Jeddah and Taif awarded World Region of Gastronomy 2027 title by IGCAT

SPA

JEDDAH, February 6, 2026 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – The International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism (IGCAT) awarded Jeddah and Taif the title of World Region of Gastronomy 2027 after both cities met the institute’s criteria for sustainable regional development through gastronomy.

The designation covers economic, cultural, social and environmental dimensions, and marks a new milestone for Saudi culinary-sector visibility on international platforms.

The recognition follows Aseer Region’s earlier selection as a World Region of Gastronomy in 2024, reinforcing Saudi participation in global gastronomy programs linked to culture preservation and sustainable development.

The bid was led by the Culinary Arts Commission in partnership with entities including King Abdulaziz University, Dar Al-Hekma University, the Jeddah Governorate Development Authority and local private-sector partners, with a focus on education, innovation, skills development and stronger links between gastronomy, tourism and community engagement.

The award process included a field assessment by an IGCAT expert jury in Jeddah and Taif, with stakeholder meetings reviewing readiness, culinary and cultural diversity, environmental priorities, heritage preservation and youth-focused innovation.