RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Asir region has won the 2023 World Food Gift Challenge with Asir Taste, a locally produced honey.

The Sidr honey from the mountain village of Rijal Alma is made by Abdullah Al-Jurashi.

The Saudi Culinary Arts Commission took part in the global challenge, which brought together 29 food and craft gifts from eight European and global culinary regions.

Representatives from the commission attended the awards ceremony held recently at the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism.

The challenge promotes local food and cultural diversity by instilling pride in regional traditions, and recognizing outstanding products of other culinary cultures.

Asir is the first region outside Europe to win the title of Global Culinary Region, working under the guidance of IGCAT to promote food security and health.