Gault&Millau launches in Saudi Arabia

Global gastronomy guide Gault&Millau launched in Saudi Arabia on 2 June 2026 with the release of its inaugural guide and awards ceremony in Riyadh.

 

Held at the Radisson Manhal – Riyadh, the inaugural event was hosted in collaboration with the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission and brought together chefs, restaurateurs and hospitality professionals, among other partners, to celebrate the kingdom’s culinary sector.

 

The inaugural 2026 guide featured a curated selection of nearly 250 restaurants across five Saudi cities, including Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, Dammam and Abha. Each winning venue will receive a Gault&Millau plaque. 

 

In the ratings, 140 restaurants received one toque, 34 received two toques and four received three toques. The highest-rated restaurants were Wadi, Julien by Daniel Boulud and Nomas in Riyadh, alongside Lola Brasserie in Jeddah, each receiving three toques. An additional 66 restaurants were noted in the Selected category. Toques correspond with a score out of 20, based on key factors including menu, service and atmosphere. 

 

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The ceremony also recognised individual industry leaders across a range of categories. Wed Saleh was named Chef of the Year, while Hachem Taleb received Pastry Chef of the Year. Other honourees included Elia Kaadi, Emerging Chef of the Year; Nihal Felemban, Young Talent of the Year; and Sara Katanani, General Manager of the Year. 

 

Mayada Badr, CEO of the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission, said: “This platform contributes to strengthening the visibility of Saudi gastronomy locally and internationally while supporting the Kingdom’s broader cultural transformation.” Badr was also recognised for her work in the industry with a special Leadership Award during the event. 

 

Saudi becomes the second GCC market to receive a dedicated Gault&Millau guide after the UAE, where the guide launched in 2022. The organisation publishes guides in more than 20 countries worldwide.

 

For more information, visit sa.gaultmillau.com