Empowering communities and protecting heritage

Ark of Taste

The Ark of Taste is a global Slow Food initiative that catalogs and celebrates small-scale, high-quality foods rooted in the cultures, histories, and traditions of communities worldwide. This extraordinary collection now explores Saudi Arabia’s rich culinary tradition which unexpectedly includes fruits, vegetables, animal breeds, cheeses, breads, sweets, cured meats and more, highlighting an irreplaceable heritage at risk of vanishing.

The Saudi Arabia Ark of Taste book developed in the framework of the project illustrates and describe more than 60 products that are at the heart of local cuisine’s favors, by cataloging regional delicacies at risk of being forgotten and explaining their value and uniqueness. Download and enjoy this unique path across tradition.

Travel Destinations

Travel destinations in Saudi Arabia are uniquely positioned to embrace the philosophy of Slow Food Travel, offering an immersive journey into the Kingdom’s rich heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant local cultures. By engaging with local farmers, artisans, and culinary experts, travelers can experience Saudi Arabia’s unique food traditions and biodiversity firsthand.

Visitors can explore iconic destinations like Asir and Diriyah, the cradle of Saudi heritage, while connecting with cheesemakers, bakers, and craftspeople who represent the heart of regional traditions. This approach not only showcases the diversity of Saudi Arabia’s gastronomic heritage but also fosters meaningful connections between travelers and local communities.

Guided by the principles of Slow Food Travel, these destinations emphasize sustainable tourism, helping protect local identities and biodiversity. From the Red Sea coast to the vast Rub’ al Khali desert, Saudi Arabia offers transformative experiences that blend cultural appreciation with support for traditional practices, creating memorable and environmentally conscious travel.

Cook’s Alliance

The Cook’s Alliance in Saudi Arabia is at present the wider international chef’s Slow Food initiative, bringing together more than 130 chefs, culinary professionals, and food enthusiasts to celebrate and promote the rich culinary heritage of the Kingdom. It fosters collaboration among local and international chefs to preserve traditional Saudi recipes while encouraging innovation in modern gastronomy. By emphasizing the use of locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices, the alliance aims to showcase the diverse flavors of Saudi cuisine on a global stage, supporting the country’s growing reputation as a gastronomic hub in the Middle East. Through events, workshops, and cultural exchanges, it nurtures talent and deepens appreciation for Saudi culinary traditions.