Food History of Madain Saleh (AlHijr), Al Ula, Saudi Arabia

Located in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, the ancient city of Madain Saleh, also known as AlHijr, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once inhabited by the Nabataeans, the same civilization that built the famous city of Petra in Jordan. The region around Al Ula is steeped in history and cultural exchanges, which is reflected in its traditional cuisine. Saudi Arabian food is a blend of Arab, Turkish, and Persian culinary traditions.

Agriculture in the Al Ula valley has traditionally been important and features ancient farming methods. The food culture in the region relies heavily on dates, grains, and fresh fruits, which were historically traded along the incense route. With the introduction of Islam, certain dietary laws influenced the food culture, including the exclusion of pork and the halal method of slaughtering animals. The remote nature of Al Ula has helped preserve many of its traditional dishes, which are now enjoyed by visitors to Madain Saleh and the surrounding areas.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Madain Saleh (AlHijr), Al Ula, Saudi Arabia

1. Kabsa (Non-Veg) - Aromatic rice cooked with spices and served with chicken or lamb. This is the national dish of Saudi Arabia.
2. Shawarma (Non-Veg) - Middle Eastern wrap made with chicken or other meats, usually served with hummus and tahini.
3. Mutabbaq (Non-Veg/Veg options) - Stuffed pancake or bread which can have various fillings, including minced meat or vegetables.
4. Falafel (Veg) - Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas, often served in a pita or with salads.
5. Hummus (Veg) - A spread made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and garlic.
6. Tabouleh (Veg) - A Levantine vegetarian salad made of tomatoes, finely chopped parsley, mint, bulgur, and onion, and seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
7. Warak Enab (Veg) - Rice stuffed grape leaves, usually served cold as an appetizer.
8. Manakeesh (Veg/Non-Veg options) - A popular Levantine food consisting of dough topped with cheese, herbs, or ground meat.
9. Al Harees (Non-Veg) - A dish made with wheat, meat, and a pinch of salt, known for its lengthy preparation.
10. Umm Ali (Veg) - A delicious traditional dessert similar to bread pudding, featuring pastry, milk, and nuts.

Top Famous Restaurants in Madain Saleh (AlHijr), Al Ula, Saudi Arabia

• Al-Makhrour Restaurant
  Address: Al Ula, Saudi Arabia
  Famous Dish: Kabsa (Non-Veg)
• Old Town Market
  Address: Al Ula Old Town, Al Ula, Saudi Arabia
  Famous Dish: Shawarma (Non-Veg)
• Sunrise Restaurant
  Address: Winter Park, Al Ula, Saudi Arabia
  Famous Dish: Manakeesh (Veg/Non-Veg options)
• AlDiwan Restaurant
  Address: Elephant Rock, Al Ula, Saudi Arabia
  Famous Dish: Mutabbaq (Non-Veg/Veg options)
• The Heritage Village Restaurant
  Address: Near Madain Saleh, Al Ula, Saudi Arabia
  Famous Dish: Traditional Saudi Platter (Non-Veg)