al-baik-restuarant.webp

Albaik History – From Jeddah’s Streets to a Global Fast-Food Icon

Al Baik History began in Jeddah in 1974, when it launched as a small, family-run restaurant specializing in broasted chicken. Over the years, it grew into a beloved fast-food chain, famous for its broasted chicken. Al Baik is more than just a fast-food restaurant; it’s a cultural icon that began its journey in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia in 1974. Founded by Shakkour Abu Ghazalah, Al Baik started as a modest, family-run venture that introduced the unique concept of broasted chicken to the Saudi market. Today, Al Baik is a household name across the Middle East and beyond, known for its consistent quality, irresistible flavors, and affordable meals.

The origin of Al Baik lies in the vibrant streets of Jeddah, where it opened its first branch offering broasted chicken—a pressure-fried technique that ensured a juicy inside and crispy outside. This revolutionary cooking method set Al Baik apart from traditional fried chicken brands and helped it build a strong, loyal customer base.

Al Baik’s story is shaped by the vision of the founder and his sons, Ihsan and Rami Abu Ghazalah, who modernized the brand while maintaining its original mission.

FounderShakkour Abu Ghazalah
FoundedSeptember 1974, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
HeadquarterJeddah, Saudi Arabia
registered as a trademarkAlbaik was registered as a trademark in Saudi Arabia in 1986
Area served
Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Pakistan, UK, USA.
ProductsAl Baik chicken meals, Burgers,  Sandwiches, Seafood, Vegetarian (Falafel Meal), Side orders, Desserts, Beverages, Al Baik Tea.

Al baik company was established by Shakour Abu Ghazala in 1974, Albaik has become a household name in Saudi Arabia, with numerous branches in cities like Jeddah, Riyadh, Medina, and Makkah. The restaurant is known for offering high-quality meals at competitive prices, typically ranging from 20 to 30 Saudi Riyals (around 5-8 US dollars ) for a complete meal. Over the years , Albaik has continually evolved its menu based on customer feedback, striving to deliver the best food possible. With over 195 outlets, including many outside Saudi Arabia, Albaik fast food remains popular for those seeking satisfying and affordable food options.

Albaik history origin and success story

Al Baik’s fried chicken quickly became synonymous with quality and flavor. The signature dish is seasoned with a secret blend of 18 spices, giving it a unique taste that customers find irresistible. This commitment to flavor and consistency played a major role in Al Baik’s rapid growth.

Though it began with a focus on chicken, the Al Baik menu has evolved over the years to include:

  • Fried shrimp and fish
  • Chicken nuggets
  • Wraps and burgers
  • Falafel meals for vegetarians
  • Garlic sauce and side dishes
  • Al Baik tea and desserts

The brand has maintained its promise of high-quality meals at affordable prices, usually ranging from SAR 20 to SAR 30 (approx. USD 5–8).

From Jeddah to the world, Al Baik’s expansion is a testament to its universal appeal. Today, Al Baik operates in:

  • Saudi Arabia (Jeddah, Riyadh, Mecca, Madinah)
  • United Arab Emirates (Dubai Mall)
  • Bahrain
  • Pakistan (via delivery platforms)
  • United States (Dearborn, Michigan)
  • United Kingdom

Al Baik has over 195 outlets worldwide, and this number continues to grow through strategic franchising and licensing.

In 2018, Al Baik opened its first international branch in Bahrain. The UAE followed with a flagship outlet in Dubai Mall in 2021. In the U.S., Al Baik is available in Michigan via DoorDash for both pickup and delivery. The brand has also made waves in countries like Canada, India, and various European cities due to strong word-of-mouth marketing.

albaik history fame and global expansion

Many fans believe Al Baik is better than KFC and other international fast-food chains. Reasons include:

  • Signature broasted chicken flavor
  • Competitive pricing
  • Halal-certified meals
  • Clean, family-friendly environment
  • Local and cultural connection

Is Al Baik halal? Absolutely. All Al Baik chicken and products are 100% halal, making it a trusted brand in Muslim-majority countries and among halal-conscious consumers globally.

Al Baik also participates in community outreach, especially during Hajj season, providing meals to pilgrims and donating to charitable causes. This human touch has strengthened the brand’s emotional connection with customers.

Albaik is famous for its unique broasted chicken with its signature tasty garlic sauce.

Yes, Al baik is unique because of its affordable and unbeatable prices.

Big Baik is albaik’s special sandwich with special sauce.

Yes, Albaik chicken is unquestionably halal and immensely popular in the Muslim world, especially in Saudi Arabia, Dubai, India, and Pakistan. The menu features an extensive selection of irresistibly flavorful items that delight customers.

Yes, Vegetarians love their crisp falafel with fries, pickle and special garlic sauce.

The Staff’s behavior is always respectful. Their service is fast and friendly. They serve customers  in a clean and inviting environment.

A gluten-free menu is available on request.

Yes, Albaik uses farm-fresh ingredients and signature Bateel homemade bread.

Albaik History

Al Baik’s journey from a single outlet in Jeddah to a global fast-food phenomenon is built on flavor, affordability, quality, and trust. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong fan, knowing the history of Al Baik adds a new layer of appreciation to every bite.

Saudi Arabian fast-food chain Albaik offers  unique broasted chicken. Unlike regular fried chicken, Albaik’s chicken is marinated and pressure-cooked with 18 secret spices.

Al Baik aimed to offer high-quality and affordable meals. The sons of Shakour Abu Ghazala, Ihsan and Rami Abu Ghazala, improved the brand’s offerings. Despite challenges and competition, they stood out in a crowded market by maintaining quality and innovation.

Al Baik’s reputation spread organically due to pilgrims visiting Makkah who shared their love for the food with others . This grassroots publicity helped the brand build a loyal customer base before expanding beyond Saudi Arabia. Al Baik is also known for its community engagement, donating a portion of sales to charity and serving meals to pilgrims during the Hajj season, which has further introduced it to customers.

Albaik’s success results from its unwavering focus on quality, consistency, and customer satisfaction. Albaik has cultivated a loyal customer base that unequivocally trusts the brand. Additionally, the company’s dedication to adapting its menu based on customer feedback has been pivotal in maintaining its competitive edge. Albaik’s approach is the most compelling example for other restaurants in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the criticality of upholding high standards and attentively heeding customer input to forge a thriving enterprise.