Exploring the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Food Scene

After our long and fulfilling hajj journey, one thing we were looking forward to was experiencing the local cuisine in Saudi Arabia. However, as South Africans, we have different taste preferences and finding food that suits our palate can sometimes be a challenge. Luckily, we came across a few food outlets that catered to our tastes.

One such place was the restaurant at the Elaf Taqwa Hotel in Medina. This restaurant served traditional Cape Malay dishes, known for their unique blend of flavours and spices. The buffet-style restaurant offered a taste of home for South African pilgrims with fragrant curries, breyani, naan bread, and more.

For those craving fast food options like pizza or crispy chicken and burgers, there were eateries available near Cuba Front, such as Texas Chicken and Domino’s Pizza. Ice Cream Al Asema was our favourite spot in Medina, where we could enjoy icy slush puppies during the hot days.

In Mecca, Kudu and Hardees are highly recommended for their specific menu items. Kudu is known for its shawarma, which is a popular Middle Eastern dish made with thin slices of seasoned meat (usually chicken or lamb) served in pita bread with various toppings and sauces. If you are a fan of this type of cuisine, trying Kudu’s shawarma can be a great experience.  On the other hand, Hardees is famous for its beef burgers. If you enjoy juicy and flavourful burgers, Hardees might be the place to go. They offer a variety of burger options that cater to different preferences and taste.

While famous international fast-food chains like KFC, Burger King, and McDonald’s are also available, it is important to note that the taste of their offerings can indeed vary from country to country. These fast-food chains often adapt their menus to cater to local tastes and preferences.

While Saudi Arabia guarantees strict halaal policies, it is also heart-warming to know that there are food outlets catering to the diverse tastes of South African pilgrims. These establishments not only provide a taste of home but also serve as a meeting point for hajjis from different backgrounds, allowing us to bond over our shared love for good food.

We would like to express our gratitude to Flywell travel, Sahuc, and the Saudi hajj ministry for organizing such a well-planned journey. Our hajj experience was truly unforgettable, and these culinary delights added an extra layer of joy to our pilgrimage.

To all future Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, make sure to download our app before your departure, as it will provide an extensive directory of restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors available in the holy cities. From mouthwatering kebabs to delightful desserts, we strive to ensure that your culinary experiences remain memorable throughout your pilgrimage.