Latest news with #UmAli
CairoScene
17-05-2025
- Business
- CairoScene
Mayada Badr is Mapping a Past & a Future For Saudi Culinary Heritage
Mayada Badr is Mapping a Past & a Future For Saudi Culinary Heritage Cordon Bleu graduate, founder of Pink Camel and now CEO of the Culinary Arts Commission, Mayada Badr is answering a question that has rarely been asked before - how to enact a culinary renaissance? When Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Culture set about creating 11 new cultural commissions, they imagined something unprecedented: a body dedicated to preserving, codifying, and celebrating the nation's culinary heritage. There was no blueprint to follow. No global precedent. It required a leader with a rare combination of imagination, resilience, and deep cultural grounding. It required someone like Mayada Badr. Badr's path was anything but traditional. A Parsons School of Design graduate with a passion for culinary creation, she spent her lunch breaks experimenting in the kitchen before formally training at Le Cordon Bleu. After interning in French restaurants, Badr returned home to Saudi Arabia, determined to give back. There, she founded Pink Camel, a fusion patisserie blending classic French technique with local flavours. Think kunafa macarons and Um Ali croissants. As her business grew, so did her influence, leading to government consulting work abroad. Then one day, the Ministry of Culture called - not to simply consult, but to lead. 'I wanted to make sure this was for the industry,' Badr tells SceneNowSaudi. 'I was just happy to talk, to be able to suggest how the culinary industry could be fixed.' When Badr reflects on her greatest milestone, she points not to a singular project, but to the Commission itself. Culinary arts, she notes, are an endangered industry. Across the globe, traditional foodways are eroding. In Saudi Arabia, the Culinary Arts Commission is racing to document, preserve, and revitalise them before they are lost. 'Preservation is a major pillar of our strategy,' Badr shares. 'We wanted to know what Saudi cuisine is, what our heritage is. We were uncovering our culture.' Under Badr's leadership, the Commission spent two and a half years conducting a monumental survey. Across all 13 regions of the Kingdom, researchers visited homes, learnt from the oldest families, listened to oral histories, consulted poetic sources, historic texts, and travel writings. The result? A living archive of 1,300 recipes and heritage ingredients, meticulously mapped and recorded. The work did not stop at documentation. In collaboration with UNESCO's intangible heritage initiatives, Badr spearheaded a Food Atlas project - a platform enabling nations to catalog and preserve their culinary traditions. Saudi cuisine, long overlooked internationally, is now not only entering the global stage, but it's supporting a global movement. 'Food truly has no borders,' Badr asserts. Saudi chefs now participate annually in festivals like Taste of London and Taste of Paris, introducing global audiences to the complexity and richness of Saudi flavours. At the same time, domestic initiatives like Irth - a restaurant-shop-training-centre hybrid staffed entirely by Saudis - and the Saudi Feast Food Festival, which offers visitors an all-day, one-stop taste of all thirteen regions, ensure that culinary traditions continue to thrive at home. Through documentary films, television series, open-access recipe archives, and dynamic food events, Badr's Commission is leading a content-driven cultural renaissance - one that sees cuisine as a critical avenue for national storytelling in an international narrative. And yet, even Badr has to admit that Saudi's greatest asset to global gastronomy isn't their dishes - and no, it's not their dates either - it's people. 'You don't train Saudis to smile, to be hospitable. We take our kindness for granted, but it is rare.' In every project she undertakes, the focus remains clear: give back to the culture that shaped her. This pride shines through every initiative, and it's starting to catch on. Saudis at home and afar are beginning to rediscover their culinary heritage now that it has been articulated. The private sector is picking it up - now it's time perhaps for Mayada Badr to step back and admire the view. To Mayada Badr, however, that future looks like three words: "Innovation. Discovery. Sustainability." With a multi-hyphenated background which bridges disciplines, cultures, and borders, Mayada Badr embodies the versatility and passion needed to navigate uncharted territory. Under her leadership, Saudi cuisine is not just being preserved; it is being reimagined as a living, evolving force.
Arab News
25-03-2025
- Arab News
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Pareya' at Oia Beach Resort in Jeddah
If you are looking to break your fast by the sea, Pareya at Oia Beach Resort offers a relaxing experience. Inspired by a Greek-style setup, the restaurant is hosting its first Ramadan season with a selection of Arabic and Oriental dishes. The sunset backdrop adds to the atmosphere, making it a pleasant spot for iftar, which begins with cold mezze like fattoush, tabbouleh, hummus, and a unique beetroot and salad with tahini. Hot appetizers include crispy sambousa, falafel, and spring rolls. While the menu is somewhat limited, the main courses stand out. The biryani rice with tender lamb and fried onions is comforting, while the grilled chicken with lemon butter sauce is well-balanced. Koussa bel laban adds a creamy touch, and the hamour kofta with vegetables offers a mild seafood option. For dessert, Ramadan classics like katayef with cheese and walnuts, basbousa, and Um Ali provide a sweet finish. Despite being full, I found them hard to resist. Traditional drinks like tamarind juice, laban, and Arabic coffee complement the meal.
Jordan News
19-03-2025
- General
- Jordan News
Indulge in the best Ramadan delights & sufra essentials with Careem Food - Jordan News
Indulge in the best Ramadan delights & sufra essentials with Careem Food Ramadan is a time for reflection, togetherness, and of course, delicious food. After a long day of fasting, nothing is more satisfying than breaking your fast with a sweet treat that hits the spot. Whether you crave traditional desserts like qatayef and basbousa or want to try modern takes on classic favorites, Careem Food has got you covered! Plus, with Careem Plus, you can enjoy free delivery on many of your favorite Ramadan treats, making it easier than ever to indulge in the best flavors of the season. اضافة اعلان And it's not just about desserts! We'll also give you some ideas on Sufra Essentials to complete your iftar table, ensuring that you have everything you need for a perfect meal. Discover seven must-try dessert spots to order from in Amman that will add a delightful touch to your Ramadan evenings. 1. Al Nejmah Sweets Al Nejmah Sweets is known for its rich selection of Ramadan delights. Their menu features 21 specialty desserts made especially for Ramadan, including pistachio and mixed berry trifles, Um Ali, Asmaliya, qatayef, and mafrukah. Whether you prefer classic flavors or something new, Al Nejmah's creations are a must-try this season. 2. Habibah Sweets A household name in Amman, Habibah Sweets is the go-to spot for authentic Middle Eastern desserts. Their 17 Ramadan-exclusive items include Croissant Fukhara, Muhallabiyeh Fukhara, Baklava Cake, and their famous qatayef. Each bite is a taste of tradition with a modern twist! 3. Aghati Sweets Aghati Sweets brings a unique touch to Ramadan desserts with 9 mouthwatering options. Some of the highlights include Caramel Harisa, Basbousa, Namoura with cheese, and of course, their signature qatayef. Perfect for those who love indulgent flavors with a hint of nostalgia. 4. The Cake Baker For those who enjoy a fusion of Eastern and Western desserts, The Cake Baker is a must-try this Ramadan. With 16 exclusive treats, their menu includes Kunafa Cheesecake, Chocolate Cream Puffs, Date Tart, and Nutella Baklava. A sweet tooth's dream come true! 5. Yara's Corner Yara's Corner is known for its delicate and flavorful desserts, and this Ramadan, they've crafted 9 special items for the season. From saffron cake and pistachio Layali Lubnan to Aysh Al Saraya and pistachio mafruka, each dessert is a delightful experience in every bite. 6. Almond Coffee House A coffee house that takes dessert seriously, Almond Coffee House has 11 handcrafted Ramadan items on the menu. Try their basbousa pottery, kunafa croissant, Dubai chocolate trifle, and coffee tres leches for a unique, rich, and unforgettable post-iftar treat. 7. Abu Sair Sweets If you're a fan of traditional Ramadan desserts, Abu Sair Sweets should be on your list. Their 13 must-try sweets include Qatayef, Halawet Al Jibn, Kullaj, and Shami Harisa. These timeless classics have been perfected over generations, bringing authentic flavors straight to your home. In addition to desserts, Careem Food's Sufra Essentials section has everything you need to complete your iftar spread. Whether it's Jabri and 3azoometna's savory borek, Fruit Factory's refreshing juices, BLK's karkadeh, Hamada's hummus, or Foranji's freshly baked bread and qatayef, these essentials will make your Ramadan meals effortless and delicious. Order now on Careem Food and enjoy the sweetest Ramadan yet with Careem Plus for extra savings and free delivery!
What's On
19-03-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
9 fantastic things to do in Abu Dhabi this weekend: March 21 to 23
All the fun to be had in Abu Dhabi this Ramadan… We're well into Ramadan, with the end approaching soon, and what a month it has been, come with the promise of great fun and even greater choices in the capital. These are all the amazing things you can do in Abu Dhabi this weekend. Friday, March 21 Check out the brand new Leo & Loona Leo & Loona, the region's newest family entertainment destination, has officially opened at Yas Mall. This is a one-stop for your little ones, with immersive play and interactive attractions. The new space has 2,620 sqm of entertainment with over 30 attractions, even themed zones, including glow-in-the-dark slides, pedal go-karts, and creative workshops a Show & Toons area, featuring animated films, interactive performances, and fun contests and even a family-friendly restaurant. Leo & Loona, Yas Mall, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, daily, 10am to 1am, Tel: (0) 4 237 5454, @ At Nalu Restaurant & Lounge, guests will receive a warm, traditional welcome with dates, still water, and a special Ramadan cookie for tea or coffee. The meal begins with a Soup of the Day, followed by unlimited starters like quinoa tabbouleh, kofta with garlic yoghurt, and mezze with hummus and baba ghanoush. For mains, choose from dishes such as the braised lamb shank with hummus, pan-roasted seabream, or sous vide harissa chicken, before you conclude your meal with delightful desserts including Asseeda, Um Ali, or a refreshing seasonal fruit platter. Nalu, Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi, Dhs249, sunset to 9pm daily. Tel: (0)2 419 8509. @ Get stuck into an art exhibition For a dose of weekend art and culture, check out Beams of Light , a solo exhibition showcasing the works of esteemed Lebanese-Brazilian artist Habuba Farah. Running from April 10 to May 25, 2025, at Artbooth Gallery Abu Dhabi, this exhibition delves into the artist's profound exploration of colour, geometry, and movement, tracing her artistic evolution over more than seven decades. Artbooth Gallery, Abu Dhabi, Apr 10 to May 25, 7pm to 9pm, @artboothgallery Saturday, March 22 Celebrate Earth Hour with a Candlelight Concert On Saturday, March 22 at 8.30pm, guests and visitors are invited to witness the magic, where the Conrad Abu Dhabi's opulent lobby will be graced with the warm glow of candles creating a truly unforgettable ambiance. Celebrate Earth Hour as a symbolic act of unity in the fight against climate change with a special 15-minute performance. Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi, Mar 22, 8.30pm, @ Tuck into a family BBQ Every Saturday, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club hosts a Family BBQ Par-Tee, inviting all to enjoy a relaxed afternoon with great food and entertainment. Families can indulge in flame-grilled favorites fresh from the live BBQ on the lawn, enjoy entertainment, and keep the little ones engaged with kid-friendly fun, including a bouncy castle. Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Mar 22, 1pm to 5pm, starts at Dhs199, Tel: (0) 56 660 8780, Get moving Taking place every Saturday at 9am and Sunday at 5pm until March 23, Vogue Fitness will be hosting free functional fitness classes, improving stamina, technique and strength all through a fun and high-energy workout. Each weekend will bring exclusive offers and activations including the amazing Me & My Activewear and tasty treats from a range of partners such as Pink & Greens and FITT Meals in the complimentary goodie bag. Yas Marina, Sat, 9am, register at Sunday, March 23 Enjoy this weather while it lasts The stunning Jubail Mangrove Park in Abu Dhabi is an absolute must-visit for nature-seekers. A huge boardwalk will take visitors on a nature trail through the natural landscape of mangroves near Yas Island and, take it from us, it's amazing. As well as the stunning nature walk, there's loads of activities for the whole family to get involved in such as guided boardwalk tours, kayak trips, and e-canoe tours of the mangroves. Jubail Mangrove Park, Jubail Island, daily, 7am to 9pm, Tel: (0) 2 546 8341, @jubail_mangrove_park Revisit the Sheikh Zayed Mosque It's Ramadan, and the beloved Sheikh Zayed Mosque is the site of beautiful, spiritual action – this is the time to revisit it. Walk around, explore, and spend as long as you need to discover and admire the mosque. You can even join one of the free guided tours to understand the mosque's historical significance, facts, figures, and cultural relevance better. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Al Rawdah, Abu Dhabi, Sat to Thurs 9am to 10pm, Fri 9am to 12pm and 3pm to 10pm. Tel: (0)2 419 1919. Check out Ramadan Al Hosn The historic fort and Abu Dhabi's oldest stone building invites visitors to step back in time with storytelling sessions, cultural performances, and heritage experiences that bring Emirati traditions to life during Ramadan. Open majlis sessions, poetry nights, and live oud performances add to the festive ambience. Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi, until Mar 21, @qasralhosn Images: Socials/Supplied/Getty
Web Release
28-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Web Release
Immerse Yourself in the Spirit of Ramadan at Address Beach Resort
The auspicious season of Ramadan is approaching, and Address Beach Resort is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the spirit of the holy month with a range of thoughtfully curated experiences. Guests can expect to delight in daily Iftar buffets at The Restaurant, offering a contemporary twist on traditional Arabic and international favourites, or savour an unforgettable evening at Li'Brasil with its exquisite Iftar buffer and Suhoor set menu, featuring a rich array of dishes in a stunning setting. For larger gatherings, the resort presents bespoke Corporate Iftar packages on The Lawn, providing an elegant venue for groups to come together and celebrate this sacred time. The resort is also the ideal destination to enjoy an unforgettable Ramadan Escape, ensuring every moment of Ramadan is marked by warmth, flavour, and togetherness. Iftar at The Restaurant and Li'Brasil Celebrate Ramadan with an extraordinary Iftar experience available at both The Restaurant and Li'Brasil. At The Restaurant, guests can immerse themselves in a lavish buffet featuring an array of Arabic and international delights, including cold and hot mezzeh, shawarma, lamb Ouzi, a seafood counter, traditional soups, a live BBQ station, and a decadent dessert spread of kunafa, Um Ali, and Arabic sweets. Boasting serene settings enhanced by soft music, lanterns, and hanging lights, both venues provide a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for family gatherings and moments of reflection. Each Iftar buffet is priced at AED 248 per person, including water and Ramadan juices, while group rates and U By Emaar discounts are also available. This holy month, embrace the essence of Ramadan with culinary excellence and cultural fusion at Address Beach Resort. Iftar at The Restaurant and Li'Brasil When: Daily throughout Ramadan from 6.00 pm to 9.00 pm Offer: Buffet style iftar feast including water and Ramadan juices Price: AED 248 per adult; Group rates available of AED 190 per person for 30 people or more *Children aged between 0 and 6 dine complimentary *Children aged between 6 and 12 dine at 50% off *U by Emaar discount applicable For more information and bookings, please contact 04 879 8866 or email [email protected] . Suhoor at Li'Brasil Enjoy a delightful Suhoor experience at Li'Brasil, where exceptional flavors await. Featuring a curated set menu that blends Lebanese and Brazilian flavours, the talented chefs have created a truly unique culinary journey this Ramadan. Complementing the delightful dishes, guests can enjoy a selection of hubbly bubbly, adding an extra layer of relaxation and indulgence to their evening. With its vibrant indoor ambience, charming outdoor terrace and unparalleled views, Li'Brasil provides the perfect setting to unwind and embrace the spirit of this auspicious time from 10.00 pm to 2.00 am daily. When: Daily throughout Ramadan from 10.00 pm to 2.00 am Offer: Suhoor set menu including water Price: AED 150 per person, with shisha prices starting from AED 170 For more information and bookings, please contact 04 879 8866 or email [email protected] . Corporate Iftar on The Lawn Elevate your Ramadan celebrations with bespoke Corporate Iftar packages at The Lawn, an idyllic outdoor venue framed by flourishing greenery overlooking the iconic Ain Dubai and bursting with picturesque foliage. Complete with breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf and the glittering Dubai skyline, The Lawn provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable gathering of up to 130 guests. This picturesque setting presents a bespoke Iftar buffet, perfect for an evening of exquisite cuisine, warmth, and tradition. When: Available throughout Ramadan Offer: Corporate Iftar buffet for up to 130 people Price: Minimum spend of AED 20,000 For more information and bookings, please contact 04 879 8866 or email [email protected] . Ramadan Escape Discover the perfect Ramadan retreat with the Ramadan Escape at Address Beach Resort, where luxury meets tranquillity. The Forbes-awarded resort boasts the world's highest outdoor infinity pool on the 77 th floor, offers comfortable rooms with premium amenities ensuring you have all you need for a luxurious stay, and is situated just a stone's throw from an array of unrivalled dining and entertainment spots in the famed JBR. Guests can further indulge in breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai's iconic skyline while enjoying either a delectable Iftar or Suhoor feast and the Best Available Room Rates. With its unparalleled setting and exceptional hospitality, Address Beach Resort offers an idyllic haven to relax, reflect, and celebrate the spirit of Ramadan. When: Available throughout Ramadan Offer: Best available rates on stays, including complimentary Iftar or Suhoor For more details or bookings, call +971 (0)4 879 8899 or email [email protected]
