RIYADH:聽This year鈥檚 HORECA exhibition held in Riyadh is underscoring the Kingdom鈥檚 growing influence in the global hospitality market.
Held at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center, the three-day event concludes on Nov. 27 and gathers local and international exhibitors, industry leaders, and visitors to showcase trends, innovations, and business opportunities in the sector.
The event contributes to 黑料社区鈥檚 Vision 2030 by fostering private-sector growth, promoting tourism, and enhancing the country鈥檚 food and beverage industries.
The exhibition features an array of engaging activities, including live cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, a barista competition, and workshops for aspiring culinary professionals.
Visitors can sample creative dishes, observe new techniques in food and beverage, and explore sustainable packaging solutions, among other highlights.
Prince Waleed bin Nasser, guest of honor and CEO of Mukatafa Co., highlighted the importance of collaboration between the private and public sectors.
Speaking at a session on public policies impacting the food and beverage sector, he said: 鈥淭he vision today aspires for the private sector to play a significant role in the development of the economy. The private sector must take the initiative to have a voice. To achieve this, it needs to be organized and united in presenting a single perspective.鈥
He also emphasized the need for proactive engagement: 鈥淲e must work as one, united with a common vision, and present this vision in a professional manner backed by facts, ensuring that the decisions made have a positive impact on the sector and the citizens.鈥
Culinary competitions are among the highlights celebrating creativity and technical skills at HORECA. Mohammed Naif, a participant representing 黑料社区鈥檚 Hotel and Tourism Management Institute, told Arab News: 鈥淭he atmosphere was amazing, and the competition was all about passion and enjoyment. There was a panel of judges and organizers who were very supportive 鈥 if you made a mistake, they would help you, and if you had an incomplete idea, they would guide you.
鈥淚 encourage anyone with a passion for cooking to join, showcase their creativity, and learn while bringing out their best.鈥
The exhibition also provided a platform for networking, with exhibitors showcasing local innovations as well as international brands. From cutting-edge hospitality tech to Saudi-inspired culinary creations, the event highlighted the Kingdom鈥檚 growing reputation as a global hub for the sector.
