SAUDI DATES: A PORTRAIT OF THE SACRED FRUIT
By Mohammed Bin Ismail Al-Ismail
"When we led a Bedouin way of life, dates meant survival." —Nasr Khadaish
Date palms emerge across the landscapes of Saudi Arabia, sprouting sacred fruit, creating the ideal oasis. The palm offers shelter and sustenance and is held in high esteem in the region. Dates are referenced throughout the Qur’an and some consider the palm as the tree of life and power. Harvesters in Saudi Arabia have honed their skills over the centuries ensuring the best product. Saudi Arabia is home to the world’s largest date palm oasis which is also a UNESCO’s Heritage site. A great pride of the country, dates are also the perfect coffee accompaniment.
Saudi Dates: A Portrait of the Sacred Fruit explores the many facets of this important fruit and its unique beauty. Original photography by Oliver Pilcher and illustrations by Rafael Alterio are supplemented by images by Ayoub Alsuhaibani. Created in collaboration with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Ministry of Culture, this title is the latest addition to the Saudi Arabia series, inviting readers to experience the many wonders of the nation.
Mohammed Bin Ismail Al-Ismail is Head of King Abdullah international city for dates. He is also a researcher and a specialist in palm trees and dates farming and production.
By Mohammed Bin Ismail Al-Ismail
10 x 13 in – 25 x 33 cm | 208 pages | over 100 illustrations | hardcover
ISBN: 9781649801708 | $105 – €105 – ￡85
FEBRUARY 28TH, 2023
SAUDI COFFEE: THE CULTURE OF HOSPITALITY
By Maher Al Nammary
"For Arabs and Saudis, coffee is an integrated part of our culture and identity. It’s how we show generosity and hospitality." — Sara Alali
Coffee is a staple across the globe as a warm beverage to start the morning or the
perfect pairing with dessert. In Saudi Arabia, coffee is a symbol. A symbol of hospitality, a symbol of national pride, and a symbol of time-honored traditions. Grown mainly in the southwest of the country, coffee beans are carefully tended, harvested, and roasted according to methods particular to each region, which provides a variety of flavors and aromas. The methods of serving coffee in Saudi Arabia have a long history and must be faithfully respected to ensure the appropriate welcome to guests. Hospitality is an important tradition in the Kingdom and is always accompanied with a cup of coffee.
Saudi Coffee: The Culture of Hospitality examines the region’s coffee, from seedling to refreshment. Original photography by Oliver Pilcher and illustrations by Rafael Alterio are supplemented by images by Ibrahim Sarhan, Mohammed Albaijan and Dhafer Alshehri. Created in collaboration with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Ministry of Culture, this title is the latest addition to the Saudi Arabia series, inviting readers to experience the many wonders of the nation.
Maher Raed Al Nammary is a Saudi Arabian chef, hospitality professional, and culinary educator with the goal of aim of bridging cultures and fostering understanding through the magic of food and art. His passion for the world of food and beverage stems from his belief that one can create deep and transcendent connections by sharing what we eat and drink.
By Maher Al Nammary
10 x 13 in – 25 x 33 cm | 216 pages | over 100 illustrations | hardcover
ISBN: 9781649801722 | $105 – €105 – ￡85
FEBRUARY 28TH, 2023
