Best Desserts in Makkah
أفضل حلويات في مكة
2 min readUpdated 30 Sept 2026
Evenings in Makkah often end with something sweet. Arabian, Turkish and international desserts are all easy to find, and dessert shops stay busy late into the night — especially after Taraweeh in Ramadan.
Arabian and Middle Eastern sweets
- Kunafa — shredded pastry filled with soft cheese or cream, soaked in syrup and topped with pistachio.
- Basbousa — semolina cake soaked in syrup, often with coconut or almonds.
- Luqaimat — small fried dough balls drizzled with date syrup, a Gulf Ramadan classic.
- Maamoul — shortbread filled with dates, pistachio or walnuts.
- Dates — Saudi Arabia is one of the world's largest date producers; Ajwa, Sukkari and Khalas are popular varieties.
Turkish desserts
Baklava — layers of filo with pistachio or walnut and syrup — is hugely popular. MADO, a Turkish chain, is known for baklava and its stretchy Maraş-style ice cream.
Ice cream and international sweets
- Baskin Robbins and Ice Cream Corner for scoops and sundaes.
- Ben's Cookies — warm, soft cookies from the brand that started in Oxford, England.
- Krispy Kreme and Dunkin' for donuts by the box.
- B.laban for Egyptian-style milk desserts, and Golden Basbosati for basbousa.
Keeping desserts cold in the heat
Ice cream and cream-based sweets melt quickly in Makkah. Order them for delivery when you are already back in your hotel, and eat them soon after they arrive.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most popular dessert in Saudi Arabia?
Kunafa, basbousa, luqaimat and dates are among the most loved, alongside Turkish baklava.
Where can I get baklava in Makkah?
MADO is a popular Turkish brand for baklava and ice cream, and it can be ordered to your hotel on Feast Makkah.
What dates are famous in Saudi Arabia?
Ajwa (strongly associated with Madinah), Sukkari and Khalas are among the best-known varieties.
