The Saudi Food Festival in Riyadh concluded with 60,000 visitors
The Culinary Arts Commission concluded the fifth edition of the Saudi Food Festival , held at King Saud University in Riyadh, marking a resounding success over its ten-day run. The festival attracted over 60,000 visitors from diverse nationalities, who flocked to explore more than 300 varied dishes presented by over 100 restaurants, in a cultural event that blended traditional heritage with innovative spirit.
Establishing a food culture within the framework of Vision 2030
The organization of this festival comes within the framework of the tireless efforts exerted by the Ministry of Culture and the Culinary Arts Commission to achieve the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which places great importance on documenting the intangible national heritage. Saudi cuisine is an integral part of the Kingdom's cultural identity, and the festival aims to transform culinary arts from mere daily practices into a cultural and tourism product that contributes to strengthening the local economy and showcasing the Kingdom's geographical and cultural diversity through its varied flavors.
A journey through the regions of the Kingdom and the world
The Heritage and Culinary Arts Zone formed the heart of the festival, featuring 13 stations representing all the administrative regions of the Kingdom. Visitors experienced a firsthand look at traditional Saudi homes, learning about culinary methods passed down through generations. The event transcended local boundaries, acquiring a global dimension through the Thai pavilion, which showcased Asian cuisine across 17 sections, and the hosting of the International Gourmand Awards. This reflects the Kingdom's soft power and its ability to build bridges of cultural exchange with more than 80 countries that shared their culinary traditions at the event.
Empowering chefs and supporting the local economy
In a move aimed at institutionalizing the culinary sector, the festival hosted its first annual Chefs' Meeting, bringing together leading professionals and enthusiasts to discuss ways to develop national talent. During the meeting, the Saudi Chefs' Council was introduced, which seeks to enhance the skills of those working in the sector and strengthen their presence at international events. Simultaneously, the accompanying markets provided a vital marketing platform for national products such as honey, olive oil, and Taif roses, thus supporting small producers and home-based businesses.
spaces for family and child
The festival was keen to provide a comprehensive experience for all family members, dedicating a "Children's Corner" to educational and recreational spaces that included workshops teaching the basics of cooking and a "Children's Maze" trail to develop motor and mental skills. The Honey Museum also offered a unique interactive experience that introduced visitors to the nutritional and therapeutic benefits of honey and the history of its production in the Kingdom, making a visit to the festival a complete educational and entertaining journey.
