MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 to be revealed 3 February

The fifth edition of the Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants will return to Abu Dhabi on 3 February 2026. 

 

The UAE capital will host the event to underpin the city’s growing ambition to become a culinary hub, supported by Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism. 

 

The 2026 programme will feature a range of events and ticketed functions, including Flavours of 50 Best evening brunch, and 50 Best Signature Sessions, a series of exclusive dinners with chefs from the MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants list. #50BestTalks, a thought-leadership forum with the region’s culinary experts, also returns this season. 

 

In addition to the Best Restaurant awards, a series of distinct accolades will also be announced, such as Best Female Chef Award and the Icon Award. The Champions of Change Award, Art of Hospitality Award and American Express One To Watch Award will be announced ahead of the main event.

 

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William Drew, Director of Content for 50 Best, recognises the fifth edition of the listing as a milestone for the organisation. “Over the past four years, the awards have spotlighted remarkable restaurants and shone a light on diverse food traditions from across the region, while also recognising emerging talent alongside established names,” he said. “What excites us most is seeing chefs push boundaries, reinterpret heritage and create dining experiences that live long in the memory.” 

 

Launched in 2022, the annual ranking of the 50 Best Restaurants is curated by a group of 250 experts from 19 countries across the MENA region. 

 

The 2025 edition showcased restaurants from 11 cities, with Dubai’s Orfali Bros earning the title of Best Restaurant in the region, marking the bistro’s third consecutive win.   

For more information, visit theworlds50best.com/mena