52 restaurants debut in Saudi Arabia’s first Michelin Guide

The inaugural Michelin Guide Saudi Arabia 2026 has been revealed, naming 52 restaurants across Riyadh, Jeddah and AlUla. Among the selection, 11 have earned the coveted Bib Gourmand distinction, while 41 others have been recognised for their culinary excellence. Michelin Star distinctions will be included in the 2027 edition.

 

The launch marks a major milestone in Michelin’s Middle East expansion, adding Saudi Arabia to a lineup that includes Doha (launched in 2024) and Abu Dhabi and Dubai, now in their fourth editions. The Saudi list was introduced digitally in three stages via the Michelin Guide’s dedicated platform. 

 

Throughout 2025, Michelin inspectors travelled the kingdom, dining everywhere from heritage-rich village houses to contemporary fine-dining venues in major cities. Each restaurant was evaluated according to Michelin’s five universal criteria: quality of ingredients, harmony of flavours, mastery of technique, chef’s personality, and consistency over time.

 

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Commenting on the launch, Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide, said Saudi Arabia is fast emerging as a destination “where tradition meets global creativity”, with restaurants offering a “rich mix of influences, blending Saudi roots with Levantine warmth, Peruvian flair and international sophistication.” 

 

He added: “This diversity reflects a nation proud of its culture yet open to the world, offering experiences that surprise and delight at every turn. Saudi Arabia is not just preserving its culinary identity, it is shaping a vibrant future for its gastronomic scene.”

 

Riyadh, Jeddah and AlUla take centre stage

In Riyadh, 33 restaurants made it into the Guide, with inspectors praising the capital’s “dynamic dining scene” that combines global flavours with traditional Saudi hospitality.

 

Among the seven Bib Gourmands recognised, Em Sherif Café stood out for its Lebanese flavours and generous, shareable dishes, while Fi Glbak impressed with its creative menu inspired by five Saudi regions – a communal dining experience crowned by a kunafah presented beneath a striking tree-trunk installation.

 

Other notable Riyadh entries include Najd Village, known for its heritage-style interiors and curated ‘Village Trip’ menus; Sasani, offering hearty Persian-inspired specialities; and Tameesa, which showcases authentic Hijazi-style cuisine.