The International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism (IGCAT) has officially awarded Jeddah and Taif the prestigious World Region of Gastronomy 2027 title, recognizing the cities’ success in meeting IGCAT’s standards for sustainable regional development through gastronomy across economic, cultural, social, and environmental pillars.
This milestone represents a major step in highlighting Saudi Arabia’s rich culinary heritage on the global stage. It builds on the Aseer Region’s achievement of the same title in 2024 and reflects the growing participation of Saudi regions in international initiatives. The recognition underscores gastronomy’s role as a powerful driver of cultural preservation and sustainable development.
The award is the result of coordinated efforts led by the Culinary Arts Commission, in collaboration with key partners including King Abdulaziz University, Dar Al-Hekma University, the Jeddah Governorate Development Authority, and several local companies. These partnerships have supported education, innovation, and skills development, reinforced cultural identity, and connected gastronomy with tourism and community engagement.
The designation followed an on-site evaluation visit by an IGCAT jury of experts to Jeddah and Taif, during which they met with local stakeholders to assess the cities’ readiness to carry the title. The visit highlighted the regions’ strong commitment to celebrating culinary and cultural diversity, protecting the environment, preserving heritage, and empowering youth to lead innovation in support of sustainable tourism.
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