JEDDAH – A two-day Pakistan-Saudi Food, Art, and Culture Festival was held in Jeddah, drawing large numbers of Pakistani and Saudi families, including men, women, and children. The event aimed to promote the shared cultural heritage, traditional cuisines, fine arts, and family-friendly entertainment of both nations.
Organized by Saudi media personality and businesswoman Dr. Sameera Aziz in collaboration with Summer Fun, the festival featured a vibrant array of shopping stalls, cafés, food outlets, and competitive cooking events showcasing homemade Pakistani dishes. Visitors also enjoyed painting exhibitions, arts and crafts displays, and dedicated children’s shows, games, and recreational activities.
Dr. Sameera Aziz highlighted that the festival served as a common platform to celebrate the culinary and artistic traditions of the two brotherly countries. “Such events not only strengthen cultural ties between Pakistani and Saudi communities but also provide wholesome, positive entertainment for families,” she said.
Renowned chef Afshan Mansour guided home cooks during the cooking competitions, while Dr. Rakhshanda Puri managed stalls featuring handcrafted items. Pakistani artist Arm Roman presented a variety of arts and crafts pieces. The children’s show was hosted by popular actor Sultan Abdulrahman Rand.
International chefs Thomas A. Gugler and Yasser Jad participated as guest judges. Summer Fun’s Hamed Al-Jahni, the chief guest, distributed prizes and shields to outstanding participants across various categories.
In the cooking contest, Sobia Abid secured first place, Ayesha Sattar came second, and Noreen Khurram took third.
Organizers noted that the festival was an effort to offer a shared cultural space for the people of both countries, blending traditional flavors, arts, and customs with healthy, enjoyable activities for families.
