
The 16th edition of Kleija Festival has kicked off in Buraidah City, celebrating the signature dish of Al Qassim Region.
The Kleija Festival is running from January 31 to February 9, 2025, under the patronage of the Qassim Region’s Governor, Prince Faisal bin Mishal bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, according to the Saudi Press agency (SPA). The Saudi Culinary Arts Commission is participating as a strategic partner.
#SaudiCulinaryArtsCommission participates as a strategic partner in the 16th edition of the Klija Festival, aiming to highlight the region's cultural heritage and showcase Klija as a signature dish of Al-Qassim. pic.twitter.com/MHX9DVDcik
— هيئة فنون الطهي (@MOCCulinary) January 30, 2025
Buraidah, one of UNESCO’s Creative Cities, is hosting the Kleija Festival 2025. The annual event aims to highlight the cultural heritage of Al Qassim, by offering an enriching cultural experience that displays Saudi Arabia’s traditional culinary arts and celebrates Kleija as Al Qassim’s official traditional dish.
Kleija is a popular dessert in Al Qassim. The sweet cookie combines Saudi Arabia’s traditional flavors and ingredients, such as dates, cardamom, and cinnamon. Kleija has been included in the UNESCO’s Breads of the Creative Cities initiative to represent the heritage of Buraidah.

The festival features live cooking shows; hospitality lounges; bakery, factory, and company exhibitions; and food trucks to showcase Kleija and promote the products of productive families. Moreover, the Kleija Festival includes various activities, such as live cultural and entertainment performances designed to offer a rich and interactive experience.
The participation of the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission in Kleija Festival 2025 highlights its efforts to support culinary events and festivals across the Kingdom. The Commission has launched programs and initiatives to support food festivals across Saudi Arabia and showcase the Kingdom’s traditional dishes.