Nadia Bakhurji

Career and education

Bakhurji gained her BSC in Interior Architecture from King Faisal University in 1989, before establishing 'Riwaq of the Kingdom Est.' ROK’s work became known for creative and unique designs, and acquired a firm market presence. ROK initially focused on the design and construction of residential and commercial projects, before expanding into the hospitality, medical and corporate sectors.

In 2007, Bakhurji established 'Nadia Bakhurji Architectural and Interior Design Consultants' in Riyadh, offering comprehensive design services in partnership with top leading European architectural and engineering firms, Expanish from Spain and Vahanen from Finland. NBA specializes in providing complete architectural and interior design consultancy services for high end projects in community design, housing, education and healthcare.

On the public front, Bakhurji became a founding board member for the Arab International Women's Forum in 2000, and in 2004 became the first Saudi woman to make public her intention to run as a candidate for the Riyadh Local Municipality elections. In 2006, she was awarded a Chevening Scholarship with UCL in the UK, focusing on "Women’s participation in politics and decision making, and gender mainstreaming within organizations". She has since won two consecutive seats on the Board of the Saudi Council of Engineers in 2005 and 2009. Bakhurji has taken an active role as a female pioneer in her field and as professional role model to young women throughout Saudi Arabia, speaking at conferences and universities nationally and internationally.

Bakhurji has spearheaded initiatives to develop both men and women in the engineering sector and is actively working to bridge the gap between education and employment in all sectors. In 2010, Bakhurji a member of the Consulting Offices Committee, established under the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce to create initiatives to improve the quality and business environment governing consulting firms in Riyadh. In 2011, Bakhurji established the first Interior Design Chapter under the Saudi Council of Engineers. In 2011 Bakhurji appointed to represent Saudi Arabia on the Committee of Arab Women Engineers with a mandate to empower women in the engineering fields in the Arab world.

Philanthropy

As a continuation of her public work, in January 2012 Nadia Bakhurji was appointed as Secretary General of Alwaleed Bin Talal Foundation where she will continue her work to develop society towards brighter economic prospects, education and employment.

Personal life

Bakhurji is also the eldest of the 7 siblings and a great female role model out in the Saudi Arabia.