The World Class Tasty Food
Albaik History – From Jeddah’s Streets to a Global Fast-Food Icon
Albaik History began in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in 1974, when it launched as a small, family-run restaurant specializing in broasted chicken. Over the years, it has grown into a beloved fast-food chain, famous for its signature broasted chicken and garlic sauce. Today, Albaik is more than a restaurant—it’s a cultural icon across the Middle East and beyond.
Origin and Founder
Albaik was founded by Shakkour Abu Ghazalah in 1974 in Jeddah. Starting as a modest family venture, Albaik introduced the pressure-fried broasted chicken technique, which ensured a juicy inside and crispy outside—revolutionizing the Saudi fried chicken market.
The founder, along with his sons Ihsan and Rami Abu Ghazalah, modernized the brand while maintaining its original mission: delivering high-quality, affordable, and flavorful meals.
Key Facts:
| Founder | Shakkour Abu Ghazalah |
| Founded | September 1974, Makkah, Saudi Arabia |
| Headquarter | Jeddah, Saudi Arabia |
| registered as a trademark | Albaik was registered as a trademark in Saudi Arabia in 1986 |
| Area served | Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Pakistan, UK, USA. |
| Products | Al Baik chicken meals, Burgers, Sandwiches, Seafood, Vegetarian (Falafel Meal), Side orders, Desserts, Beverages, Al Baik Tea. |
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.
The Rise of Broasted Chicken
Albaik’s signature broasted chicken became synonymous with quality and irresistible flavor, seasoned with a secret blend of 18 spices. This commitment to taste, consistency, and affordability helped Albaik grow rapidly in Saudi Arabia, building a loyal customer base before expanding internationally.
Evolution of the Menu
Originally focused on chicken, Albaik’s menu has evolved to include:
- Fried shrimp and fish
- Chicken nuggets
- Wraps and burgers
- Vegetarian options like falafel meals
- Garlic sauces and side dishes
- Desserts and Albaik tea
Pricing (Saudi Arabia, 2026 approx.):
- Complete meals: SAR 20–30 (USD 5–8)
The menu adapts based on customer feedback, ensuring high-quality meals at competitive prices.
How Al Baik Became A Global Brand?
From Jeddah to the world, Al Baik’s expansion is a testament to its universal appeal. Today, Al Baik operates in:
| Country / Region | Details |
|---|---|
| Saudi Arabia | Headquarters; ~152 outlets across Jeddah, Riyadh, Mecca, Medina, Dammam, and Eastern Region. |
| United Arab Emirates (UAE) | Entered 2021; first branch at The Dubai Mall; branches in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al-Khaimah, Al Ain. |
| Bahrain | First international branch outside Saudi Arabia in December 2020. |
| Kuwait | Opened 2025, first known branch at The Avenues Mall. |
| Pakistan | Planned entry in 2026 through local partnership. |
Al Baik has over 195 outlets worldwide, and this number continues to grow through strategic franchising and licensing.
Franchise and International Reach
2018: First international branch in Bahrain
2021: UAE flagship outlet in Dubai Mall
USA: Available in Michigan via DoorDash (pickup and delivery)
Expansion into Canada, India, and Europe through strong word-of-mouth marketing
Why Al Baik Stands Out
Many fans believe Al Baik is better than KFC. Albaik is preferred over many international fast-food chains due to:
- Unique broasted chicken flavor
- Affordable pricing
- 100% Halal meals
- Clean, family-friendly restaurants
- Strong local and cultural connection
Halal Certification
Is Al Baik halal? Yes, Albaik is 100% halal, making it a trusted choice for Muslim-majority countries and halal-conscious consumers worldwide.
Community Engagement
Albaik is committed to community service, including:
- Donating meals to pilgrims during Hajj
- Supporting charitable initiatives across Saudi Arabia and globally
This community focus strengthens Albaik’s emotional connection with its customers
Frequently Asked Question
The Albaik Success Story
From a single outlet in Jeddah to a global fast-food phenomenon, Albaik’s success is built on:
- Flavor and consistency — delivering the signature 18-spice broasted chicken that customers love.
- Affordable, high-quality meals — maintaining value without compromising taste.
- Customer-focused menu innovation — adapting offerings based on feedback and evolving preferences.
- Community and charity engagement — supporting pilgrims during Hajj and participating in charitable initiatives.
Pilgrims and local fans helped Albaik gain loyalty and international recognition, spreading its reputation worldwide. Its unwavering focus on quality, consistency, and customer satisfaction has made Albaik a model of fast-food excellence in Saudi Arabia and beyond. By listening to customers and continuously refining its menu, Albaik maintains a competitive edge and sets a benchmark for other restaurants in the region.