A Childhood Shaped by Books and Art
For Dalia Darweesh, known by many through her platform Diaries of a Saudi Girl, the foundation of her career and creative spirit was laid within the walls of her home. Growing up with supportive parents shaped her values, passions, and the direction of her life. Her late father, who had a deep love for reading, instilled in her the habit of picking up books at an early age. That habit later blossomed into a lifelong love for literature. At the same time, her mother, an artist, encouraged her to explore creativity and self-expression, inspiring her to pursue writing and poetry.
As a child, Dalia never imagined that her interest in novels and poems would one day open professional doors. She simply wrote for the love of it, finding comfort and freedom in words. But destiny had other plans, guiding her from quiet writing sessions into the vibrant world of lifestyle publishing, fashion, and travel.
From Business Studies to Creative Writing
Dalia’s academic journey was not initially centered around writing. She pursued business studies, but her passion kept pulling her toward the arts. She studied literature and art history in college, courses that gave her a deeper appreciation for storytelling, culture, and expression. Though she didn’t plan on building a career in this field, these subjects awakened a natural talent that had always been within her.
The transition from business to publishing was not an easy one. It challenged her personality, especially since she was naturally introverted. But as she immersed herself in writing, she realized how effortless it felt. Putting thoughts and stories into words gave her a unique voice and opened doors she never thought possible.
The First Step into Publishing
After college, Dalia interned at a lifestyle magazine in Khobar. What was supposed to be a short three-month internship turned into three years of professional growth. During this time, she explored various fields of lifestyle journalism writing about fashion, food, and travel. The internship allowed her to refine her writing skills, expand her creative horizons, and gain valuable industry experience.
This opportunity marked the true beginning of her career. What started as an experiment turned into a stepping stone, confirming that her love for storytelling could indeed become a profession.
A Passion for Styling and Modeling
Alongside her career in writing, Dalia also pursued her passion for styling. She became a certified stylist and even spent some time modeling in the United States. These experiences gave her a fresh perspective on the fashion industry and helped her understand the challenges aspiring models face.
Motivated by this, she launched Ela Agency in Saudi Arabia, an initiative aimed at creating opportunities for new talents in modeling. Training and mentoring aspiring models became part of her mission, as she sought to inspire others to find their strength and discover the potential within themselves.
For Dalia, it was never just about fashion or appearances. It was about empowerment helping individuals build confidence, embrace authenticity, and step into the spotlight with courage.
Becoming Experiences Editor at List Magazine
Today, Dalia holds the position of Experiences Editor at List Magazine in Riyadh, where she covers luxury travel and lifestyle. Her work takes her across the globe, exploring five-star hotels, cultural destinations, and unique experiences. From relaxing in an ice bath to reviewing world-class resorts, she has turned her love for adventure and exploration into a dream career.
Her Sagittarius spirit always seeking discovery, freedom, and meaning shines through in her writing. Every article she crafts is infused with curiosity and passion, reflecting her belief that travel is not just about seeing new places but about connecting with cultures, people, and stories.
Lessons from the COVID-19 Era
The COVID-19 pandemic was a turning point for professionals around the world, and for Dalia, it was no different. The shift to remote work taught her valuable lessons in communication. She learned to avoid assumptions, speak with clarity, and ensure mutual understanding in all her interactions.
These lessons shaped not only her professional approach but also her personal connections. By embracing open and precise communication, she strengthened relationships and built trust skills that continue to guide her in her career today.
Inspiring Others Through Authenticity
One of Dalia’s core values is authenticity. In a world often filled with façades and curated images, she believes in the power of staying true to oneself. Her goal is to highlight Saudi Arabia’s evolving creative and cultural landscape while inspiring others to embrace their uniqueness.
She also strongly advocates for solo travel, encouraging people to step out of their comfort zones and embark on journeys alone. For her, solo travel is the best way to discover oneself, build resilience, and form meaningful connections with people across the world.
A Message to Her Younger Self
Looking back, Dalia often reflects on the advice she would give to her younger self. Her message is simple yet powerful: “Never dim your light to fit in. Authenticity is your greatest strength.”
She believes that true success comes from embracing individuality rather than hiding it. For anyone struggling to find their path, Dalia’s story is a reminder that uniqueness is not a weakness it is the very thing that sets people apart and opens doors to new opportunities.
The Journey Ahead
As she continues to grow in her career, Dalia’s mission remains clear: to inspire, empower, and celebrate authenticity. Whether through her editorial work, her agency, or her personal reflections on Diaries of a Saudi Girl, she seeks to uplift others and encourage them to chase their passions fearlessly.
Her journey from a book-loving child in a creative household to a leading voice in Saudi lifestyle media is proof that passion, authenticity, and resilience can transform dreams into reality. And while her story is still being written, one thing is certain Dalia Darweesh will continue to inspire many with her voice, her vision, and her authenticity.
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