Saudi Tourism Authority Promotes Saudi Cuisine with The Saudi Table Culinary Residency, Here’s All You Need to Know

Published on December 15, 2025

The “Saudi Table” is positioned as a cultural introduction to Saudi Arabia’s food scene, emphasizing the shared dining traditions, regional ingredients, and diverse culinary influences from across the kingdom. This immersive residency aims to offer guests a first-hand experience of Saudi Arabia’s modern culinary identity, built on centuries of cultural exchange, trade, and family recipes passed down through generations. Chef Kunal Kapur, known for his expertise in Indian and global cuisines, curated the residency to showcase not only the rich flavors but also the cultural significance behind each dish.

The communal dining format of “The Saudi Table” mirrors Saudi Arabia’s long-standing tradition of shared meals, which is deeply rooted in the country’s culture. It highlights the influence of trade routes that have connected Saudi Arabia with regions far and wide, bringing in ingredients and culinary techniques from the East and West. The immersive experience thus provides a perfect platform for promoting Saudi cuisine, with its combination of bold spices, slow-cooked meats, fresh seafood, and distinctive regional variations.

Chef Kunal Kapur’s Vision for “The Saudi Table”

Chef Kunal Kapur, a key figure behind this unique culinary residency, shared his excitement about the project. “Saudi is a land of many wonders. From the coral reefs in the Saudi Red Sea to the snow-dusted peaks of Tabuk, every corner has a story to tell, of adventure, heritage, and especially food that’s been passed on quietly like an heirloom, generation after generation,” he remarked. His passion for Saudi Arabia’s culinary traditions shines through in this collaboration, as he seeks to bridge the culinary cultures of India and Saudi Arabia.

Chef Kapur went on to draw parallels between the hospitality cultures of the two countries. He noted the shared values of warmth and generosity in both nations, citing India’s “Atithi Devo Bhavah” (The guest is God) and Saudi Arabia’s “Hafawa” (the practice of unmatched hospitality). According to Kapur, “The Saudi Table is a celebration of this connection.” He invited guests to indulge in a spread that is both familiar and spectacular, offering a fusion of flavors and traditions that bridge both cultures.

The Role of Saudi Arabia’s Culinary Travel Itineraries

The Saudi Tourism Authority also used the preview event to introduce special culinary-focused travel itineraries for the Indian market. These travel packages are designed to give Indian tourists an in-depth exploration of Saudi Arabia’s food culture, providing an authentic experience of its culinary diversity. Starting at Rs 74,000, these itineraries include guided tours of major culinary destinations in Saudi Arabia, including traditional markets, food festivals, and visits to renowned restaurants that showcase the best of Saudi cuisine.

With Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry evolving and a growing interest in the kingdom’s rich cultural heritage, culinary tourism has become an important aspect of the nation’s offerings. The culinary itineraries cater specifically to the Indian market, tapping into the strong food culture shared by both countries and encouraging more tourists to visit Saudi Arabia. The curated travel packages promise to be an attractive option for Indian travelers seeking to explore new destinations, enhance their culinary knowledge, and experience Saudi Arabia’s food scene firsthand.

The Saudi Table Experience and Its Impact on Tourism

The Saudi Table residency has the potential to play a key role in shaping the future of Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector, particularly in attracting food and culture enthusiasts. By introducing Saudi cuisine to the Indian audience through an immersive dining experience, the event strengthens cultural ties between the two nations and promotes Saudi Arabia as a gastronomic destination. This culinary initiative also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader vision of diversifying its tourism offerings as part of its Vision 2030, which aims to increase the number of international visitors and promote sustainable tourism across the kingdom.

The Saudi Table experience not only celebrates Saudi Arabia’s food culture but also acts as a gateway for future tourism flows. Visitors interested in the rich culinary heritage of the kingdom may be encouraged to travel to Saudi Arabia to experience its diverse culinary landscape, from the spices of Riyadh to the fresh seafood of the Red Sea coast.

In addition to promoting Saudi Arabia as a cultural destination, the residency’s emphasis on hospitality, shared dining, and regional diversity also sets the stage for an evolving tourism model that brings global travelers closer to Saudi Arabia’s traditions, culinary history, and contemporary offerings.

Growing Interest in Culinary Tourism in Saudi Arabia

Culinary tourism has become one of the most popular travel trends in recent years, as more travelers seek authentic experiences tied to food, culture, and local heritage. Saudi Arabia, with its rich history and diverse culinary traditions, is well-positioned to tap into this global trend. The Saudi Tourism Authority’s initiatives, like The Saudi Table, are helping position the kingdom as a top culinary destination, catering to travelers who are eager to explore new flavors and experience local food culture in its traditional and modern forms.

With events like these, Saudi Arabia is stepping up its efforts to attract tourists not only interested in its famous historical landmarks but also in the rich and evolving food culture. As the country continues to make strides in developing its tourism sector, initiatives like The Saudi Table will likely play an important role in showcasing its authenticity and diverse offerings to the world.

A Taste of Saudi Arabia’s Culinary Future

The Saudi Table culinary residency, which is being executed under the guidance of Chef Kunal Kapur, gives a very exciting insight into the food culture present in Saudi Arabia. Through such initiatives, where an attempt is being made to introduce Saudi cuisine to the Indian market, including culinary travel programs, the Saudi Tourism Authority is playing a very important role in establishing such a platform where there can be an exchange of culture in terms of food and interest in Saudi Arabia as a food and travel destination. Through food, culture, and hospitality, The Saudi Table is all set to become an important part of Saudi Arabia’s tourism in the coming years.