September 15, 2024 | Press Release

The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) recently orchestrated a series of exclusive culinary and coffee appreciation events aimed at strengthening ties with Indian travel trade partners. These events, titled ‘Epicurean Saudi’ and ‘Brewtopia – A Qahwa Experience’, took place in Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi, offering attendees a tantalising glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s rich gastronomic heritage and diverse flavours.

The highlight of the series was ‘Epicurean Saudi’, a lavish dining event held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Mumbai. Guests were treated to an extraordinary culinary experience curated by Chef Rakan Aloraifi, a two-time winner of the Best Saudi Chef award. Chef Aloraifi, who traveled from Riyadh, presented his innovative interpretations of traditional Saudi dishes, blending history with contemporary techniques. He was joined by Chef Surabhi, whose flair for fusion cuisine added a fresh twist to the event. The evening celebrated the deep culinary ties between India and Saudi Arabia, showcasing how food can transcend borders and bring cultures closer together.

This event is part of STA’s broader effort to position Saudi Arabia as a premier travel destination. By offering a firsthand taste of Saudi’s evolving food scene, the STA aims to inspire Indian travel trade professionals to promote Saudi as a must-visit destination for their clients, highlighting not only its rich heritage but also its modern culinary creativity.

In Bengaluru and Delhi, the focus shifted to Saudi’s ancient coffee traditions with ‘Brewtopia – A Qahwa Experience’. Over 50 members of travel trade associations gathered to learn about the history of Saudi coffee and witness a traditional qahwa preparation. Led by coffee experts Ganga and Pavan, founders of Coffee Mechanics and Kana, the event offered a deep dive into Saudi’s coffee culture, followed by an engaging networking session.

These immersive events come on the heels of Saudi’s first-ever integrated consumer campaign in India, ‘Spectacular Saudi’. The campaign shines a spotlight on Saudi Arabia’s diverse offerings, from the historic streets of Jeddah’s Al Balad to the Red Sea’s pristine waters, making it a top destination for Indian travellers seeking a blend of ancient history and modern marvels.