How many calories are in Saudi bread?

December 2, 2025 •

4 min read

Saudi bread, a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, comes in many varieties, with caloric content varying significantly depending on the type and ingredients used. A scientific study found that the energy content per 100g of Saudi bread can range from 190 kcal to nearly 400 kcal, highlighting the importance of understanding the specific type you are consuming.

Quick Summary

The number of calories in Saudi bread varies widely by type, from tamees and shami to other regional flatbreads. Calorie counts are influenced by ingredients like flour, fat, and added components like cheese or ghee. Understanding these differences is crucial for dietary planning and making informed choices.

Key Points

Variety Matters: Caloric content in Saudi bread varies significantly based on the type (e.g., tamees vs. shami) and preparation methods.
Tamees is Calorie-Dense: Plain tamees can contain around 398 kcal per 100g, while enriched versions with cheese or ghee can be much higher.
Shami Bread is Moderate: A standard serving of shami bread typically falls between 260-300 calories, with whole wheat versions being slightly less caloric.
Fat and Add-ins Increase Calories: The use of oil or ghee and additions like cheese, dates, or honey will increase the overall calorie and fat content.
Whole Wheat is Often Healthier: Breads made with whole wheat, like brown shami or Al-Qursan, offer more fiber and can be a better choice for diet management.
Read Labels When Possible: For commercially produced Arabic bread, checking nutritional labels is the most accurate way to determine calorie and macronutrient content.

Understanding the Caloric Spectrum of Saudi Bread

The term “Saudi bread” encompasses a wide variety of traditional breads, each with unique ingredients, preparation methods, and therefore, different calorie counts. Unlike a standardized product, Saudi bread varies greatly, from fluffy, everyday flatbreads to more dense, enriched versions. Factors such as the type of flour (white vs. whole wheat), the addition of fats like ghee or oil, and extra ingredients such as seeds, cheese, or dates all contribute to the final calorie count.

Calorie Breakdown of Common Saudi Breads

While a precise calorie count for 'all' Saudi bread is impossible, here is a detailed breakdown of some of the most popular types based on available data and typical preparation.

Tamees

Regular Tamees: This traditional, popular flatbread is often served with beans or other dishes. A scientific study found that tamees can have an energy content of around 398.1 kcal per 100g. Other sources suggest a smaller piece may contain approximately 265 calories, but a large piece could be over 500 calories. This variation is due to size differences and preparation, including whether oil or milk is used.
Enriched Tamees: Varieties with additions like cheese, ghee, or sesame seeds significantly increase the caloric density. For example, a tamees with cheese and sugar can reach up to 840 calories.

Shami Bread

White Shami Bread: A common Arabic bread, a serving can contain around 270 to 300 calories, depending on the brand and size. It has a relatively standard profile, with moderate carbs and low fat.
Brown Shami Bread: Made with whole wheat flour, this version is often slightly lower in calories and higher in fiber than its white counterpart. A serving might contain approximately 260 calories.

Other Traditional Breads

Khubz al-jamri: A southern regional bread cooked on hot charcoal ashes. Its simple preparation with flour, water, and salt suggests a lower calorie count, but the smoky flavor adds unique character.
Al-Qursan: A thin, crispy bread from central regions. A scientific study noted that korsan had a lower energy content of 354.6 kcal/100g but a high fiber content.
Khubz ahmar: A distinctive 'red bread' from the al-Ahsa Governorate, made with dates, which adds a reddish color and a sweeter, more caloric profile.

Factors Influencing Calorie Content in Saudi Bread

Several factors play a crucial role in determining the final calorie count of Saudi bread. Being mindful of these can help make healthier dietary choices.

Key Ingredients

Flour Type: Whole wheat flour, used in breads like brown shami, typically offers more fiber and a lower glycemic index compared to white flour, though the total calories may be similar.
Fats and Oils: Many traditional recipes include oil or ghee to enhance flavor and texture. The amount used, especially in varieties like ghee tamees, directly increases the calorie and fat content.
Added Ingredients: Fillings like cheese, honey, or dates can dramatically increase the overall caloric value. A plain tamees is far less caloric than one filled with rich ingredients.

Preparation Method

Baking vs. Frying: Most traditional Saudi breads are baked in an oven or tandoor, but some modern or regional variations might involve frying, which adds significant calories.
Dough Enrichment: Some recipes add milk or yogurt, which can enrich the flavor and texture but also slightly increase calories.

Comparison of Saudi Breads (per 100g)

This table provides a generalized comparison of the estimated nutritional profile per 100g for different types of Saudi bread, based on available research and product data.


Bread Type	Calories (kcal)	Protein (g)	Fat (g)	Carbs (g)	Fiber (g)	Notes
Tamees	398	9.8	3.3	64.5	2.6	Higher fat and calorie content than other basic flatbreads.
Khubz Al-Qursan	355	9.0	0.6	60.0	10.6	Lower in calories and fat, notably high in fiber.
Standard Arabic (White)	279	8.2	1.0	60.0	0.5	A common variety, low in fat and fiber.
Arabic (Whole Wheat)	316	9.8	1.5	64.5	3.5	Whole wheat adds more fiber compared to the white version.
Modern Bakery Arabic	256	4.0	0.5	27.0	2.0	Commercial variants can vary significantly in their composition.

Conclusion: Making Informed Choices About Saudi Bread

As this overview shows, there is no single answer to the question, "How many calories are in Saudi bread?" The caloric value is a direct result of the specific type, ingredients, and preparation. For those mindful of their calorie intake, options like Al-Qursan or other whole-wheat varieties offer a better nutritional profile due to higher fiber and lower fat content. By contrast, enriched breads like cheese or ghee tamees should be consumed in moderation due to their higher caloric density. The best approach is to understand the variety you are eating and adjust your portion sizes accordingly to fit your dietary goals.

For further reading on nutritional values and Saudi food analysis, you can consult studies like those available on ScienceDirect.(https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/030881469290209K)

Frequently Asked Questions

Breads like Al-Qursan, a thin and crispy whole wheat flatbread, typically have a lower calorie count due to their simple preparation and higher fiber content.

No, the nutritional profile can vary significantly. Breads differ based on ingredients (flour type, fat, milk), size, and preparation, leading to a wide range of calorie counts.

Additives like cheese, ghee, or sugar dramatically increase the calorie count. For instance, a regular tamees might have around 400 kcal per 100g, but with cheese and sugar, it can rise significantly.

Yes, you can include Saudi bread in a diet by choosing lower-calorie varieties, such as Al-Qursan or brown shami, and controlling your portion sizes. Being mindful of rich additions is also key.

Relative to some other Saudi flatbreads, tamees is considered high in calories due to its ingredients, which often include milk and oil. Studies show it can have a higher energy content compared to other varieties.

Yes, cooking method can influence calories. While most are baked, varieties fried in oil will have a higher fat and calorie content compared to those baked in a tandoor or on hot charcoal.

Whole wheat varieties generally have a slightly different nutritional profile, including more fiber and sometimes slightly fewer calories per serving than their white flour counterparts, though the difference can vary.