The MICHELIN Guide has officially announced its expansion into Saudi Arabia, with its inaugural restaurant selection set to be unveiled towards the end of this year.
The highly anticipated Saudi Arabia 2026 edition will mark the latest addition to the guide’s global portfolio.
Anonymous MICHELIN Inspectors are already on the ground, exploring key cities such as Riyadh and Jeddah, and extending their reach to areas including Khobar, AlUla and beyond. Their evaluations are being conducted according to the MICHELIN Guide’s established methodology, focusing on five universal criteria: ingredient quality, mastery of cooking techniques, flavour harmony, the personality of the cuisine, and consistency over time and across the menu.
Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide, said that inspectors have been “keeping a watchful eye on the Kingdom’s culinary progression and continue to relish the wonderful spectrum that this fast-developing country has to offer.”
Saudi Arabia’s diverse culinary landscape combines deep-rooted traditions with modern influences. Local dishes such as kabsa, masabeeb and sambosass sit alongside global cuisines including American, Thai, Japanese and Greek. Dining venues range from traditional restaurants preserving heritage recipes to contemporary establishments led by innovative chefs.
The MICHELIN Guide’s arrival is backed by the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission. Its CEO, Mayada Badr, said the collaboration “marks an important milestone in celebrating the unique and diverse culinary scene of Saudi Arabia.” She added that the move would highlight the excellence of Saudi chefs and restaurants on a global platform.
For the first time, the MICHELIN Guide Saudi Arabia 2026 selection will be released in three stages, with announcements scheduled on the 15th of each month from October to December 2025. The selections will be published on the MICHELIN Guide’s official digital platform.
The guide’s distinctions will include the internationally recognised MICHELIN Stars as well as the Bib Gourmand category, which highlights restaurants offering good quality food at moderate prices. The MICHELIN Guide continues to emphasise impartiality, with all restaurant evaluations carried out anonymously and independently.
