Freelance Chef Licence Launches Through Saudi Culinary Commission

The Ministry of Culture's Abde’a Cultural Licences Platform is offering freelance culinary licences for the first time, giving trained Saudi chefs the legal right to work independently without being tied to a restaurant or catering company.

The licence is available to citizens aged 18 and above who hold certified culinary training and valid food safety or health credentials.

The move expands access to freelance work in the food sector, letting chefs participate in everything from private catering to public festivals and brand collaborations. It also creates a legal path for more informal or home-based food talent to transition into the professional arena.

Saudi Arabia has increasingly turned to licensing platforms like Abde’a to support cultural sectors. This latest update comes as the Kingdom places more emphasis on creative industries as part of its long-term economic goals.