Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara is set to host the fourth edition of its annual Al Baleed Culinary Festival, running throughout November 2025. Supported by Experience Oman, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, Dhofar Municipality, and Amouage, the month-long event will highlight Oman’s authentic flavours alongside international culinary talent.
This year’s festival introduces a new format that blends local traditions with global expertise. Among its key highlights is the Frankincense Experience, which includes a guided farm tour, a frankincense-inspired spa ritual, and a two-course harvest lunch. The experience reflects the resort’s focus on sustainability, wellness, and Salalah’s cultural heritage.
Two renowned Michelin-starred chefs will headline exclusive dinners at Mekong: Chef Jacob Jan Boerma from the Netherlands will present Symphony of Taste on 12 November, while Chef Christian Jürgens from Germany will host Pursuit of Excellence on 15 November. Each evening will feature a four-course menu showcasing a creative balance of international culinary techniques and Omani ingredients.
Local talent will also be at the forefront of the festival. Chef Raveevan Kahawan will present Taste of Mekong set menus and Far East Night buffets, while Chef Sufian Akhtar curates Flavours of the Spice Route at Sakalan. Chef Andrea Carrone brings Taste of the Arabian Ocean at Al Mina, and Chefs Ammar Al Harthi and Khalood Abdullah Jamaan Khazana will lead Omani Nights, featuring traditional cuisine and live music.
Adding to the line-up, Executive Chef Marco Van Rutten from Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Amsterdam joins the event, alongside Head Pastry Chef Khin Hnin Aung, who will present dessert creations throughout the month.
The festival will conclude with The Al Baleed Kitchen Party on 14 November at Al Mina. The collaborative evening will bring together all participating chefs for an interactive dining experience featuring live cooking stations and entertainment.
