Michelin Guide Arrives in Saudi Arabia

A new era of culinary recognition is about to begin

Saudi Arabia is officially on the world’s culinary map. The Michelin Guide, the prestigious authority on global dining excellence, has announced its arrival in the Kingdom, marking a monumental moment for Saudi Arabia’s rapidly evolving food scene.

The first-ever Michelin Guide Saudi Arabia will spotlight exceptional restaurants in Riyadh and Jeddah, two cities that have recently emerged as dynamic culinary capitals, drawing global attention for their bold flavors, refined concepts, and diverse gastronomic offerings. From modern interpretations of Saudi cuisine to world-class omakase and French fine dining, the Kingdom is now home to a new standard of culinary sophistication and Michelin is taking notice.

“We have witnessed Saudi Arabia’s culinary landscape grow with creativity, authenticity, and ambition,” said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide. “This is a significant milestone for the region and for global gastronomy.”

The announcement comes at a time when Saudi Arabia’s cultural and lifestyle sectors are experiencing unprecedented growth. Dining has become a central part of the nation’s creative and social fabric, with chefs, restaurateurs, and hospitality leaders raising the bar across the board. From hyperlocal pop-ups to luxury hotel dining rooms, a new class of culinary talent is shaping Saudi Arabia’s food identity and elevating it to international acclaim.

Why It Matters

For chefs and restaurateurs, a Michelin star is more than an accolade, it’s an invitation to the global culinary conversation. For Saudi Arabia, the Guide's arrival is a sign of its cultural maturity and its place on the world stage. It’s a moment of validation for a hospitality scene that has been investing, experimenting, and innovating at a record pace.

The inclusion of Saudi cities in the Michelin Guide also reflects the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals to diversify its economy, support homegrown talent, and cultivate a vibrant cultural ecosystem.

What to Expect

The first selection of starred, Bib Gourmand, and recommended restaurants is expected to be revealed later this year. The anticipation is already palpable among the country’s top chefs, with culinary insiders speculating which beloved institutions and rising stars will make the cut.

From heritage-rich Saudi kitchens to high-concept global imports, the Kingdom is poised to deliver a uniquely regional take on world-class cuisine.

The Riyadh Edit Take

We’ve long said Riyadh is having a moment: now, it has Michelin’s attention. Whether you’re a seasoned gourmand or simply savoring the joy of a perfectly plated dish, this news marks a turning point in how we dine, discover, and define luxury in Saudi Arabia.

Stay tuned - we’ll be at the table when the stars are announced.