Saudi cuisine has blossomed onto a lively scene, attracting an increasing number of tourists each year. In Saudi, food is much more than a necessity; it is a central element of hospitality and social bonding. Culinary options in the country showcase Saudi’s culture and long heritage as a diverse and multicultural country.
Saudi cuisine, shaped by historical trade routes and cultural exchanges, is an exotic blend of Middle Eastern flavors, Asian spices, and a touch of modern innovation. The fusion of savors and techniques from different regions has created a unique and diverse gastronomic experience that reflects Saudi’s cosmopolitan heritage.
The use of spices such as cardamom, saffron, and cumin, combined with traditional techniques like slow-cooking and grilling, highlight the depth and complexity of Saudi dishes. Dishes such as Kabsa, infused with a variety of spices, and Jareesh, made from grains, exemplify this diversity.
Throughout the years, gastronomy has emerged as a significant draw, with both local and international chefs contributing more and more to the evolving culinary landscape. Chefs are indeed exploring new ways to integrate traditional aromas with modern techniques, creating a dynamic gastronomic scene.
Maiz is the perfect example of these establishments revisiting the heritage of Saudi cuisine with style and elegance to offer a high-level gastronomic experience, a similar approach shared by Nagwa, also based in Riyadh and specializes in Saudi sweets and pastries.
Moreover, discover below some remarkable chefs that are making waves in Saudi cuisine today!
4 CHEFS TO FOLLOW
Abdel Rahmane Enani is a prime example of this new generation of Saudi chefs who are redefining the culinary scene. He is the mastermind behind Jeddah’s famous taco truck “Caliente.” Enani specializes in Mediterranean and Asian cuisines, a style influenced by his family and mentors. He has declared, “I appreciate the finesse of Japanese cuisine and the authenticity of Mediterranean cuisines. I believe their juxtaposition creates a perfect balance in the world of food, offering a truly refined gastronomic experience.”
Enani participated in the American reality cooking show “Top Chef,” honing his skills in South America and California. His work reflects the vibrant fusion of global influences present in modern Saudi cuisine, offering a unique culinary proposition that blends multiple cultures while remaining deeply rooted in Saudi traditions.
Rakan Al-Oraifi Rising culinary star and TV presenter Rakan Al-Oraifi was hailed as the “Best Saudi Chef” at the 2018 Saudi Excellence in Tourism Awards. He also showcased his talent on “Top Chef Middle East” season two. Known for his modern take on traditional Saudi dishes, Al-Oraifi continues to captivate food enthusiasts with his creative culinary vision.
Nour Al-Zaben A graduate of the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu culinary school in Paris, Nour Al-Zaben is a judge on the reality cooking show “Chopped” and the founder of Urb Kitchen in Jeddah. Her culinary style combines classic techniques with modern twists, resulting in dishes that are both sophisticated and approachable.
Alain Ducasse Renowned French chef Alain Ducasse has brought his expertise to the heart of the AlUla oasis, presenting a menu that showcases local products through the lens of French culinary excellence. Visitors can savor dishes that combine local and French inspirations. Examples of his creations include traditional lamb dishes infused with Arabian spices and desserts that feature local dates and honey. This pop-up experience will return in 2025, offering another opportunity to enjoy Ducasse’s masterful fusion of flavors in Saudi.
***
Truly, it has never been easier to visit Saudi – visa initiatives have been continuously developed, with the eVisa program now including 66 countries and special administrative regions, and the GCC residents visa and free 96-hour Stopover Visa. UK, US, or Schengen visa holders, as well as residents of the UK, US, or European Union countries, are eligible for the instant eVisa.
Connectivity and Visa
Saudi has recently eased tourist visa requirements with immediate effect, where Pakistani applicants can now submit a bank statement showing a minimum monthly credit amount of USD 750 or its equivalent.
The Tasheer offices across Pakistan offer a convenient and user-friendly experience, including visa application guidance, biometric enrolment, status tracking, and passport delivery. Travellers can schedule an appointment on the Tasheer website prior to their visit.
In addition, Saudi has introduced the transit visa which is available for travellers arriving in Saudi via Saudia and Flynas, where they can transit and explore Saudi for up to 96 hours. Visa on arrival is available for those travellers who hold a valid and used UK, US or Schengen visa.
In the past year, Saudi introduced the one-year multiple entry visa for Pakistani travellers. This is a specific visa for those coming for personal visits such as attending weddings or functions or visiting friends or family. Holders of this visa can enjoy multiple visits to Saudi within a 12-month period, allowing them to explore the country’s vibrant cities, cultural richness, and natural wonders all year round.
Pakistani travellers with the one-year multiple entry visa can also perform Umrah, underscoring Saudi’s commitment to fostering spiritual journeys and cultural exchanges.
To learn more about Saudi and plan out your route, visit https://www.visitsaudi.com/en for more information.
Inviting international tourists to unearth Saudi’s legends and wonders, the national tourism brand, ‘Saudi, Welcome to Arabia’, recently launched its new international campaign, “This Land is Calling”. The cinematic campaign video follows a female traveller on her captivating journey through the vast, mystical landscapes of Saudi ‘ The Heart of Arabia’, one of the fastest-growing destinations in the world. The film highlights Saudi’s extraordinary human and natural heritage, showcases the country’s new era of tourism growth as a dynamic global destination, and celebrates the genuine hospitality of its people. Watch here:
Explore Saudi Arabia’s ancient heritage and culture, breathtaking outdoor activities and delicious local food. Plan your trip in Saudi today!
To learn more and plan your trip, visit http://www.visitsaudi.com/
About ‘Saudi, Welcome to Arabia’
‘Saudi, Welcome to Arabia’ is a vibrant consumer brand dedicated to sharing Saudi Arabia with the world and welcoming travelers to explore all the country has to offer. The brand’s role is to drive forward the country’s tourism industry through awareness-raising campaigns and to provide a comprehensive array of information and resources for travelers to plan and enjoy unforgettable journeys. As the world’s fastest-growing destination, Saudi, the heart of Arabia, is the most exciting new year-round destination. www.visitsaudi.com
