Introduction
Saudi Arabia is home to some of the most iconic fast-food chains in the Middle East, and two names stand out prominently:
Albaik and
Dunkin’. Both brands have carved a niche for themselves in the hearts of Saudis and expatriates alike. This article delves into the history, expansion, menus, and popularity of these two giants, providing a comprehensive overview of their presence in Saudi Arabia as of 2025. Whether you’re a fan of Albaik’s crispy fried chicken or Dunkin’s delectable donuts, this guide has all the details you need.
Albaik: The Story of Saudi Arabia’s Beloved Fast-Food Chain
How Albaik Started
Albaik, known as
منيوالبيك مطعم in Arabic, was founded in 1974 by
Shakour Abu Ghazalah in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The brand started as a small fried chicken restaurant with a simple mission: to provide high-quality, affordable, and delicious fast food to the people of Saudi Arabia. Albaik’s unique recipe for fried chicken, combined with its commitment to hygiene and customer satisfaction, quickly made it a household name.
Expansion and Growth
From its humble beginnings in Jeddah, Albaik has grown exponentially. By 2025, Albaik has become one of the most widespread fast-food chains in Saudi Arabia, with over
120 branches across the country. The brand’s success lies in its ability to maintain consistency in taste and quality while expanding its reach.
Albaik Menu: What Makes It Special?
Albaik’s menu is a testament to its simplicity and focus on quality. Here are some of the most popular dishes:
- Fried Chicken: Albaik’s signature dish, known for its crispy coating and juicy meat.
- Shrimp Meal: A fan favorite, especially in coastal cities like Jeddah.
- Broasted Chicken: A healthier alternative to fried chicken, cooked under pressure to retain moisture.
- Garlic Sauce: No Albaik meal is complete without their iconic garlic sauce, which has a cult following.
- Fish Fillet: A lighter option for seafood lovers.
In Saudi Arabia, the
fried chicken and
garlic sauce combo is the most beloved, often referred to as the ultimate comfort food.
Albaik Branches in Saudi Arabia (City-Wise)
As of 2025, Albaik has expanded its presence to almost every major city in Saudi Arabia. Here’s a breakdown of its branches:
Jeddah
- Albaik Tahlia Street: One of the oldest and most famous branches.
- Albaik Corniche: Known for its scenic views and popularity among families.
- Albaik Al Hamra: A bustling branch in one of Jeddah’s busiest districts.
Riyadh
- Albaik Olaya Street: A favorite among office workers and shoppers.
- Albaik King Fahd Road: Known for its spacious seating and quick service.
- Albaik Malaz: Popular among residents in the Malaz area.
Mecca
- Albaik Ajyad Street: A go-to spot for pilgrims and locals.
- Albaik Al Aziziyah: Known for its large seating capacity and efficient service.
Medina
- Albaik King Faisal Road: A popular branch near the Prophet’s Mosque.
- Albaik Qurban: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere.
Dammam
- Albaik King Abdullah Street: A favorite among Eastern Province residents.
- Albaik Corniche Dammam: Offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.
Other Cities
- Taif: Albaik Al Rudaf
- Khobar: Albaik Dhahran Street
- Yanbu: Albaik Yanbu Industrial Area
Most Famous Albaik Branches
Some branches have gained legendary status due to their history, location, or popularity:
- Albaik Tahlia Street (Jeddah): The original branch that started it all.
- Albaik Corniche (Jeddah): Perfect for a meal with a view of the Red Sea.
- Albaik Olaya Street (Riyadh): A hotspot for Riyadh’s urban crowd.
Dunkin’ in Saudi Arabia: A Sweet Success Story
How Dunkin’ Started in Saudi Arabia
Dunkin’, known globally for its coffee and donuts, entered the Saudi market in the early 2000s. The brand quickly gained traction due to its wide variety of donuts, coffee, and other baked goods. By 2025,
منيو دانكن Dunkin’ has established itself as one of the leading coffee and donut chains in Saudi Arabia.
Expansion and Branches
As of 2025, Dunkin’ operates over
200 branches across Saudi Arabia, making it one of the most widespread coffee chains in the country. The brand has a strong presence in major cities like Riyadh
, Jeddah, Dammam, and Mecca, as well as in smaller towns.
Dunkin’ Menu: What’s on Offer?
Dunkin’s menu is a delightful mix of sweet and savory items. Here are some of the most popular options:
- Donuts: The heart of Dunkin’s menu, with flavors like:
- Glazed Donut: A classic favorite.
- Chocolate Frosted Donut: Perfect for chocolate lovers.
- Strawberry Frosted Donut: A fruity delight.
- Coffee: Dunkin’s coffee is a hit among Saudis, with options like:
- Americano
- Cappuccino
- Caramel Macchiato
- Sandwiches and Wraps: For those looking for a savory option.
- Munchkins: Bite-sized donut holes that are perfect for sharing.
The
Glazed Donut and
Caramel Macchiato are the most popular items in Saudi Arabia, often enjoyed together as a perfect snack or breakfast combo.
Dunkin’ Branches in Saudi Arabia
Dunkin’ has a strong presence in all major Saudi cities. Here are some of the most famous branches:
Riyadh
- Dunkin’ Olaya Street: A favorite among coffee lovers.
- Dunkin’ Kingdom Tower: Known for its luxurious ambiance.
Jeddah
- Dunkin’ Tahlia Street: Popular among young professionals.
- Dunkin’ Red Sea Mall: A hotspot for shoppers.
Dammam
- Dunkin’ King Abdullah Street: A go-to spot for Eastern Province residents.
- Dunkin’ Marina Mall: Offers stunning views of the Gulf.
Mecca
- Dunkin’ Ajyad Street: Popular among pilgrims and locals.
- Dunkin’ Al Aziziyah: Known for its quick service.
Medina
- Dunkin’ King Faisal Road: A favorite among visitors to the Prophet’s Mosque.
- Dunkin’ Qurban: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere.
Most Famous Dunkin’ Branches
- Dunkin’ Olaya Street (Riyadh): Known for its vibrant atmosphere and loyal customer base.
- Dunkin’ Tahlia Street (Jeddah): A favorite among Jeddah’s urban crowd.
- Dunkin’ Kingdom Tower (Riyadh): Offers a luxurious experience with stunning city views.
Albaik vs. Dunkin’: A Comparison
While Albaik and Dunkin’ cater to different tastes—Albaik for savory fast food and Dunkin’ for sweet treats—they share some similarities:
- Affordability: Both brands are known for offering high-quality food at reasonable prices.
- Consistency: Whether you’re in Riyadh or Jeddah, the taste and quality remain the same.
- Popularity: Both brands have a loyal customer base and are deeply ingrained in Saudi culture.
Conclusion
As of 2025,
Albaik and
Dunkin’ continue to dominate the Saudi fast-food scene. Albaik’s crispy fried chicken and iconic garlic sauce remain unmatched, while Dunkin’s donuts and coffee are the go-to choices for sweet cravings. With hundreds of branches across the country, both brands have successfully catered to the diverse tastes of Saudi Arabia’s population. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a sweet treat, Albaik and Dunkin’ have got you covered.
