ZADK culinary institute is a transforming initiative that on the one hand aims to train young Saudis on culinary art to become reputed chefs and develop a Saudi cuisine, and on the other hand promotes initiatives like zero waste cooking, healthy nutrition and locally produced food.

We received the visit of Mrs. Moualla at Basque Culinary Center some months ago, we are very happy to see how the project of the new school, ZADK, is already a reality. Congratulation

There is no doubt that gastronomy is a universal language which reflects who we are, where we come from, and what we and our culture and society are like. 

Gastronomy is also a tool which we have traditionally used with the aim of making people happy through food. 

In recent years, society has given us, chefs, an extraordinary power and media presence. I firmly believe that we should use our knowledge not only to make dishes of beautiful food, but also for the benefit of society. This way, we hope to give back to society the impact and importance it has conferred upon our sector. I believe that we should reconceive our stance and start to think about what we should be cooking on two fronts, from two different kitchens.   

Shared during ZADK’s International Advisory Board Annual Meeting — “Local Roots, Global Vision”

“Meaningful transformation begins with people and ideas on the ground. When grassroots initiatives receive institutional and corporate support, it demonstrates how community-driven solutions can contribute to the broader ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030. By connecting local initiatives with wider national goals, we can accelerate social, cultural, and economic change that is both meaningful and sustainable.”

Shared during ZADK’s International Advisory Board Annual Meeting — “Local Roots, Global Vision”

“Food is one of the most powerful expressions of cultural heritage. For generations, traditional food cultures were inherently sustainable—ingredients were seasonal, resources were valued, and very little was wasted.

This philosophy is deeply rooted in Saudi culinary heritage. Preserving and sharing that knowledge creates an opportunity to offer something truly unique to the world. When visitors come to Saudi Arabia, they should be able to experience its history, culture, and identity through its cuisine—to truly ‘taste history on a plate.’”

Shared during ZADK’s International Advisory Board Annual Meeting — “Local Roots, Global Vision”

“The partnership between César Ritz and ZADK is a natural one because both institutions share a student-centric philosophy. We are focused on what students need for their future: meaningful learning experiences, quality education, and educators who support their professional and personal growth.

Whether in Saudi Arabia or Switzerland, that commitment remains the same. This shared vision provides a strong foundation for our partnership and for working together to help students build successful careers and a better future.”

Shared during ZADK’s International Advisory Board Annual Meeting — “Local Roots, Global Vision”

“A better society is built through science and technology, culture, and social empathy. Food and culinary traditions are an essential part of that cultural foundation.

ZADK is contributing to real social transformation by preserving culinary heritage, bringing different segments of society together, strengthening cultural identity through food, and helping project the Kingdom’s culinary identity internationally. This is an important contribution to Saudi Arabia’s evolving cultural landscape.”

Shared during ZADK’s International Advisory Board Annual Meeting — “Local Roots, Global Vision”

“What distinguishes ZADK is its genuine focus on the student. Students are placed at the center of the learning journey, developing practical knowledge and skills that extend beyond the classroom and into their professional lives.

ZADK transforms hands-on learning into transferable skills for life. This approach prepares students not only for employment, but also for long-term personal and professional growth.”

Shared during ZADK’s International Advisory Board Annual Meeting — “Local Roots, Global Vision”

“ZADK is doing pioneering work at the intersection of culinary education, science, and technology. By exposing students to emerging fields such as artificial intelligence in gastronomy and gastrophysics, the Academy is preparing them to understand—and help shape—the future of food.

Innovation can play a defining role in creating the Saudi culinary traditions of tomorrow while building on the heritage of today. ZADK’s students are an extraordinary source of talent and passion, and the projects they are developing have the potential to influence Saudi culinary culture for generations to come.”