Renowned as the “Queen of Arab Cuisine,” Manal Al Alem has left an indelible mark on the culinary world through her decades-long career. With a celebrated cooking show on Abu Dhabi TV, two bestselling cookbooks, and a commitment to empowering others, her journey is one of passion, creativity, and resilience. From her humble beginnings to her innovative culinary ventures, Al Alem’s story is a testament to the transformative power of food.
A Childhood Spark
Manal’s love for cooking was ignited at just nine years old when she surprised her family with a cake she had learned to make at school. The unexpected success of that dessert earned her high praise from her mother’s friends, solidifying her lifelong dedication to the culinary arts.
“Even now, baking cakes remains my greatest joy in the kitchen,” Al Alem fondly recalls. Growing up in Saudi Arabia, she honed her skills by assisting her mother in preparing meals for their large family. However, it wasn’t until she moved to Kuwait after marriage that her culinary journey truly began.
Learning Through Passion
Facing the challenge of cooking independently, Al Alem sought inspiration from cooking classes and books, often requesting culinary tools as gifts. Her determination soon turned her into a confident chef, and her skills caught the attention of friends and neighbors. Hosting live cooking sessions for them was the beginning of her larger mission: making cooking a joyful experience rather than a chore.
What began as informal gatherings evolved into organized events as Al Alem rented kitchens in hotels to expand her audience. Her philosophy was simple yet profound: transform cooking into an art of happiness.
A Star on Arab Television
In 2000, Al Alem’s charisma and talent brought her to Abu Dhabi TV, where her cooking show, Sufra Da’ima (Always a Fest), became a household favorite. For nine years, she captivated viewers with her vibrant outfits, innovative recipes, and cheerful demeanor, cementing her status as a culinary icon in the Arab world.
Her influence extended beyond television. Al Alem authored cookbooks showcasing her diverse repertoire, but perhaps her most meaningful work was in the refugee camps of Jordan.
Cooking for a Cause
Al Alem’s visits to refugee camps were not just about cooking; they were about creating hope. Using limited ingredients like bulgur and olive oil, she taught displaced women how to prepare nutritious meals for their families. Her workshops also equipped many participants with the skills needed to secure jobs as school cooks.
“Cooking in such environments goes beyond feeding hunger; it’s about providing comfort and creating joy in challenging circumstances,” she explains.
She believes that bulgur and olive oil are unparalleled in their nutritional value, often calling them “the world’s most essential ingredients.” Whether in refugee camps or tumultuous areas like Gaza, she emphasizes the psychological value of a warm, wholesome meal.
From Earth to Space
Al Alem’s creativity knows no bounds. When asked what she would prepare for astronauts, she humorously suggested a date cake, combining tradition with innovation. For her, food is not just sustenance—it’s a universal language of connection.
Her legacy continues through new projects, including a recent collaboration with Fatafeat, where she created 90 unique desserts for Ramadan. Known for her inventive recipes, such as the luqaimat cake—a fusion of traditional dough balls and modern cake artistry—Al Alem consistently pushes culinary boundaries.
A Life of Sweet Memories
Even with hundreds of recipes to her name, Al Alem finds solace in simplicity. “When I’m feeling low, a plain sponge cake always lifts my spirits. It reminds me of my childhood and fills me with happiness.”
Today, Manal Al Alem remains an active figure in the culinary world, inspiring millions through social media, television, and community events. Her journey, fueled by passion and creativity, continues to enrich lives across the globe.