Saudi Arabia has launched a Le Cordon Bleu campus in Riyadh, marking the first such school in the Gulf to develop local culinary talent and blend Saudi flavors with classical French training.

The $30 million toe in the water

The campus, spanning 2,000 square meters, marks Le Cordon Bleu's first presence in the Arabian Peninsula and the Gulf region, with a $30 million investment from the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission.

CEO Mayada Badr, a celebrated patisserie owner and cultural ambassador, is leading a transformative moment for Saudi culinary arts as CEO of the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission.

Mayada's personal journey: from Paris to Riyadh

Mayada's personal journey-from childhood dreams in Saudi Arabia to training at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris and working at prestigious establishments like Ladurée and a two-Michelin-star restaurant-makes her an inspiring figure for aspiring chefs.

Her Pink Camel patisserie, dubbed the Queen of Macaroons, showcases Saudi creativity with sweets.

Blending tradition with modernity

The new school will blend classical French techniques with local flavors, empowering a generation to innovate .

Mayada draws parallels to Marthe Distel, who founded Le Cordon Bleu in 1895, and believes the institution will help Saudi chefs earn Michelin stars.

Food as a cultural anchor

Food is deeply rooted in Saudi culture, and with formal training,local chefs can achieve global excellence.

The partnership was formalized in 2023 with Le Cordon Bleu's leadership and Misk City officials.

Regional hub for gastronomy and education

Riyadh positions itself as a regional hub for gastronomy, education, and cultural exchange.

Mayada's leadership exemplifies how personal passion can fuel national transformation, turning a childhood fascination with food into a strategic asset for the Kingdom's future.

What auditors flagged in the May filing

The partnership has already sparked excitement among food enthusiasts and industry watchers, anticipating a new wave of Saudi culinary talent on the world stage.

With this collaboration, Riyadh becomes a hub for culinary innovation, blending tradition with modernity .

Mayada emphasizes that the school will help Saudi chefs achieve global excellence,with formal training and the support of international expertise.