Aseer World Region of Gastronomy 2024

Celebrating Heritage and Innovation

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Title

Aseer 2024 is the first World Region of Gastronomy Outside Europe

In September 2022, Aseer was announced as the winner of the title "World Region of Gastronomy 2024" making it the first region outside Europe to win this title. The title is awarded by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts, and Tourism (IGCAT) to regions that meet the standards developed by the institute. These standards include working across economic, cultural, social, and environmental sectors through culinary arts to support sustainable regional development.

Under the supervision of the Culinary Arts Commission

Aseer: world region of gastronomy 2024

The title "Region of Gastronomy Award" is awarded by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts, and Tourism (IGCAT) to recognize regions that commit to preserving cultural heritage and developing tourism. This award is granted to regions that work on enhancing cultural and environmental diversity, supporting local communities, and empowering new generations through culinary innovation and the development of integrated tourism services.

Global Gathering

Key Events

The Aseer region hosted the 27th meeting of the World Regions of Gastronomy Platform, where 20 international experts from 11 award-winning regions gathered to exchange best practices and explore local culture. This unique event, held for the first time outside Europe, featured discussions and workshops on the role of culinary arts in local development and sustainability promotion.

22 April

23 April

24 April

25 April

3 July

The Tenth Experts Meeting in Aseer

Bee Research Center - King Khalid University

Blessing Preservation Association

Al-Janoub Women's Association

Street Food

Grapevine Farm

Honey Cottage

The Village of Rijal Almaa

Food Gift Challenge

Workshop at the Aseer Development Authority

The Closing Ceremony

Workshop to Activate the Role of Stakeholders

Education and international cooperation are the key to empowering communities and ensuring the sustainability of cultural heritage in culinary arts.

Global Food Gifts Challenge 2023 - 2024

Winners of the Global Food Gifts Challenge 2023 - 2024

2024

Zainab Al-Khalib - Saudi Coffee Bean Bag

A handcrafted bag containing ingredients for Saudi coffee, reflecting the region's heritage.

2024

Marouj Al-Shatari - Luxury Wooden Box

An elegant wooden box for coffee tools, inspired by coffee beans.

2024

Hanan Al-Qahhtani - Souika Basket

A basket containing the ingredients for a traditional Aseeri dish, representing the region's heritage.

2024

Abdulrahman Al-Aboudi - Contemporary Date Bowl

A wooden bowl for dates with a contemporary design and traditional carvings.

2023

Abdullah Al-Jarashi (Tahallal) - "Taste of Aseer" Honey

A gift blending handcrafted art with authentic Aseer honey.

Competitions

Food Film Menu Competition

The competition is held annually to showcase videos promoting cultural and natural landmarks around the world. Aseer won the award twice in 2022 and 2024, with videos highlighting the beauty of the region, its hospitality, and traditional dishes.