Alula by Ducasse in Eventsfaqs media
AlUla collaborates with world-renowned chef Alain Ducasse on a distinctive pop-up gastronomic venture
AlUla, the ancient oasis city in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, is delighted to announce Ducasse in AlUla, an exciting collaboration with world-renowned, multi-Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse.
This partnership marks the highly anticipated launch of the pop-up culinary experience, opened on 20 January for a limited period, located next to the ancient heritage site of Jabal Ikmah. The new venture seamlessly combines sustainability with the flavours of Saudi Arabia, France and the wider Middle East region for a unique and memorable experience. Nestled in the picturesque setting of AlUla’s iconic oasis palm groves, the upcoming restaurant will offer a combination of local ingredients sourced from nearby farms and traditional flavours, with an exquisite French touch, redefining the city’s luxury gastronomic landscape. Phillip Jones, Chief Tourism Officer of the Royal Commission for AlUla, said: “Representing a significant step forward in AlUla’s evolution as a leading culinary destination, Ducasse in AlUla is meticulously designed to captivate both residents and visitors. We have conceived the restaurant not only to introduce an unprecedented fine dining experience to the city, but also to honour and incorporate AlUla’s precious natural resources, which have long nourished ancient civilisations and modern residents.
Ducasse in AlUla, a dialogue between nature and gastronomy
Between oasis and desert, the French chef elevates local produce in a place designed by Aliénor Bechu and Donald Bovy, conceived in perfect harmony with the Saudi landscape.
Chef Alain Ducasse said: “When I visited AlUla with my chef Afonso, we were curious to discover and impressed to taste the products from the local farms. We found these natural oases that grow everything from the dates and citrus fruits for which the region is renowned to all kinds of leafy vegetables." The region is in the midst of an ambitious project to diversify the economy and create opportunities for the local community. The agricultural training programme offers support to local farmers so that they can provide the quality and scale of ingredients required for the growing hospitality offer. In line with AlUla’s commitment to sustainable development and the preservation of its natural beauty, Ducasse in AlUla has been carefully designed by French designer Aliénor Bechu and Donald Bovy of Volume ABC to blend seamlessly with the environment. The architectural integration of the restaurant with the natural landscape reflects a profound respect for the natural charm and heritage of the region, offering diners an unparalleled culinary experience that connects history and innovation.
