Saudi Arabia Celebrates International Coffee Day, Showcasing Rich Coffee Traditions
Riyadh, October 1, 2024 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – As one of the world’s top coffee-consuming nations, Saudi Arabia is proudly celebrating International Coffee Day today, highlighting its deep-rooted coffee culture. The annual observance, held every October 1, features a range of events and activities that reflect the Kingdom’s love for coffee, a beverage that holds cultural significance in Saudi society.
Saudi coffee, or "Gahwa," is a symbol of hospitality and warmth, embodying the cherished values of the Saudi people. Each region of the Kingdom has its own unique coffee-making traditions, enhancing the cultural diversity surrounding the drink. In Najd, the central region, coffee is often prepared with cardamom and saffron, while the southern region adds cloves, ginger, and cinnamon to the mix. In Hail, the beverage is infused with cardamom, saffron, and cloves, whereas in the western region, cardamom is the sole addition to the brew.
Serving coffee is an equally important tradition, with a ritualized method of pouring and presenting it to guests. The coffee pot, known as the "dallah," is held in the left hand, while the cup is presented with the right hand—a gesture reflecting the Saudi commitment to hospitality.
In line with the country’s Vision 2030 objectives, the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture has intensified efforts to expand coffee cultivation in the Kingdom, with the goal of achieving self-sufficiency. This initiative not only preserves Saudi Arabia’s coffee heritage but also seeks to boost economic returns and support the growth of the non-oil sector’s contribution to the national GDP.
The celebration of International Coffee Day in Saudi Arabia reflects the Kingdom’s pride in its coffee traditions and underscores its ongoing efforts to strengthen its cultural and economic ties to this beloved beverage.
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