Saudi Arabia Culinary Tourism Market Report Size, Share, Growth Drivers, Trends, Opportunities & Forecast 2025–2030

Saudi Arabia Culinary Tourism Market Overview

• The Saudi Arabia Culinary Tourism Market is valued at USD 70 million, based on a five-year historical analysis. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing interest in authentic culinary experiences, the rise of food festivals, and the government's initiatives to promote tourism as part of Vision 2030. The market has seen a surge in both domestic and international tourists seeking unique food experiences that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.
• Key cities dominating the culinary tourism market include Riyadh, Jeddah, and AlUla. Riyadh is the capital and a major business hub, attracting culinary enthusiasts with its diverse dining options. Jeddah, known for its coastal cuisine and vibrant food scene, draws both local and international tourists. AlUla, with its historical significance and unique dining experiences, is becoming a culinary hotspot, particularly with events like Winter at Tantora.
• The Food Safety Law, 2022 issued by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), governs food safety and quality standards in the culinary tourism sector. This law requires all food establishments, including restaurants and catering services, to obtain licenses, implement hazard analysis and critical control points (HACCP) systems, maintain hygiene protocols, and adhere to labeling and traceability standards for ingredients served to tourists and locals.

Saudi Arabia Culinary Tourism Market Segmentation

By Type:The culinary tourism market in Saudi Arabia can be segmented into various types, including Food Tours & Tasting Trails, Cooking Classes & Workshops, Culinary & Food Festivals, Restaurant & Fine Dining Experiences, Street Food & Traditional Market Experiences, Coffee, Dates, and Beverage Experiences, Farm-to-Table, Desert, and Heritage Dining Experiences, and Others. Among these, Culinary & Food Festivals are particularly popular, attracting large crowds and showcasing the country's diverse culinary heritage.

By Cuisine:The culinary tourism market can also be segmented by cuisine, including Traditional Saudi Cuisine, Broader Middle Eastern & Levantine Cuisine, International Cuisine, Fusion & Contemporary Saudi Cuisine, Specialty Diet & Wellness Cuisine, and Others. Traditional Saudi Cuisine is the most dominant segment, as it reflects the rich cultural heritage and is a major attraction for both domestic and international tourists.

Saudi Arabia Culinary Tourism Market Competitive Landscape

The Saudi Arabia Culinary Tourism Market is characterized by a dynamic mix of regional and international players. Leading participants such as Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) – Culinary & Events Programs, Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) – Winter at Tantora & AlUla Moments, General Entertainment Authority (GEA) – Riyadh Season & Jeddah Season Food Experiences, Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) – Bujairi Terrace Culinary District, Saudi Culinary Arts Commission, Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA) – SAUDIA Holidays & Culinary Packages, Almosafer & Discover Saudi (Seera Group), Dur Hospitality (Makarem Hotels & other brands), Al Khozama Management Company (e.g., Al Faisaliah, premium F&B concepts), Al Hokair Group for Tourism and Development, Alshaya Group – International Restaurant Franchises in KSA, Riyadh Season F&B Concessionaires & Food Hall Operators, Jeddah Season F&B & Waterfront Restaurant Operators, Boutique Group (Historic Palace Hotels & Dining), NEOM & The Red Sea Global – Destination & Resort Culinary Experiences contribute to innovation, geographic expansion, and service delivery in this space.

Saudi Arabia Culinary Tourism Market Industry Analysis

Growth Drivers

• Increasing Global Interest in Culinary Experiences:The culinary tourism sector in Saudi Arabia is experiencing a surge, with over 50% of travelers expressing a desire to engage in local food experiences. According to the World Tourism Organization, culinary tourism is one of the fastest-growing segments, contributing approximately $160 billion to the global economy in future. This trend is expected to continue, as more tourists seek authentic culinary experiences that reflect local culture and traditions.
• Government Initiatives to Promote Tourism:The Saudi government has allocated $2 billion to enhance tourism infrastructure as part of its Vision 2030 initiative. This includes promoting culinary tourism through various campaigns and events. The Ministry of Tourism reported a 35% increase in culinary-related events in future, showcasing local cuisine and attracting international visitors. Such initiatives are pivotal in positioning Saudi Arabia as a culinary destination on the global stage.
• Rich Cultural Heritage and Diverse Cuisine:Saudi Arabia boasts a rich cultural heritage, with over 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a diverse culinary landscape that includes dishes like Kabsa and Shawarma. The country’s unique blend of flavors and cooking techniques attracts food enthusiasts. In future, culinary tours focusing on traditional Saudi cuisine saw a 45% increase in participation, highlighting the growing interest in the nation’s culinary offerings and cultural experiences.

Market Challenges

• Limited Awareness of Culinary Tourism:Despite the potential, awareness of culinary tourism in Saudi Arabia remains low, with only 30% of potential tourists familiar with the concept. This lack of awareness hinders market growth, as many travelers prioritize destinations with established culinary reputations. Efforts to educate both locals and international tourists about Saudi culinary experiences are essential to overcoming this challenge and attracting more visitors.
• Infrastructure Development Needs:The culinary tourism sector faces significant infrastructure challenges, particularly in rural areas where many culinary experiences are located. According to the Saudi Tourism Authority, 65% of culinary tourism sites lack adequate facilities, impacting visitor experiences. Investments in transportation, accommodation, and dining facilities are crucial to enhance accessibility and ensure a seamless experience for tourists seeking culinary adventures.

Saudi Arabia Culinary Tourism Market Future Outlook

The future of culinary tourism in Saudi Arabia appears promising, driven by increasing global interest and government support. As the nation continues to invest in tourism infrastructure and promote its rich culinary heritage, the sector is expected to attract a growing number of international visitors in future. Additionally, the integration of technology in culinary experiences and a focus on sustainability will likely enhance the appeal of Saudi Arabia as a culinary destination, fostering innovation and growth in the industry.

Market Opportunities

• Development of Culinary Festivals and Events:Organizing culinary festivals can significantly boost tourism, with events like the Riyadh Food Festival attracting over 250,000 visitors in future. Such festivals not only showcase local cuisine but also provide a platform for international chefs, enhancing Saudi Arabia's culinary reputation and drawing food enthusiasts from around the world.
• Collaborations with Local Chefs and Restaurants:Partnering with local chefs and restaurants can create unique culinary experiences that highlight regional flavors. In future, collaborations led to a 40% increase in culinary tour bookings, demonstrating the demand for authentic, locally-driven food experiences. This approach can enhance the overall appeal of Saudi culinary tourism and foster community engagement.