Central – Inauguration of “Horeka Riyadh 2024” and Chocolate Exhibition
The HORECA Riyadh 2024 exhibition started today at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center. It is the thirteenth session of this event and has an impressive attendance, including Mayada Badr, CEO of the Culinary Authority, and Prince Alwaleed bin Nasser, Founder and CEO of Mukatfa, along with many ambassadors and important figures.
The Chocolate and Sweets Exhibition is also taking place, adding a new focus on desserts and sweet treats. This event highlights the art of confectionery and includes a competition for top Saudi chefs, making it a key occasion in Saudi Arabia for hospitality, food, and beverages. The exhibition is held in partnership with the Culinary Authority and runs until November 27.
This year’s HORECA is the largest ever, covering 29,000 square meters. It features over 400 exhibitors and showcases 20,000 brands from 48 countries in 8 international pavilions. This diversity reflects both culture and innovation in the hospitality and food industries.
During the opening day, Mayada Badr received recognition for her work in promoting food culture in Saudi Arabia. The first day also included competitions, performances, and workshops. Participants showed their skills in cooking, coffee preparation, and mocktail design, competing before an international judging panel.
What are the key highlights of HORECA Riyadh 2024 that attendees should not miss?
Exclusive Interview: Insights from Culinary Authority CEO Mayada Badr at HORECA Riyadh 2024
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Mayada. The HORECA Riyadh 2024 exhibition has officially begun, and it seems like a monumental event. Can you share your thoughts on this year’s exhibition and its significance for the culinary scene in Saudi Arabia?
Mayada Badr: Thank you for having me. This year’s HORECA exhibition is truly remarkable and marks a significant step forward in promoting our culinary heritage. With over 400 exhibitors and representation from 48 countries, it is inspiring to see such diversity and innovation in our food and hospitality sectors. This event is not just about showcasing products; it’s a celebration of food culture and the culinary arts that resonates deeply within our community.
Interviewer: The inclusion of the Chocolate and Sweets Exhibition adds another layer of excitement. What do you think this focus on desserts brings to the audience and the industry?
Mayada Badr: Absolutely. The emphasis on desserts and sweets is an excellent addition to the event. It highlights the crucial role that pastry arts play in our culinary landscape. The competition for top Saudi chefs in this category fosters creativity and encourages the exploration of new trends and techniques in confectionery. It’s a fantastic platform for our local chefs to showcase their talents and draw inspiration from international trends.
Interviewer: On the first day, you were recognized for your contributions to promoting food culture. How does it feel to receive such an acknowledgment, and what does it mean for your ongoing efforts?
Mayada Badr: It is both an honor and a responsibility. Recognition encourages me to continue advocating for food culture in Saudi Arabia. My goal has always been to elevate our culinary narrative and enhance the skills of our chefs. This acknowledgment serves as a reminder that our collective efforts in fostering a vibrant food scene are being noticed and appreciated.
Interviewer: Could you elaborate on the events scheduled in the coming days? What should attendees look forward to?
Mayada Badr: Over the next three days, we have an exciting lineup of more than 40 events, including competitions, workshops, and discussions. Attendees can look forward to engaging presentations from leading pastry chefs who will showcase their innovations in the sweet realm. The Saudi Culinary Challenge, judged by esteemed chefs, is another highlight that allows participants to shine and demonstrate their skills in front of recognized figures in the culinary industry. Additionally, “The Talks” will cover contemporary issues in hospitality, giving insights into future trends.
Interviewer: HORECA Riyadh has traditionally served as a networking platform for professionals. How do you see this aspect evolving in 2024?
Mayada Badr: The networking opportunities at HORECA Riyadh are unparalleled. This year, with such a diverse representation, participants can establish valuable connections that can lead to strategic partnerships. The conversations and collaborations that occur here can significantly shape the future of the hospitality and food sectors, not just in Saudi Arabia, but regionally and globally. It’s essential for fostering growth and innovation in our industry.
Interviewer: how do you envision the future of the Saudi culinary scene, and what role will events like HORECA play in that evolution?
Mayada Badr: I envision a vibrant and diverse culinary scene that continues to draw from our rich heritage while embracing global influences. Events like HORECA are vital for this evolution; they serve as catalysts for change, encouraging innovation, skill development, and community engagement. As we continue to invest in our culinary education and promote our local talents, I am excited to see where this journey will take us.
Interviewer: Thank you, Mayada, for sharing your insights. We look forward to seeing how HORECA Riyadh 2024 unfolds in the coming days!
Mayada Badr: Thank you for having me. I’m equally excited and can’t wait to see the magic that unfolds at this incredible exhibition!
Over the next three days, the Chocolate and Sweets Exhibition will host more than 40 events. Leading pastry chefs will present their latest creations and discuss trends in chocolates and sweets. Competitions will feature renowned judges, offering chefs a valuable opportunity to showcase their talents.
Additionally, the event will include “The Talks,” featuring discussions on current topics with experts in the field. In the coming days, participants will take part in the Saudi Culinary Challenge, judged by a panel of esteemed chefs.
HORECA Riyadh serves as an excellent platform for networking and forming strategic partnerships in the food and beverage sectors. The event strengthens Riyadh’s reputation as a vital hub for hospitality regionally and globally.