In recent years, the culinary scene in Saudi Arabia has witnessed a transformation, driven largely by talented female chefs who are challenging norms and redefining the kitchen landscape.
Here are some of the standout chefs making waves in the Kingdom.
Asma Abdulhadi Tabaaji, at just 27 years old, exemplifies resilience and passion. After losing her parents at a young age, she found solace in cooking, turning her childhood challenges into a thriving career.
Starting from her home kitchen, Tabaaji discovered her passion for cooking under challenging circumstances, having taken on kitchen responsibilities as a child after losing her parents.
She then began selling traditional Saudi dishes, and eventually made her way as a chef into prestigious hotels like Hyatt Regency and Fairmont. Now the head chef at Premier Catering, she oversees major events and aspires to open her own restaurant.
Another inspiring figure is Noura AlGhushairy, who travels across Saudi Arabia to document the country’s diverse culinary traditions.
With a background in nutrition from Stanford, Noura goes beyond cooking; she educates young women about kitchen management and recipe development. For her, food is a connection to heritage and a bridge between the past and future, ensuring that Saudi culinary traditions are preserved.
Meitha Yaseen’s journey took her from AlUla (the arabian oasis city and governorate located in Medina Province) to France, where she honed her skills through a prestigious scholarship at Ferrandi Paris, one of France’s leading training schools.
Today, she serves as chef de partie at Joontos restaurant in AlUla. Her experiences abroad and her Bedouin heritage inspire her cooking, as she strives to honor her family’s traditions while embracing modern culinary techniques.
Another key figure in the scene is Dhoha Abdullah who stands out as the first Saudi female chef to head a hotel restaurant. With culinary training in Lebanon and India, she has become a role model for aspiring women in the hospitality industry, demonstrating that leadership positions are attainable for women in Saudi Arabia.
Sama Jad broke barriers as the first Saudi woman to compete on “Top Chef.” Her participation was more than just a competition; it was about representation and inspiring young women to pursue their culinary dreams. Sama’s journey reflects the growing acceptance and encouragement for women in professional kitchens.
Amna Alyamani returned to Saudi Arabia after completing her MBA, motivated to empower women through her bakery-café in Jeddah. Focused on creating job opportunities, her establishment employs women exclusively, starting with three employees in the first year and planned growth to nine in the third year. Amna Bakery, founded in September 2019, aims to foster an inclusive environment in the hospitality industry, allowing women to develop their skills while producing high-quality baked goods.
Hala Ayash’s culinary creations pay tribute to Saudi heritage by highlighting the beauty of traditional flavors. With a strong foundation in Saudi culture, she is renowned for her participation in regional cooking competitions, where she showcases the rich tastes of her homeland. Through her work, she brings the spirit of Saudi Arabia to life, one dish at a time.
These remarkable women are at the forefront of a culinary revolution in Saudi Arabia, transforming the industry and paving the way for future generations.
While they continue to break down barriers and redefine the culinary arts, their stories serve as a beacon of hope for aspiring chefs across the Kingdom.
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