RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has its own unique food heritage and there is no necessity to copy from other regions, according to Mayada Badr, CEO of the Culinary Arts Commission. “We want to do a lot more in Saudi cuisine. We have our own heritage and we don’t want to copy it. We are using what we have,” she said. While speaking at the Future Hospitality Summit in Riyadh on May 24, Badr revealed that several young Saudi nationals are entering the culinary art sector. According to Badr, international brands have made their presence felt in the Saudi market along with local brands, which is ultimately resulting in healthy competition in the food and beverage industry. Talking about the impact of Vision 2030 on the F&B sector, she added, “With Vision 2030, we Saudis decided to share more than ever. You go to those tiny towns and you feel welcomed. They share food and you get exposed to all sorts of traditional food.”