Klija Takes Center Stage as Buraidah Hosts 17th Festival Edition

Buraidah: The 17th edition of the Klija Festival in Buraidah will launch on Thursday, featuring a wide range of activities, programs, and events celebrating the region's rich culinary heritage. According to Saudi Press Agency, the festival's general supervisor Mohammed Al-Hanaya stated that the Culinary Arts Commission's recognition of Klija as a key traditional dish of the Qassim Region, and as a locally baked specialty of Buraidah, along with UNESCO's inclusion of Buraidah in the Creative Cities Network for Gastronomy, has placed greater responsibility on organizers. This responsibility includes enhancing organization and development efforts, as well as creating broader marketing and distribution opportunities for the product. Al-Hanaya also noted the Qassim Chamber of Commerce has played a significant role in organizing the festival by supporting business owners, small enterprises, artisans, and families working in the cottage industry. The chamber has launched employment and training programs for these groups, helping them establish a strong presence in the market and participate in promotional events. He added that the festival's registration platform includes more than 750 families, around 230 artisans, over 370 food trucks, and approximately 200 companies and institutions.