RIYADH: The Saudi Feast Food Festival returned for its fifth edition at King Saud University in Riyadh, running until Dec. 6, opening with strong momentum and high attendance.
A highlight is the Heritage and Culinary Arts Zone, featuring 13 stations representing different regions of Saudi Arabia, according to a Saudi Press Agency report.
Visitors sampled dishes prepared using traditional techniques, many arriving early to watch live cooking demos that recreated the feel of old family kitchens. Guests described it as “a deep dive into Saudi flavors.”
The Culinary Arts Commission was praised for modernizing the presentation of Saudi cuisine while preserving its roots, with smooth organization and strong programming elevating the Kingdom’s culinary scene locally and globally.
The festival included a heritage market with local honey, baked goods, olive oil, spices, dairy products, natural fragrances, Taif rose and jasmine, and handmade items from across Saudi Arabia — popular among families as cultural keepsakes.
This year introduced a dedicated Thailand zone, featuring Thai chefs, signature dishes, unique ingredients, and agricultural products.
The festival also hosts the Gourmand Awards, celebrating outstanding culinary books and food media from more than 80 countries.
