The Hospitality Industry in Riyadh
I have been living and working in Riyadh since 2025. Here's my take on the hospitality industry in Riyadh.
4/5/20263 min read
Welcome to Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia (aka KSA) where the hospitality industry is thriving against the backdrop of a rich cultural heritage.
Despite the scorching desert heat, Riyadh is the perfect balance of contemporary life and tradition. making it a captivating destination for both locals and tourists. In this article, we will explore the hospitality industry in Riyadh.
Coffee Culture
Riyadh may be located in an arid atmosphere but that doesn't deter the locals from embracing the love for coffee. In fact, coffee holds a special place in Saudi culture symbolizing hospitality and friendship.
Traditional Arab coffee known as ''Gahwa'' is often served during social gathering and it's preparation is as much of an art as it is tradition.
Locals gather in cozy coffee shops with beautiful interior which are plentiful throughout the city to enjoy their favorite coffee. Whether, it's a shot of espresso or Gahwa spiced with cardamon, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air.
Whether you are a college student studying, having a business meeting or just on a family outfit, a coffee shop is an essential social hub for you.
Here's a summary of based on my insights on coffee.
Saudis love Ethiopian coffee.
Coffee shops are a booming business in Riyadh.
Saudis are very respectful and organized, they queue at the cashier while waiting to be served.
There are three dominant types of coffee which locals prefer. These are Ethiopian coffee, Colombia and Yemeni coffee.
Saudis drink more than 36 million cups of coffee every day.
My favorite coffee is Spanish Latte. My colleague makes it for me at work. One of the perks of working at a cafe.
Nightlife & Culinary Trends
As the sun sets over the Riyadh skyline,the city transforms into a hub of activity. The scorching daytime heat gives way to cooler evenings making it the perfect time for dinner date and social gatherings. Local restaurants and cafes come alive with patrons enjoying everything from traditional dishes to international cuisines.
The culinary expansion is not merely about food, it involves the cultural dynamics of Riyadh. Areas such as Al-Malaz & Al-Olaya have become hubs where family and friends gather. Recent trends have also seen a rise in desserts that are capturing the tastebuds of many consumers.
Desserts like Caramel Tiramisu, Pecan Tiramisu and Um Ali currently stand out as favorites. These desserts represents a blend of luxurious ingredients and artistry that speaks to the customers.
Gastronomy has a tremendous cultural impact. Dining out has been the norm, strengthening community bonds and encouraging cultural interaction.
Food and beverage commodities are experience products meaning that in order for consumers to draw conclusions, they must interact with the products. Taste, texture, and sensory experience are becoming more important to consumers.
KEETA
Keeta is an online food delivery app. The rapid growth of technology has influence KSA hospitality, notably with the emergence of apps such as Keeta.
This fast and efficient food delivery enhances the food experience by allowing users to order on the go and enjoy their favorite desserts and drinks at the comfort of their homes.
Keeta's popularity reflects a growing trend of convenience in the food and beverage industry, where consumers look for quick access to quality products without compromising on experience.
What I like about Keeta is that it is local and fast because there are several riders on standby, ensuring that your food arrives hot. The user interface is simple and easy to use. It is more popular among locals In simple terms, Keeta is the Uber Eats of KSA.
The industry in Riyadh is growing as seen above. I have tried to give you a summary of what to expect when you visit the city. Be sure to try Caramel Tiramisu and tell me what you think about Spanish Latte.
