Must-Try Foods In Al Ula (Saudi Arabia) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Al Ula, Saudi Arabia

Al Ula, located in the Medina Region in north-western Saudi Arabia, boasts a rich history that extends to its culinary tradition. As an ancient crossroads for trade routes, Al Ula has been influenced by a myriad of cultures over centuries. Traditional food of this region is centered around the ingredients that are available in this desert environment, including dates, wheat, barley, and an assortment of fruits and vegetables. Herding animals also played a role in the diet, providing dairy products and meat, except for cow, which isn't traditionally consumed in the region. Arabian hospitality is also central to the food culture in Al Ula, with an emphasis on sharing meals with family and guests.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Al Ula, Saudi Arabia

• Kabsa: Often considered the national dish of Saudi Arabia, Kabsa is a flavorful mixed rice dish with aromatic spices and lamb or chicken (Non-Veg).
• Mutabbaq: A stuffed pancake that can be filled with a variety of ingredients, true to its meaning "folded" (Veg option available).
• Hummus: A well-known Middle Eastern dip made from chickpeas and tahini, usually served with flatbread (Veg).
• Manakeesh: Flatbread topped with various ingredients such as cheese, thyme, or ground meat, similar to a pizza (Veg and Non-Veg options).
• Falafel: Deep-fried balls or patties made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, often served in pita bread (Veg).
• Shawarma: A popular street food, typically made with marinated chicken, lamb, or other meats, and served in flatbread with vegetables (Non-Veg).
• Samboosa: A savory fried pastry filled with spiced meat, cheese, or vegetables, resembling Indian samosas (Veg and Non-Veg options).
• Tabbouleh: A fresh salad made with bulgur, finely chopped parsley, mint, tomato, and onion, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice (Veg).
• Umm Ali: A warm, comforting dessert made with puff pastry, milk, sugar, and nuts, akin to a Middle Eastern bread pudding (Veg).
• Baba Ghanoush: A smoky eggplant dip blended with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, served with flatbread (Veg).

Top Famous Restaurants in Al Ula, Saudi Arabia

• Old Town Café
  Address: Al Ula Old Town, Al Ula.
  Famous Food: Offers traditional Saudi cuisine and international dishes (Veg and Non-Veg options).
• Maraya Social
  Address: Al Madinah Al Munawwarah Rd, Ash Sharaḩ, Al Ula.
  Famous Food: Contemporary dishes curated by a world-renowned chef (Veg and Non-Veg options).
• Suhail
  Address: Winter Park, Al Ula.
  Famous Food: Fine dining with local and seasonal produce highlighting Arabian flavors (Veg and Non-Veg options).
• Al Makher Café
  Address: Prince Abdul Majeed Rd, Al Ula.
  Famous Food: Known for great coffee and light meals, perfect for a quick snack or a refreshing beverage (Veg and Non-Veg options).
• Harrat Cuisine
  Address: Harrat Al Birkat, Al Ula.
  Famous Food: Local traditional dishes that give a true taste of Saudi heritage (Veg and Non-Veg options).