Riyadh and Jeddah were already heating up the food scene but now Michelin has certifiably agreed.
On June 24, 2025, Michelin officially announced that its first-ever Saudi Arabia edition will launch in late 2025, spotlighting the Kingdom’s top restaurants. Focus cities include Riyadh and Jeddah, with eyes also on Khobar, UNESCO-listed AlUla and Red Sea gems. This edition follows successful launches across the Middle East including in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar.
The unveiling is set to unfold in three waves, October 15, November 15, and December 15, 2025 on Michelin’s dedicated digital platform.
The secret star inspectors, otherwise known as Michelin’s notoriously anonymous inspectors, are already exploring the Kingdom’s kitchens, assessing quality, technique, harmony, personality and consistency, with one goal in mind, to showcase both haute dining and local gems, all through a lens of Saudi flavor.
Gwendal Poullennec, Michelin’s international director, praised Saudi’s culinary momentum and said inspectors are committed to “unearthing all the culinary gems”. Mayada Badr, CEO of the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission, sees the partnership as a milestone, shining a global light on Saudi chefs and their creativity.
In short, prepare your tastebuds for a map to the Kingdom’s tastiest tables. May the best gourmand win!
