Jeddah: The food and dining industry in Saudi Arabia witnessed a leap of prosperity as the market now is valued at billions of Saudi Riyals and exhibit a healthy rapid growth. Such factors are indicators for the firm and stable Saudi economy, which in their turn motivated many investors and companies to invest in this prosper sector. Despite the diversity and abundance of the sector, especially the fast food industry, there is still a demand and an attraction factor for restaurants that serves traditional and local dishes.

Recently, Al Thamarat restaurant in Jeddah has opened. It was inaugurated by the General Manager of the Ministry of Foreign affairs branch in Makkah region, the ambassador Mr. Mohammad bin Ahmad Tayyeb, Dr. Imad Suleiman Sha’ath the General Consul of the State of Palestine in Jeddah, the General Consul of Italy Mrs. Elizabetta Martini and many other consuls of Arab and Muslim countries.

Engineer Sameer bin Abdulqader Naseer, the General Manager of Naseer Group, commenced his welcoming speech with an Hijazi saying formed with the ancient accent of the people in Makkah welcoming the guests of honor “Anastona wa Sharraftona, wa Ala baitna Noor”. A closely translation would be: “You have brought joy and honor to our place, our home has lightened with your presence”.

Engineer Naseer commented on the successful opening of Al Thamarat: “Al Thamarat restaurant represents the Hijazi culture that encompasses many cultures and customs from around the world. Such diversity in Hijaz is by the blessings of the two holy mosques. Pilgrims from around the world go to Hijaz to perform the Hajj and Umrah which formed the unique and rich culture of hijaz”. He added: “With our experience, we realized the absence of a restaurant that celebrates the Hijazi culture and its cuisine. This was our jumpstart for a true Hijazi cuisine and culture experience in Al Thamarat restaurant”

Engineer Naseer added: “We aim to revive the Hijazi heritage as we brought back the efforts of our fathers and ancestors, men and women, through a practical vision. We brought in the pottery and music enjoyed and used by Hijazi for years.

Engineer Naseer also added: “Al Thamarat restaurant went through an experience survey and tasting trials to decide on the best recipes for the Hijazi dishes and the portion should be served. This experiment involved 1200 experienced taster from both, young and old people throughout 6 months period. By Allah’s blessings, we reached  a better vision that suits everybody. For the location and décor, we aimed at manifesting all the regions icons and architectural designs, indoor and outdoor. We also took in account the diversity in spoken accents as the regions visitors have affected the Hijazi people’s accent throughout the years. Visitors can enjoy the Hijazi proverbs, poetry and cultural says seen in the paintings and drawings in all the corners of the restaurant, as well as the Hijazi fashion demonstrated with the staff uniforms and the exhibited outfits.