The MICHELIN Guide Officially Expands to Saudi Arabia
For those unfamiliar, MICHELIN's reputation rests on its famously anonymous inspectors, who travel the world in search of culinary brilliance. In Saudi Arabia, they've been quietly tasting their way across the Kingdom for some time, and now their findings are set to take centre stage.
'Over the past few years, our MICHELIN inspectors have been keeping a watchful eye on the Kingdom's culinary progression,' says Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide. 'They continue to relish the wonderful spectrum that this fast-developing country has to offer.'
The guide's entry into Saudi Arabia doesn't just celebrate fine food, it nods to the broader evolution of a nation balancing deep-rooted tradition with contemporary flair. From the deserts of Najd to the Red Sea coast, the Kingdom offers a backdrop as rich as its recipes. UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Diriyah sit side by side with futuristic megaprojects, making the culinary offerings just one piece of an increasingly fascinating puzzle.
Hospitality is at the heart of Saudi culture. Whether you're being handed a dish of fragrant kabsa in a traditional home or biting into a modern chef's reimagining of a centuries-old recipe, there's a common thread: generosity, pride, and flavour.
And let's talk diversity. Beyond local dishes like masabeeb (honey-drenched pancakes) and sambosas with a Saudi twist, the Kingdom's dining scene features Japanese omakase counters, upscale Greek bistros, American comfort food, and more. Riyadh's VIA district alone is a who's who of global restaurant brands. Simply put, Saudi Arabia's restaurant culture is no longer just booming; it's global, and now, MICHELIN-approved.
Mayada Badr, CEO of the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission, says this moment has been a long time coming: 'Our collaboration with the MICHELIN Guide marks an important milestone in celebrating the unique and diverse culinary scene of Saudi Arabia. It shines a light on the creativity and excellence of our chefs and restaurants and invites the world to discover the distinct flavours and experiences the Kingdom has to offer.'
It's more than just recognition. MICHELIN's arrival will put local chefs on an international platform, encourage culinary innovation, and attract food travellers to experience Saudi's flavours first-hand.
Behind the stars and hype is a consistent methodology. MICHELIN inspectors work independently and anonymously, rating restaurants on five core criteria: Quality of the ingredients
Mastery of cooking techniques
Harmony of flavours
Personality of the chef through the cuisine
Consistency over time and across the menu
The famous stars are awarded as follows: One Star for high-quality cooking, worth a stop
for high-quality cooking, worth a stop Two Stars for excellent cooking, worth a detour
for excellent cooking, worth a detour Three Stars for exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey
There's also the Bib Gourmand category, celebrating places that serve good food at moderate prices—because great doesn't always have to mean pricey.
Rather than a single grand unveiling, MICHELIN will roll out its first Saudi restaurant selection across three digital releases. On the 15th of each month from October to December 2025, new names will be revealed on the official platform.
So, whether you're a seasoned foodie or just curious where to eat on your next trip to Riyadh or Jeddah, the Kingdom's MICHELIN moment is now, and the guide is just getting started.
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