In the picturesque village of Ramliyeh, Chouf, Saj Rima has become a household name, offering authentic Saj sandwiches made with a unique whole wheat dough. Founded by Rima Massoud, this family-led venture is built on tradition, sustainability, and a deep love for Lebanese cuisine. Every ingredient used at Saj Rima is carefully selected, with fresh vegetables and fruits sourced from an organically certified garden managed by Rima’s husband, Massoud, and her son, Kifah.
What started as a small endeavor at Souk El Tayeb’s farmers market 15 years ago has grown into a thriving business, thanks to Rima’s passion and dedication. Through the Ahlan Project with the support of UNICEF, Rima and her family were able to transform their small-scale operation into afully equipped kitchen, expanding their vision and reaching more customers. Today, Rima works alongside her daughter, Dalia, who now manages the business, while her son Kifah left his previous job to dedicate himself fully to the family enterprise. Together, they have built a brand that embodies quality, authenticity, and innovation.
Beyond her family, Rima’s initiative has had a significant impact on youth employment and training in the community. Through the Ahlan project, UNICEF has trained 19 Lebanese and non-Lebanese youth including 9 young women in traditional and sustainable culinary practices, provided opportunities for 10 short-term workers, and employed 5 youth including 2 girls on a permanent basis. By fostering local employment and organic farming, the business actively promotes sustainability and food security while offering high-quality, locally sourced products.
The success of Saj Rima has also opened doors for expansion. The family is currently exploring investment opportunities to open a second location in Beirut, turning their beloved brand into a potential franchise. Additionally, Saj Rima has gained international recognition, participating in three major events in the Gulf region, further increasing its visibility and growth potential.
Through hard work, innovation, and community support, Saj Rima has evolved into a model for sustainable, family-led entrepreneurship, preserving Lebanese culinary traditions while embracing new opportunities for expansion and development.
"I started baking when I was seven years old. I grew up with it, and then I had the chance to join Ahlan, which opened many doors for me. With my husband and kids, thankfully, people loved our manakish and everything we had to offer"
Rima Massoud
Funded the Australian Embassy in Lebanon and the French Embassy in Lebanon, supported by UNICEF and implemented by Souk El Tayeb, the Ahlan project aims to create job opportunities for youth and women, preserve Lebanese culture, promote local produce and agro-tourism, and foster community-based social enterprises across Lebanon.
