage them?

A. Heart and Brain-related Conditions It is well known that the total mortality in most populations is higher in winter than in summer, whereby the most common death cases are from coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular accidents, and respiratory diseases. Keep an eye on your regular medical checkups with your doctor to optimize treatment, improve lifestyle parameters, and prevent death during the cold weather.

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B. Mental Health Conditions Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that occurs during season change. Elderly people, especially, may have trouble leaving their house due to weather change, thus worsening their anxiety and preventing them from normal life routines. Keeping an eye on suicidal thoughts is wise. Help yourself or those suffering by practicing self-discipline with a daily routine of outdoor activities, ensuring proper natural lighting in the indoor areas, and maintaining social communication with family and friends.

C. Skin Conditions During cold weather, we worry about skin numbness and cuts in diabetes and skin infections and dryness in those with eczema and psoriasis. We recommend you keep your skin hydrated inside out. Get your stock of petroleum jelly, hand creams, and your favorite water bottle close by.

D. Joint Diseases Cold weather triggers joint pain or arthralgia in those suffering from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, calcific tendonitis, and other degenerative joint diseases.

Is it safe for young children to play outside like in parks during the winter? Kindly give some ways that we can follow to ensure their safety.

▪ Layer up! Bitter cold can cause frostbite. Dress your child in several layers, and make sure their head, neck, and hands are covered. Dress babies and young children in one more layer than an adult would wear.

▪ Play it safe. Even when roads are closed to traffic, it’s not safe to play or sled in the street. Visibility may be limited due to fog on the roads making braking difficult.

▪ Check in on warmth. Before kids head outside, tell them to come inside if they get wet or if they’re cold. Then keep watching them and checking in. They may want to continue playing outside even if they are wet or cold.

▪ Keep them hydrated. In drier winter air, kids lose more water through their breath. Offer plenty of water, and try giving them warm drinks and soup.

▪ Prevent nosebleeds. If your child suffers from minor winter nosebleeds, use a cold-air humidifier in their room.

Saline nose drops can help keep their nose moist.

▪ Get trained and equipped. For children to avoid injuries, teach them how to do the activity safely.

DQ LIVING MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2021

KSCDR & Boeing Launch Prince Sultan bin Salman Individuals with Disabilities Education and Awareness Program ALEXANDER WOODMAN

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n October 14, 2021, Boeing-King Salman Center for Disability Research (KSCDR) launched “Prince Sultan bin Salman Individuals with Disabilities Education and Awareness Program,” under the patronage of HRH Prince Sultan bin Salman, Chairman of Board of Trustees of KSCDR. In the presence of Dr. Ola Abusukkar, Executive Director of KSCDR and her team, HRH Prince Sultan welcomed Sir Michael Arthur, President of Boeing International, Engineer Ahmed Jazzar, the President of Boeing Saudi Arabia, and their delegations.

The program aims to spread awareness and educate the community in all its segments by providing specialized content on each category of disability, causes of disability, how to deal with them, and link the gap between individuals with disabilities and society. The training program will focus on seven categories of disability: autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disabilities, speech disorders, deaf and hearing impaired, blindness and visual impairment, motor disorders, hyperactivity disorder and distraction.

field. This inclusive and holistic approach will improve the way society interacts with people with disabilities, thereby reducing pressure on their families and changing knowledge and attitudes towards them.

In an exclusive interview with DQ Living magazine, HRH Prince Sultan bin Salman expressed the pride and privilege of partnering with Boeing: "The KSCDR works only with exceptional partners, who believe in what we believe. Boeing is an exceptional partner who believed in our ideas and became a partner in a very complex mission. I consider this as a privilege."

HRH Prince Sultan underlined that there are many opportunities specifically for disabled people in this fast and technologically evolving world: "KSCDR wants to be at the forefront of these scientific and research breakthroughs.

We can use technology to make the world a better place

“Prince Sultan bin Salman Individuals with Disabilities Education and Awareness Program,” is envisioning to establish partnerships with Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, and other beneficiary institutions, which will allow the dissemination of information and education among different groups of society and cities. An additional goal is to educate Boeing employees about the characteristics of people with disabilities and how to work with them. The fourth objective of the program is the training of experts in the disability

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for people with disabilities and ultimately change their lives for better."

Reflecting on the mission of KSCDR, HRH Prince Sultan made a visionary statement: "Years ago, when King Salman believed in my idea that through the center we could make a change, this was our first breakthrough. I am proud that the center was founded in the Diplomatic Quarter, which is very near and dear to my heart as I have come a long way with DQ. I witnessed the opening of the KSCDR, the Saudi Tourism Commission, and most recently, the Saudi Space Commission.”

Sir Michael Arthur, President of Boeing International, on the question about the importance of Boeing-KSCDR partnership, answered: "Boeing has been a part of Saudi society for over seven decades. We are privileged to work with KSCDR, particularly with HRH Prince Sultan and his team.

One of Boeing's goals is to work with underprivileged people, joining them to the mainstream society and workforce, which is consistent with the mission of KSCDR." In 2019, Boeing joined The Valuable 500 global campaign.

When asked how this campaign can reshape the idea of disability among Saudis, Sir Michael Arthur answered: "Boeing leaders made their commitment to disability inclusion by joining The Valuable 500, which is a global campaign that strives to place disability at the top of business agendas.

The aim of Valuable 500 is to put disability on the leadership agenda of at least 500 large, multinational enterprises.

The campaign recognizes that when businesses take the lead and take action, society will follow.

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Boeing believes that social responsibility is an integral part of our daily lives as Boeing is an active member of Saudi society. Since 2012, we have been active contributors to the local community with an investment totaling more than $13 million. Boeing aims to be of service to the community through the development and sustainment of the non-for-profit (NPO) sector through our systematic review and due diligence process in our selection of the NPOs we support. We believe that through our efforts, we will help integrate those affected by different disabilities within the Saudi community."

Remarkably, “Prince Sultan bin Salman Individuals with Disabilities Education and Awareness Program,” is not the only project initiated by Boeing and KSCDR. Another project is the "E-Training Platform" offering qualitative training to raise knowledge and research in disability through digital content. This platform met the urgent need for disability awareness and education, specifically for teachers and family members in small districts and cities in Saudi Arabia.

As of August 2021, over 7191 beneficiaries were trained, compared to annual data of 2020 with 5711 training courses, and 278 in 2019. The satisfaction of beneficiaries with training services provided through the "E-training Platform" was 93% in August 2021 compared to 92%, annual data of 2020.

In addition to these accomplishments, a comprehensive book for disability groups is underway, including a chapter dedicated to individuals with learning disabilities.

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Riyadh Global Medical BioTechnology Summit 2021 ALEXANDER WOODMAN

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n September 14-16, 2021, Riyadh Global Medical Biotechnology Summit 2021 (RGMBS 2021), organized by King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC) at the National Guard Ministry, brought together pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry experts, health research funders, government representatives, R&D experts, and administrators. The summit was held under the patronage of HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and inaugurated by HRH Prince Abdullah bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, Minister of National Guard with the presence of the former Saudi Minister of Health, Dr. Tawfig Al-Rabiah.

The summit covered nine sessions with extensive and insightful presentations, followed by panel discussions on how to maximize research in medical biotechnology in the digital medicine era and how to benefit from clinical trials; development and production of vaccines; stem cell biotechnology; genomics, genetics, gene editing, and bioinformatics.

During the opening ceremony, in his remarks on the importance of biotechnology, Dr. Al-Rabiah emphasized that: “One of the most important applications of biotechnology is the production of insulin for human being.”

Reflecting on the market value, Dr. Al-Rabiah continued: “The global market value of biotechnology is expected to reach more than $700 billion by 2025, and global sales in biotechnology drugs are expected to reach $351 billion.”

The keynote presentation “Developing a COVID-19 vaccine for the world at an unprecedented pace,” was made

by Sir Menelas N. Pangalos, Executive Vice President & President BioPharmaceutical R&D, AstraZeneca. While presenting the progress of the vaccine, Sir Pangalos mentioned that AstraZeneca has worked to respond to the government, healthcare systems, and patient needs during COVID-19 crisis. As a result, AZD7442 was developed for the world and delivered in 18 months at no profit during the pandemic.

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During the panel discussions, the emphasis was on biotechnology development in the Kingdom, taking into consideration the international experience and how biotechnology research can work within Saudi community.

Panelists highlighted that Saudi Arabia is well positioned to become a leader in emerging market as it has invested in research and innovation.

Closing remarks of the summit were delivered by Prof.

Ahmed Alaskar Executive Director of KAIMRC who underlined the richness of the three-day summit: "We must move forward to turn this science into tangible products that will affect not only the health of people and society, but also the global economy. In Saudi Arabia, science as an alternative to oil can contribute to the economy and become part of Vision 2030."

Photo credit: Riyadh Global Medical BioTechnology Summit 2021

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Indonesia Celebrates National Batik Day FELLIN F. KINANTI

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ctober 2 is a special date for Indonesia as it commemorates the National Batik Day. 2021 is noteworthy because it marks the 12-year anniversary since batik was recognized by UNESCO as an Indonesian Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

To celebrate, the spouses of Indonesia diplomats held a batik-themed picnic at the Al Arudh Park inside the Diplomatic Quarter. Decors and clothes made from batik fabric were displayed. A mini demo on how to use the batik cloth was also held.

Batik is a cloth made from the wax-resist dyeing tradition of Indonesians developed centuries ago. It has various colors and patterns according to its origins and each pattern has its own special meaning. Batik is not only used by ancient Royals, but is also used as a symbol of

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fortune from the beginning and ending of life. Batik is still commonly used as a baby carrier and is also often used in prayer rugs, table cloths, and casual shirts.

Perhaps as meaningful as the thobe and abaya for every Saudi, Indonesians also take pride in wearing the batik in formal attire. Most, if not all, schools, institutions, and companies in Indonesia have batik in their uniform or daily wear. It is also common for Indonesians to wear batik to attend family gatherings or any kind of ceremonial events such as engagement or wedding. Nowadays, we can find batik transformed into various fashion pieces such as bags, shoes, belts, hats, and face masks. For Indonesians, the National Batik Day celebration serves as a reminder of their roots and identity: to love their heritage and embrace a uniqueness that cannot be found elsewhere but at home.

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Trio Embla Performs Nordic Concert DQ LIVING STAFF

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he Royal Embassy of Norway and the Royal Embassy of Denmark organized Nordic Concert at the Royal Danish Embassy in the Diplomatic Quarter on October 3, 2021. Three musicians of Trio Embla: Helene Schroeder, Astrid Sofie Nielsen (Denmark), and Vera Aadland (Norway), performed a concert of classical music.

Danish Ambassador, H.E. Ole Moesby, delivered opening remarks saying that changes in Saudi Arabia are remarkable. The Ambassador further continued: "Since I arrived in the Kingdom four years ago, I have witnessed a number of changes. Nevertheless, the concept of live concerts and female performers is still a relatively new experience in the Kingdom; therefore, I am very pleased to welcome our musicians from Norway and Denmark."

H.E. Ole Moesby welcomed the newly appointed Ambassador of Norway to Saudi Arabia, H.E. Thomas Lid Ball, who emphasized that cultural diplomacy, particularly the Trio Embla concert, was the best way to start his service.

“When I arrived in the Kingdom, I was told that I am a lucky ambassador who will witness rapid changes taking place in Saudi Arabia," highlighted H.E. Thomas Lid Ball.

The ambassadors of Denmark and Norway stressed that the concert became one of the reflections of their agenda in the framework of Nordic cooperation aimed at strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia in various fields. Reflecting on this momentous event, they praised the concert as one of the most remarkable accomplishments in the past few years.

The musicians of Trio Embla appreciated the opportunity to perform and discover Saudi Arabia. When asked about their experience and impressions from Saudi Arabia, Helene Schroeder said, “I believe this is a wonderful country that is undergoing tremendous changes, including women empowerment, and the way society works for the growth of Saudi Arabia. It is also heartwarming to see that the

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country’s oil-dependent economy is transforming into a green economy striving for a better environment.”

Vera Aadland noted that although this was her first long journey, especially in the Middle East, the experience was extremely positive: “Saudi Arabia and Saudi society are very different from what I knew from Norway and Denmark, and it is interesting to see how different countries work and cooperate.”

Astrid Sofie Nielsen resumed the thoughts of her fellow teammates, highlighting the politeness and generosity of Saudis: “People are very welcoming here, even without knowing who we are. They welcomed us with open arms and hearts. Last but not least, we are delighted to see that musical life in the Kingdom is flourishing and music schools are opening.”

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TOP BUSINESSES & SERVICES IN THE DQ FITNESS CENTERS, SPAS, AND SALONS SARAY SPA AT THE MARRIOTT RIYADH - DIPLOMATIC QUARTER Wellbeing and fitness is the top priority at Saray Spa. Guests can have a pampering session from a wide range of luxury spa services from body scrub, foot bath, massages, as well as a Turkish "hammam" bath. Fret not if you’re a fitness junkie as Saray Spa also has a fitness center that offers different equipment for different types of exercises. Personal training and group fitness classes are also available.

6781 Adullah AlSahmi Street, Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh 12511 Saudi Arabia 056251 0172 or 0532621781 https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/fitness-spa-services/ruhdq-marriott-riyadh-diplomatic-quarter/ Instagram: @marriottriyadhdq Facebook: @marriottriyadh Twitter: @MHRiyadhDQ

RADISSON BLU HOTEL & RESIDENCE HEALTH CLUB An ideal place for both business and leisure, Radisson Blu Hotel & Residence also offers an extensive health club with a well-equipped gym that caters to both male and female guests, an indoor swimming pool, two treatment rooms and two steam rooms. You can also book a spa and massage treatment to invigorate your whole body.

7826 Umro Adhamry Street , Riyadh, 12512, Saudi Arabia +966 11 297 9400 https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-blu-riyadh-diplomatic-quarter Email address: info.dq.riyadh@radissonblu.com Instagram: @radissonbluresidenceriyadh Facebook: @RadissonBluHotelRiyadhDiplomaticQuarter

AL MANAHIL LADIES CENTER From the year that it started in 1990, Al Manahil now has Al Manahil Fitness Center and Al Manahil Sports Club where ladies and their children can get fit and practice sports.

They also have the Al Manahil Spa & Salon for beauty, care and relaxation, and the Al Manahil Mind & Body and Al Manahil Ballet & Performances Studios.

Diplomatic Square, Ibn Zahr Street, P.O. Box 61174, Riyadh 11565 +966 11 488 1069 http://www.almanahil.com.sa/ info@almanahil.com.sa/ hr@almanahil.com.sa Instagram: @al_manahil Facebook: @almanahilcenter Twitter: @Al_Manahil_

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RIYADH COMBAT CLUB The club focuses on effective martial arts from Brazilian jiujitsu, wrestling, boxing, Muay Thai, and kickboxing for kids and adults. They also have a Riyadh Combat Ladies Section.

Building 76, Al Kindy Plaza +966552562111 https://www.riyadhcombat.com/ dq@riyadhcombat.com / riyadhcombatclub@gmail.com Instagram: @ry.combat / @riyadhcombat (Riyadh Combat Ladies Section) Snapchat: @ry.combat

EXHALE YOGA STUDIO This yoga studio offers an array of yoga and teaching styles in the heart of Riyadh. They believe in many different styles of yoga and inspire to offer something for everyone. Their teachers are directed at creating the highest level of energy, vitality, and freedom by working on physical strength, flexibility, proper alignment, breathing, and balance. They offer different types of yoga such as Ashtanga, Prana Vinyasa, Dynamic hatha, and more. Pilates and Barre sessions are also available.

Cultural Palace, Al-Kindy Square +966555417550 www.exhaleyogasa.net info@exhaleyogasa.net Instagram: @exhaleyoga.sa

VILLA BLANCA SPA LOUNGE Villa Blanca Spa and Lounge is a one-stop shop for your beauty needs. They offer waxing, threading, massage, and nail and hair services all done in their bold yet glamorous salon.

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Al Fazzari Square, Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia +966-11-4888250 villa_blanca@hotmail.com Instagram: @villablancaksa

FOUR SPA Four Spa has always aimed to be a place of relaxation and support for their guests to escape their day to day stress.

They may be known for their nail spa and studio but they also want to indulge you with their other services such as eyelash extensions, hair treatments, and different massages.

Al Kindy Plaza, Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia +966 11 201 4444 www.four.com.sa info@four.com.sa Facebook: @4spa.sa Instagram and Twitter: @4spa

THE SALON AND BARBERSHOP AT THE MARRIOTT RIYADH DIPLOMATIC QUARTER They offer men and women’s haircuts, hair treatments, and manicure and pedicure services.

6781 Adullah AlSahmi Street, Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh 12511 Saudi Arabia 0118353000 ext. 3040 / 0567946460 Instagram: @marriottbarbershop Snapchat: www.snapchat.com/addmarriottbarbers

THE GENTLE MAN BARBER & SALON The Gentle Man Barber & Salon is the first male barbershop in the DQ. It promises a perfect grooming experience with highly-skilled staff to tend to your hair and other salon needs.

Al Kindy Plaza, Car park No. 13, Stair number 38, Ground floor, Center number 61, Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 0504537766 Instagram and Twitter: @gmbarber1

CORE SOCIAL WELLNESS CLUB CORE Social Wellness Club is opening soon in the DQ! It is a unique luxury health and wellness club that is built around three grounding pillars: MIND, BODY, and SOUL. Follow @core.riyadh on Instagram for updates.

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SCHOOLS ARTAL PREPARATORY SCHOOL The Artal Preparatory School was launched in 2018 with the aim to provide children with contemporary learning skills according to his/her abilities, tendencies, and creations. The school’s philosophy is based on integrating education with life (STEAM education). This means translating theoretical science into practical reality by linking scientific, artistic, and cultural concepts to various life activities.

Their DQ branch accepts children ages 1- 5 years old. +966 50 830 7830 www.artalschools.edu.sa info@artalschools.edu.sa / admission@artalschools.edu.sa Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @artalschools

BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL RIYADH DQ The British International School Riyadh (BISR) is a multi-campus school providing education to children from over 50 different nationalities in Riyadh. BISR believes that learning should be personalized, challenging, and enjoyable. It aims to provide high quality learning experiences within the classroom, through residential programs and via co-curricular programs. The BISR adapts the National Curriculum of England. +966 92 003 3963 www.bisr.com.sa admissions@bisr.com.sa / reception@bisr.com.sa Instagram and Twitter: @bisr_reach Facebook: @bisr.reach

KING FAISAL SCHOOL The mission of King Faisal School is to develop young people through a rigorous national and international programme of study. KFS fosters respect for Arab Islamic heritage while embracing an international perspective that is vital to meet the demands of the 21st Century. They have preschool, KFS Boys’ School for boys from grades 1 to 12, and KFS Girls’ School which currently accepts girls from grades 1 to 9. +966 11 482 0802 www.kfs.sch.sa Instagram: @k.f.school Facebook: @kingfaisalschool Twitter: @KFSCHOOL

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RECREATIONAL AND ENRICHMENT CENTER

HOTELS

TIME KIDS CENTER Time is a recreational and enrichment center for children aged 10 months to 7 years old. The center specializes in creative and fun kids’ classes, active play, day camps, birthday celebrations and special events. Their mission is to provide over-the-top place space where children are free to move, play, and explore safely.

MARRIOTT RIYADH DIPLOMATIC QUARTER Leading with innovative design and inspired by the ambiance of Wadi Hanifa, the hotel has been designed to achieve the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Golden certification. Experience a luxurious stay at their modern and spacious rooms and suites, a wellequipped fitness center, a heated outdoor pool, and a tranquil signature spa. Guests can have a gastronomic feast at the the Goji Restaurant and 10:10 Lounge.

Al Kindy Plaza +966 50 187 2681 info@timekidscenter.com Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @timecenter.sa

HOSPITAL DR. SULAIMAN AL HABIB MEDICAL CENTER It is a world-class medical center that offers the highest quality primary healthcare services with their comprehensive medical services, qualified medical team, homecare, and 24/7 emergency and ambulance services and pharmacy.

Al-Towqi St., Diplomatic Quarter, PO Box 12511, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia +966112614444 www.hmg.com DQ.Admin@drsulaimanalhabib.com Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @alhabibmc

6781 Adullah AlSahmi Street, Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh 12511 Saudi Arabia +966 11 835 3000 https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ruhdq-marriott-riyadh-diplomatic-quarter/ Instagram: @marriottriyadhdq Facebook: @MariottRiyadh Twitter: @MHRiyadhDQ

RADISSON BLU HOTEL AND RESIDENCE, RIYADH DIPLOMATIC QUARTER The hotel’s 110 distinctive rooms and suites boast an elegant Italian interior design with a vibrant Middle Eastern touch. The hotel also offers a well-equipped gym, indoor swimming pool, two treatment rooms, two steam rooms, and a special area for kids to have fun. Guests can eat their heart out at the Larder Restaurant.

7826 Umro Adhamry Street , Riyadh, 12512, Saudi Arabia +966 11 297 9400 https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-blu-riyadh-diplomatic-quarter/rooms info.dq.riyadh@radissonblu.com Instagram: @radissonbluresidenceriyadh Facebook: @RadissonBluHotelRiyadhDiplomaticQuarter

TRAVEL AGENCY ALSARH TRAVEL AND TOURISM One of the Kingdom’s most trusted travel agencies. They can help plan your trips — both domestic and international, and can also help manage your business trips.

Al Fazari Square, Diplomatic Quarter Business Management Solutions 011-4944333 bms@alsarh.com.sa Hiyyak Platform Services 011-8103838 info@hiyyak.com www.hiyyak.com Instagram and Twitter: @alsarh_travel Facebook: @alsarhtravel

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REAL ESTATE

CAR RENTAL

DARRAQ RESIDENCES BY DUR HOSPITALITY DUR Hospitality, known for managing, developing, and operating hotels and residential communities across Saudi Arabia has one of its largest luxury residential projects right in the DQ — The Darraq Residences. It encompasses residential units, including villas and fully-furnished apartments designed with exceptional features with world-class facilities; an ideal choice for families seeking modern comforts and relaxation.

BUDGET SAUDI Budget Saudi is the leading car rental and leasing company in the Middle East region and is synonymous with the highest levels of quality and customer service.

+966 11 481 6666 ext. 600 www.dur.sa leasing@dur.sa Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @darraqsa / @durhospitality

Budget Desk at the Radisson Blu Hotel & Residence 7826 Umro Adhamry Street, Riyadh, 12512, Saudi Arabia 0533300141 www.budgetsaudi.com ryd.radissonblu@budgetsaudi.com Instagram and Twitter: @budgetsaudi Facebook: @Budget.SaudiArabia

LAUNDRY SHOP BUBBLES LAUNDRY SERVICE They provide washing and ironing services for all personal and household belongings from clothes, dresses, bedspreads, shoes, and bags. Customers can expect quality service at a competitive price.

Al Fazari Square 0539187879 www.bubbleslaundry.sa Instagram and Twitter: @bubbles_l_s

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MEET

Eleanor Coker Homemaker

Over 10,000 residents call the DQ home. Meet Your Neighbor profiles interesting people in our international DQ Community. Learn about the diverse experience, interests, and backgrounds of DQ dwellers. Read on, and Meet Your Neighbor.

Tell us about yourself.

I was born in Hawaii of Korean parents and raised in Tahiti. I met my proud Texan husband in University and together we have three children (only one is here with us as the two others are grown up). We lived in Hong Kong, Beijing, California, and now in Riyadh.

Throughout my adult life, I've done many things: raised our children, supported my husband's career, volunteered at nonprofit organizations, helped friends with their startups, opened a couple of small businesses, ran a small company, and worked as a recruiter.

How would family and friends describe you?

I think my family and friends view me as busy, resourceful, talkative, perfectionist, strong, helpful, generous, simple, independent, organized and a hard worker. Many perceive me as an extrovert but I feel that I am both introvert and extrovert.

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

My father was a source of great inspiration as I watched him work his way out of poverty for his family in a foreign country without speaking the language. My husband has always been another source of strength for me. He is very supportive in whatever I want to do or be.

What brought you to Riyadh?

My husband's job as the new DQ Steward brought me to Riyadh.

What are you most proud of accomplishing so far?

I am proud and grateful for my children. I have two daughters who are grown up and living on their own in the USA and Hong Kong. My son is embracing life here. I am grateful for their multi-cultural background and understanding.

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

Being a resident here is very different from what I was told it would be like. It is a great time to be in the Kingdom. We get to witness this great country preparing for Vision 2030. I am always impressed with the vibrant and positive energy that is in the air. Here, one can dream anything and make it a reality.

Look at each of the unique buildings in the city.

Where are your favorite places to visit in Riyadh?

I love to be in the desert. There is something magical and beautiful about it — the silence from the noise of the city, the stars, the non air-conditioned air. The desert somehow recharges my batteries.

What were your first impressions of the DQ? When I first arrived at the DQ, I immediately fell in love with it. I thought that it had some of the most beautiful streets in Riyadh. I have been living in the DQ for almost a year now; I still feel the same way today.

What do you like most about the DQ? Every time I arrive in the DQ, I catch myself sighing in relief "I'm home" as I enter the gates. There is a definite sense of tranquility and safety here. I love being able to take walks on the DQ trails or neighbourhood streets. I also love the cultural diversity the DQ offers. It is truly a unique place to live in.

What are you looking forward to in the coming season?

The weather is getting really nice to be outside. It is time to get out and get moving. I just created a group called Active DQ Women to encourage each other to get/stay active while getting to know our neighbors in the DQ. This project is in its early stages. I am really looking forward to connecting with people here.

Photo credit: venturestudios

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DQ LIVING MAGAZINE Connecting the Community since 2017