DJ Nooriyah is flipping the script on dance music with her bold, cross-cultural beats and fearless storytelling.
From community radio to owning stages worldwide, she’s breaking barriers and putting SWANA sounds on the map. As the founder of Middle of Nowhere, Nooriyah is redefining what it means to be a DJ today – she’s just getting started, and we’re here for it.
Who is DJ Nooriyah?
Nooriyah Al‑Dossary – Saudi-born, grew up between Saudi, Japan and the UK, and is now based in London.
DJ Nooriyah: How old is she?
Her birthday is November 5, which makes her a Scorpio. Mysterious, bold, and totally unstoppable.
DJ Nooriyah: What did she do before DJing?
Before music took over, Nooriyah earned a master’s in public health, focusing on child nutrition in conflict zones. While studying, she did voiceovers at a local rt a radio station, where she discovered her passion for DJing.
DJ Nooriyah: What makes her sound unique?
Her sets are like a passport. She blends Arabic, Latin, and UK club sounds, creating unexpected mixes that hit hard and feel personal. Every track she spins carries a piece of the world she comes from.
DJ Nooriyah: Where has she played?
From Glastonbury to Coachella to BBC 4, Nooriyah’s been making serious noise on major stages. She’s also the founder of Middle of Nowhere – a London-based event series celebrating SWANA DJs and reshaping the sound of the region.
DJ Nooriyah: What’s next?
She’s expanding into music supervision for film and TV, and working on upcoming EPs and live visuals. Her dream? To build immersive, multi-sensory worlds through music and bring more Arab women along with her.
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