Sometimes, life moves fast, and no one exemplifies this better than Nada Bashaen. Chatting with her on the phone for this interview as she dashes to catch a plane for her next meeting, Bashaen’s boundless energy is undeniable. The conversation moves at a rapid pace, as if her thoughts were racing to keep up with her ambitions. But then, in the middle of the conversation, she pauses. She had just spotted her former boss and couldn’t resist the opportunity to go over and greet them warmly – a small but telling moment that captured her essence: driven yet deeply grounded in personal connections. 

This duality defines Bashaen. Having spent over a decade in investment banking has sharpened her ability to thrive in high-pressure environments. That chapter in her life honed skills like strategic thinking, time management, and adaptability. “Banking taught me how to think on my feet,” she shares. But behind the disciplined exterior she had cultivated during that time bubbled an entrepreneurial spirit eager to create something new. That restlessness to innovate pushed her to take the leap from corporate security into a world of endless possibilities.

Today Bashaen’s enterprising ventures reflect her diverse passions. On top of co-hosting the popular Kalam Nawaem show on MBC1, she developed multiple ventures. Her newest project is her signature Bimini Home Service Spa, which brings luxury spa treatments directly to clients’ homes. Inspired by the mythical Fountain of Youth, Bimini embodies her mission to provide women with the opportunity to rejuvenate without sacrificing convenience. “I wanted to create a service that allows women to feel cared for and pampered in their own space,” she explains. The concept merges practicality with indulgence, addressing the needs of a modern woman and her busy lifestyle.

Another significant enterprise is Paddle Pursuit, a state-of-the-art paddle sports facility in Saudi Arabia. Featuring both indoor and outdoor courts. However, the venue is more than just a way for recreation – it serves as a hub for wellness and community. “The idea was to create a space where people could connect over a shared love of staying active,” she says, emphasising the importance of fostering relationships through physical activity. For Bashaen, it’s about more than sports. “Community and connection are the foundation of everything I build.”

Balancing multiple businesses requires focus and discipline, and Nada credits her success to meticulous time management. “Time is your most valuable resource,” she says confidently. “The secret isn’t working harder; it’s working smarter.” Her approach includes carefully prioritising tasks and setting clear boundaries to maintain balance, even amidst the demands of entrepreneurship. To reach this, she favours the simplicity of handwritten notes to organise her ideas. The tactile act of putting pen to paper allows her to slow down, reflect, and process in a way that digital tools often fail to replicate. “When I write something by hand, it feels more real, more actionable,” she explains. Filled with notes, sketches, and ideas for her various ventures, her notebooks represent her ability to weave practicality with innovation.

Inspiration for her work comes from people who lead with integrity and perseverance. Observing others who demonstrate dedication fuels her own drive to push forward and improve. But above all, Bashaen never loses sight of the importance of relationships. “Success isn’t just about what you accomplish; it’s about who you meet and how you treat them along the way,” she says. 

Bashaen’s journey is a testament to the power of focus, resilience, and ambition. “Success isn’t about choosing one path,” she says. “It’s about creating your own.” Her ability to combine strategic thinking with a deep appreciation for personal connections allows this multi-tasking entrepreneur to excel across industries without losing sight of what matters most. Her story serves as a reminder that success lies not in merely moving quickly, but rather in staying grounded while continuing to dream big.

@nadabashaen