DANA AL-BASHITI A Jordanian Media Icon
Dana Al-Bashiti
A Jordanian Media Icon Redefining Saudi Screens

Dana Al-Bashiti, a 35-year-old Jordanian media personality, has firmly established herself as a household name on Saudi television. Her journey into the media world is as inspiring as it is unconventional. Born into a family that greatly emphasized education and achievement, Dana initially pursued a degree in engineering, following a path she believed was expected of her. However, her heart had always been captivated by the vibrant world of journalism.
“My grandfather used to say, ‘You’ll become a TV correspondent,’ and I would confidently reply, ‘No, Grandpa, I want to be an engineer like my father,’” she recalls with a smile. Despite her academic pursuits, Dana often daydreamed about standing in front of a camera, reporting the news. “I would hold a hairbrush and pretend to be a TV host,” she says, reminiscing about her childhood dreams.
During her college years, Dana began to feel an undeniable pull away from engineering and towards her true passion. One day, she took a leap of faith and decided to explore the College of Journalism and Mass Communication.
“I took the entrance exam without telling my parents and was accepted the same day. It felt like destiny was guiding me to a path I couldn’t ignore.” This decisive moment marked the beginning of her journey into media—a field where she would later thrive and become a respected figure.
The decision to switch paths was far from easy, but it reinforced a key life lesson. “Listening to your inner voice is essential to self-fulfilment,” Dana explains. “Following your passion gives you energy and makes you more creative and distinctive in your field.”
Dana attributes much of her initial success to a professor who recognised her potential early on. “He said, ‘You will enter the world of news, and you’ll have your own show.’ His words weren’t just encouragement; they were a prophecy that gave me the confidence to believe in myself.” This mentorship laid the foundation for her career, transforming journalism from a mere interest into a lifelong vocation.
Her professional journey began in marketing, a field that provided her with valuable insights into audience engagement and crafting compelling narratives. However, it was her transition into television reporting that truly defined her career.


“In marketing, I worked with specific audience segments, but in TV reporting, I interacted with a fascinating variety of personalities and industries,” Dana explains. “This work exposed me to the complexities of reality—inspiring success stories, intricate political developments, and poignant human experiences.”
Dana’s reporting career has spanned diverse subjects, from sports and economics to politics. Covering such a wide range required her to maintain rigorous preparation. “I focused on continuous research and gaining in-depth knowledge of each subject,” she says. “Whether attending conferences or interviewing experts, I ensured my reports were accurate and comprehensive.”
When discussing the challenges of being a woman in media, Dana is candid about the obstacles she faced. “Establishing credibility in a male-dominated field is never easy. I dedicated myself to developing a distinctive style, remaining professional, and building a strong network. It’s about proving that quality and substance can make your voice heard, regardless of gender.”
One of her career highlights came during Expo 2020 Dubai, where she reported on Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to the Saudi Pavilion. “Announcing the pavilion’s milestone of reaching one million visitors was a proud moment for me,” Dana shares. “Being part of such significant global events makes you realise the impact of your work.”
After eight years in the media industry, Dana is now preparing for her next ambitious venture: a luxury media podcast. “The podcast will feature prominent personalities from fields such as entrepreneurship, medicine, and inspiring life stories. My aim is to create content that is both informative and leaves a lasting impression.”
Dana sees luxury media as a natural progression in her career. “It’s a space that blends professionalism with creativity, enabling me to present stories with depth and elegance. I envision the podcast as a fusion of quality storytelling and cinematic aesthetics, with a focus on lighting, camera work, and sophisticated editing.”
Living in Dubai has profoundly influenced Dana’s career trajectory. “Dubai is not just a city; it’s a hub of innovation and creativity. It has given me the opportunity to work on major projects and collaborate with renowned brands,” she notes. “The city’s cultural diversity and commitment to growth have been instrumental in shaping my professional journey.”
Dana is particularly inspired by Dubai’s progressive support for women. “The initiatives here for gender equality and leadership opportunities are unparalleled. Women from all backgrounds can thrive and contribute meaningfully. I’m incredibly proud to be part of this environment,” she says.
Reflecting on her personal and professional growth, Dana acknowledges the challenges she has overcome. “The obstacles I’ve faced have taught me resilience and adaptability. Whether it’s preparing for a live report or meeting the creative demands of a new project, each experience has contributed to my development.”
Dana’s name has become synonymous with trust and credibility in the media landscape. As she looks to the future, she hopes to leave a legacy that inspires others. “I want to show future generations that following your passion and believing in yourself can lead to extraordinary achievements.
Journalism is not just about reporting the news; it’s about connecting with people, telling stories that matter, and making a difference.”
LOOKING AHEAD
Today, Dana Al-Bashiti stands as a beacon of inspiration for women across the Arab world. Her journey, from aspiring engineer to prominent media personality and entrepreneur, exemplifies the power of perseverance and self-belief.
As she continues to break barriers and set new standards of excellence, Dana reflects on the path that brought her here. “If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that passion and perseverance are the keys to success. My story is proof that listening to your inner voice and embracing challenges can lead you to your true calling.”
With her unwavering dedication and visionary approach, Dana Al-Bashiti remains a shining example of what can be achieved through determination, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of one’s dreams. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that the pursuit of passion is the path to purpose.
