Saudi Arabia Elevates Culinary Heritage as a Source of National Pride and Economic Growth

SAUDI ARABIA ELEVATES CULINARY HERITAGE AS A SOURCE OF NATIONAL PRIDE AND ECONOMIC GROWTH

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture, through its Culinary Arts Commission, has unveiled six landmark national studies mapping the transformation of the Kingdom’s culinary economy.

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture, through its Culinary Arts Commission, has unveiled six national studies mapping the transformation of the Kingdom’s culinary economy. Released in Riyadh on 17 August, the reports outline how restaurants, SMEs, workforce development, technology adoption, and tourism are converging into a high-growth sector that strengthens Saudi Arabia’s role as a regional leader. Designed as a resource for investors, entrepreneurs, and senior executives, the findings equip decision-makers with data-driven insights to craft policy, strategy, and scalable ventures in alignment with Vision 2030.
The findings show that Saudi culinary heritage is evolving into both a cultural emblem and an economic force. With more than 72% of the Kingdom’s professional chefs under the age of 35, the sector is becoming a showcase of youth empowerment. The reports also spotlight urgent challenges such as food waste and sustainability, while identifying opportunities in tourism, hospitality, and agri-tech to strengthen national resilience.

Mayada Badr, CEO of the Culinary Arts Commission, said:
"Saudi cuisine embodies both our heritage and our ambition. By combining research with policy action, we are equipping the next generation with skills and pathways that will sustain our culture and contribute to the Kingdom’s economic transformation. These reports provide a roadmap for Saudi talent, entrepreneurs, and innovators to shape the future of our nation’s food culture."
Beyond lifestyle, the impact is measurable. Artificial intelligence is reshaping Saudi kitchens, with pilots cutting food waste by nearly a third and streamlining supply chains. The effect runs wider than the plate: reduced costs release capital for hiring, while elevated dining standards encourage visitors to stay longer and spend more. Tourism already accounts for a rising share of GDP, and with the sector on course to generate more than a million jobs by 2030, culinary AI is emerging as an unlikely driver of the Kingdom’s economic transformation.
The Commission will integrate the findings into nationwide youth training programmes, SME accelerators, and international collaborations, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s role as a cultural and economic leader. By aligning research with Vision 2030 priorities, the reports transform culinary heritage into a national asset that inspires pride and contributes to long-term prosperity.