Embark on a Red Sea Foodie Quest and uncover the vibrant tapestry of Egyptian Red Sea culinary traditions and Saudi Arabian cuisine along one of the world’s most storied coastlines. Whether you’re diving into Egyptian seafood specialties in Hurghada or savoring Saudi classics in Jeddah, the region promises a feast for the senses. This guide brings you 15 iconic dishes and exactly where to find them, helping you savor the true flavors of the Red Sea on your next adventure.
The Red Sea’s unique geography connects the Middle East and North Africa, resulting in a diverse culinary landscape. Egyptian Red Sea culinary heritage is shaped by ancient trade routes, abundant seafood, and centuries of cross-cultural exchange. Saudi Arabian cuisine, on the opposite shore, blends Bedouin traditions with vibrant coastal influences. The result: a food scene brimming with fresh seafood, fragrant spices, and local specialties that reflect the spirit of the region. Whether you’re planning a snorkeling trip or a week-long sailing cruise, the culinary journey is just as memorable as the marine adventures.
A staple along the Egyptian coast, Sayadeya features spiced rice baked with firm white fish, caramelized onions, and tomato. Sample authentic Sayadeya in Hurghada’s harbor-side restaurants or during a scuba diving tour with a local seafood lunch.
Charcoal-grilled fish, often marinated with garlic, cumin, and lemon, is a Red Sea classic. Many beachside grills in Sharm El Sheikh serve fresh catches straight from the sea. Don’t miss this dish after a day exploring Ras Mohammed National Park.
This celebratory Egyptian seafood dish layers crispy bread, rice, and tomato sauce, topped with fried fish or shrimp. It’s best enjoyed at family-run eateries in El Gouna or Marsa Alam.
Gambari Mashwi highlights the freshness of Red Sea prawns, simply grilled and often accompanied by tahini sauce. Look for it in seafood markets along the Dahab promenade.
Tender squid stuffed with herbed rice, tomato, and spices—this specialty is widely served in both Egyptian and Saudi Red Sea towns, especially in local fish restaurants in Safaga.
Molokhia, a leafy green stew, is elevated with succulent Red Sea shrimp in coastal Egyptian homes. Try this hearty dish after a day of wildlife watching near Marsa Alam’s mangroves.
This traditional cured mullet fish is a springtime delicacy across Egypt, best sampled under local guidance in Hurghada’s fish markets.
Originating from the Egyptian Red Sea coast, Bisarh combines white fish, tomatoes, and fiery spices in a warming soup—perfect after diving excursions.
The Saudi version of Sayadeya, popular in Jeddah and Yanbu, features fragrant rice, caramelized onions, and spiced fried fish. Sample it in traditional eateries along the Saudi Red Sea corniche.
A Saudi Arabian specialty, Madfoon Samak is fish marinated in local spices, wrapped in palm leaves, and slow-cooked in a sand oven—a must-try for culinary adventurers.
This aromatic Saudi rice dish is often made with shrimp, crab, or lobster in Red Sea cities. Enjoy Kabsa with Seafood at bustling souks or seaside restaurants in Jazan.
Hearty and comforting, Harees blends wheat with tender pieces of fish or shellfish. It’s especially popular during Ramadan in Saudi Arabian Red Sea towns.
Flaky pastries filled with spiced shrimp or fish, Sambousak bridges the Egyptian and Saudi culinary traditions. Find them at local bakeries and street vendors from Suez to Jeddah.
This robust stew features okra simmered with white fish and tomatoes, a common home-cooked meal in both Egypt and Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea regions. Look for it in family-run seaside restaurants.
A modern twist on a beloved dessert, Kunafa is sometimes stuffed with creamy seafood mousse along the Egyptian coast. Seek out this inventive dish in upscale Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh restaurants.
The best way to encounter the authentic flavors of the Red Sea is to dine where locals gather. In Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada, bustling seafood markets and waterfront grills offer fresh catches cooked to order. For adventurous palates, local food tours and hands-on cooking classes illuminate the diverse Egyptian Red Sea culinary landscape. On the Saudi Arabian side, coastal cities like Jeddah and Yanbu are renowned for their traditional fish markets and family-run restaurants.
A true Red Sea Foodie Quest goes beyond the plate. Many snorkeling and diving tours include stops at local eateries or fishing villages, giving travelers a taste of daily life and fresh regional specialties. Consider combining a culinary itinerary with wildlife watching excursions or visits to natural attractions like the Giftun Islands.
Whether you’re a gourmet enthusiast or a curious traveler, the Red Sea region’s food scene is as rich and diverse as its marine life. From time-honored Egyptian seafood recipes to inventive Saudi Arabian cuisine, every meal tells a story. Ready to explore further? Browse our latest blog posts for more travel inspiration, or check out our guided tours that blend food, culture, and adventure along the Red Sea coast. For questions about food-friendly itineraries or dietary needs, visit our FAQ or contact us directly.
Travel enthusiast and content creator passionate about exploring the Red Sea.
