RIYADH — The International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts, and Tourism (IGCAT) announced that the Saudi cities of Jeddah and Taif have been awarded the title of World Region of Gastronomy 2027. This is after their meeting of the institute’s criteria that support sustainable regional development through gastronomy across the economic, cultural, social, and environmental domains.The recognition highlights the role of cuisine in preserving culture, empowering communities, and supporting sustainable development. Jeddah and Taif are among the regions recognized under this designation, which is granted to regions that have joined the IGCAT’s platform and fulfilled its established criteria. The platform supports sustainable regional development through the culinary arts by integrating economic, cultural, social, and environmental development efforts. This achievement represents a significant milestone for the region within the global culinary landscape. It builds on the legacy of Asir, which was awarded the title of World Region of Gastronomy in 2024, and reflects the continued participation of Saudi regions in this international platform. This achievement is the result of efforts led by the Culinary Arts Commission in partnership with with stakeholders including King Abdulaziz University, Dar Al-Hekma University, the Jeddah Governorate Development Authority, and several local companies. The partners collectively contributed to advancing education, innovation, and skills development, strengthening cultural identity, and reinforcing the connection between cuisine, cultural storytelling, responsible tourism, community engagement, and the celebration of local identity. A panel of expert judges from the Institute visited Jeddah and Taif and met with local stakeholders to assess the cities’ readiness to hold the title. The visit highlighted the region’s commitment to promoting local cultural and culinary diversity, safeguarding biodiversity and environmental protection, preserving heritage and traditional knowledge, and empowering younger generations to develop innovative products and services that contribute to sustainable tourism. Through this recognition, Jeddah and Taif look forward to collaborating with global culinary regions to promote sustainable food practices, support local food systems, enhance food education and research, and position cuisine as a tool for cultural exchange and responsible tourism. These efforts will contribute to the development of long-term strategies that place cuisine at the core of cultural preservation, economic diversification, and intercultural dialogue.It is noteworthy that IGCAT aims to empower local communities by raising awareness of the importance to protect and promote distinct regional food, culture, arts and natural assets as part of sustainable and balanced tourism and development strategies. This is essential to safeguard planet, health, wellness and local economies.
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