Many UK pilgrims who book All Inclusive Umrah Deal often take the chance to savour the authentic flavours of Saudi Arabia after completing their sacred journey. It’s a beautiful way to embrace the local culture, enjoy traditional dishes, and create lasting memories beyond the spiritual experience. This article covers how you can explore the local hospitality and experience Saudi Arabia beyond its spirituality. Keep reading till the end to learn about the flavours you can enjoy after doing Umrah.
Contents
Famous Dishes Not to Miss
Saudi Arabia is known to have some of the world’s best flavours. Although there are many varieties, some of them should not be missed in any case.
- The national dish of Saudi Arabia, known as Kabsa, is worth the first shot. This is the most famous rice dish in the country that is made using rice, chicken, spices and tomatoes as main ingredients. A unique thing about Kabsa is that it is served in a large dish to symbolise unity and joy. It is quite similar to the Mandi or Mathbi and differs in the cooking style.
- You can also try Jareesh, which is made by a delicious blend of meat, yoghurt and spices. This one has the most popularity in the central part of Saudi Arabia. Locals thus call it a comforting and hearty meal.
- People often hear about Saleeg, especially when they visit the Hijaz region. This is a saucy dish that is cooked using milk, rice and chicken broth.
- Mutabbaq is the perfect food for those who have a limited budget to spend on food after Umrah. These look like a stuffed pancake that brims with onions, mild spices and minced meat. You will find different food stalls of Mutabbaq in Madinah.
- Matazeez is another dish made with special Arabic spices, vegetables and lamb. We suggest trying this one on the cool evenings in Saudi Arabia.
Sweet Dishes
Everyone loves to enjoy the sweet dish after a hefty meal or to satisfy their cravings.
- Saudi Arabia is famous for a variety of dates that have a high demand all over the world. People love to store their favourite kind of date like Sukkari and Ajwa. These dates develop a connection to Islam and are considered a symbol of blessing.
- Kunafa is one of the famous sweet dishes in the country and is no less than a retreat for food lovers. You will love its crisp and soft surface which is an interesting thing about this dish. This one is made with cheese and is dipped in a syrup for a while before serving.
- Basbousa is a semolina cake that delivers the taste of coconut and rose water.
- Go for tasting the Luqaimat if you are craving a taste of honey.
- Last but not least, Saudi qahwa is an unbeatable one. This is the most common drink that is made using coffee, saffron and cardamom. Enjoy this qahwa with your favourite date for a memorable experience.
Food Highlights in Different Cities
Let’s delve deeper into the culinary options in the major cities of Saudi Arabia. You can get access to many food options around your hotel after booking the best premium Umrah deals. People can benefit from many restaurants and local food spots to try different food according to their budget and cravings.
In Makkah
This city offers different spots for trying the famous Hejazi cuisine. It efficiently blends the local and foreign cooking styles. There are numerous food spots here where you can enjoy authentic Saudi cuisine. You can thus head to the Albaik, Bukhari restaurant and the famous Mandi House. The Ajyad area has a street food hub that offers tasty food like shawarma, fresh juices and falafel. Do not forget to taste the unique creamy flavour of Saleeg, which is a delicious rice dish famous in the western region of the country.
In Madinah
Madinah is no less than anyone in offering finger-licking food. Although there is a variety of food here but the most popular ones are the Mutabbaq, grilled Kebabs and fresh juices. The best thing is that Madinah is a production house of dates that is highly beneficial for spiritual and health growth. People love the Ajwa dates because of their tremendous health benefits. We suggest going to the Quba Market and Taiba Commercial Centre to explore local food stalls while shopping with your loved ones.
In Jeddah
Jeddah is known for its delicious seafood and other coastal cuisine. We suggest trying the grilled hammour fish and shrimp Kabsa. If you love to have a combination of fish and rice, then give Sayadiya a shot. The Al Balad area is known best for traditional food, while Corniche restaurants are best known for modern dining. Head to the famous food spots named Al Nakheel restaurant, Toki and The Social Kitchen for an ultimate food experience.
Modern Dining Experiences
Saudi Arabia never disappoints those UK pilgrims who look for a modern dining spot. You will find many exceptional restaurants in the country that offer a perfect local and foreign influence. Many Michelin-style restaurants in Jeddah and Riyadh offer a premium ambience and diverse menus. Want to know some of the best ones out there?
Riyadh has a famous food spot named Myazu, where you can get the infusion of Saudi and Japanese flavours. You can head to Sum + Things restaurant in Riyadh to explore modern dining with Arabian touches. Food lovers can head to the Al Orjouan in Riyadh to enjoy a luxury buffet. On top of that, many cafes in the country are known for serving the best coffee with desserts.
Edible Souvenirs to Take Home
People go shopping after Umrah and also buy some souvenirs to take home. It is not just limited to the tasbeeh or a prayer mat, but people can now take some special eatables to their hometown. People buy the best Ajwa dates from Madinah, which is one of the most popular gifts among the pilgrims. Those who visit this country also pack spices and Arabic coffee to take with them. It keeps them connected to the country and they feel a nostalgic vibe after consumption.
Do not miss buying honey during your visit to Taif or the Asir mountains. Although it is expensive, its purity makes it highly valued. It is not good to leave kids behind, right? Pack sweets like Luqaimat mix and Maamoul biscuits to make them happy. You can also buy perfumed oils from Saudi Arabia that you can use for cooking after coming back home. It helps you build a strong, natural connection to the place where you spend many memorable moments.
Culture Values Linked to Dining
It is good practice to follow the cultural norms of the country you visit. Saudi Arabia is an Islamic country and has some cultural norms linked to dining. You thus need to be careful about following them, especially when you are eating in public. The first thing you need to follow is to eat with your right hand, even if your dominant hand is left.
The other thing is about sharing your food. It is considered a symbol of hospitality and even food is often served in communal platters. Saudi Arabia follows strict rules, due to which most food spots are closed during prayer timings. You should also respect religious values and find a spot out of the prayer timings.
Make sure to dress according to the cultural norms in Saudi Arabia. Pay special attention while packing because wearing revealing clothes is not normal in this country. Wasting food is highly discouraged there so try to pack the leftovers instead of throwing them away.
Wrap UpAre you looking for the perfect Affordable Umrah Packages 2025 to begin your spiritual journey? After completing your sacred rituals, take a moment to discover Saudi Arabia’s local food spots and enjoy the authentic taste of its traditional dishes. Whether it is about the spicy food or the sweet dishes, its flavourful bites never disappoint you. Choose Muslims Holy Travel to commence a stress-free journey to Saudi Arabia.
