IN Saudi Arabia, hospitality is not just etiquette, but part of our DNA and ingrained cultural pride. Known as a term that reflects warmth, this tradition flows naturally into the rhythm of everyday life, starting from the family environment to conversations that take place warmly without feeling rushed.
“Saudi Arabian hospitality is the art of serving from the heart,” said Marc Makhoul, General Manager of the MICHELIN selected Taleed by Michael Mina Restaurant.
Bukhoor and the Ceremony Room: Profound First Impressions
When stepping into a Saudi home, the first greeting is not words, but the soft and warm aroma of bukhoor (fragrant incense). Guests will then be directed to the majlis, a special sitting room that is the center of social interaction.
In both modern homes and traditional tents in the desert, majlis are designed with thoughtfulness, soft lighting, plush pillows and beautiful carpets. “For us as Saudis, we put the most important people in the majlis,” explains chef Hind Y. Albahkali of Samia’s Dish restaurant. This concept is now being adapted by many restaurants in Saudi to provide privacy and comfort like at home.
Ritual Kohwa Guel
The most important element in welcoming guests is the serving of Gahwa or Saudi coffee. This drink is usually prepared with the aroma of cardamom, saffron or cloves, depending on the region.
“The first thing we serve guests is Saudi coffee. It symbolizes who we are; no home welcomes guests without it,” says Albahkali.
There are unique etiquette in this ritual. The host will pour hot coffee into a small cup (finjal) without filling it to the brim as a sign of hospitality. When guests have had enough, they will shake the cup slightly, a universal sign language that every Saudi citizen understands. Fahad Mohammed Abdullah Mosharf from Najd Village added, “Serving coffee is our way of celebrating and honoring our guests. It is an important part of our heritage.”
Unlimited Banquet
The tradition of welcoming guests often culminates in a large banquet. In Saudi Arabia, guests are always given priority to eat first. Even in some villages, the host will only eat after the guests have completely finished.
The menu served can include kabsa (meat rice) or jareesh (mashed wheat with meat). “You don’t just welcome guests and serve coffee. You will offer them a meal as a thank you for coming to your house,” said Makhoul.
In closing, guests usually don’t go home empty-handed. It is common for Saudis to give gifts of oud incense, perfume, coffee, or dates as a memento of the visit. (MICHELIN Guide/Z-2)
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