The Week of Italian Cuisine in the World is one of the longest-running thematic initiatives promoted by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
Launched in 2016 to build on the key themes of Expo Milano 2015 – quality, sustainability, food safety, local heritage, biodiversity, identity and education – the initiative celebrates the excellence of Italy’s food and wine sector and promotes its international reach. Each year, through a dedicated theme, its activities showcase regional products and culinary traditions, the protection of geographical indications and protected designations of origin, sustainable production processes, and Italy’s rich gastronomic heritage and culinary destinations.
The 11th edition of the Week of Italian Cuisine in the World will take place from 16 to 29 November 2026, under the theme “Italian Cuisine, UNESCO Heritage: Territories and Excellence in Food Supply Chains.” The initiative aims to highlight local products, the close connection between cuisine and its territories of origin, and the culinary knowledge and traditions passed down from generation to generation.
This year’s edition holds particular significance, as it is the first to take place following the recognition of Italian cuisine as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
On the occasion of the 2026 Week of Italian Cuisine in the World, the Consulate General of Italy in Jeddah is pleased to make available, free of charge, a Recipe Book, developed through a collaboration between the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the University of Parma, and ALMA – The International School of Italian Cuisine.
