The Michelin guide is to be introduced in Dubai in June 2022.
While the most populated emirate in the UAE is no stranger to high-end restaurants it has yet to be given the seal of approval from ‘The Little Red Book’. Michelin starred chefs have long since opened their restaurant brands in Dubai, with the likes of Gordon Ramsay, Jason Atherton and Kim Joinie-Maurin all owning ventures, but the official star grading has (until now) been lacking.
In a recent announcement, the Michelin guide said the city has "a very interesting dining culture", offering "authentic Emirati and Middle Eastern cuisines and international dining options fronted by world-renowned chefs".
Dubai marks the 36th area the guide will cover, with it already part of the dining landscape in cities such as Hong Kong, Tokyo, London, and Paris. Aside from the cities themselves it also covers whole countries such as France and the UK.
While stars will no doubt be the main aim for many of Dubai’s restaurants, the Michelin guide will also be handing out prestigious Bib Gourmand awards. These are designed to celebrate great value and good cooking in relation to three course menus.
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There have been rumours of the Michelin guide expanding its reach in the UAE since 2016. At the time, its former international director Michael Ellis told Time Out Dubai it was "only a matter of time" before it found itself in Dubai. Six years and a pandemic later and we're finally seeing the realisation of that dream.
"Our team of inspectors is already on the field, in order to prepare the first selection of restaurants, which will be revealed in June." international director of the Michelin Guides, Gwendal Poullennec said.
"We will be showcasing the best of Dubai's gastronomy, to reflect not just the sophistication that the city is famed for, but also the wide diversity of cuisines that the city's location and history provide."
Thanks to a high-spend clientele, Dubai has long-since been a base for many of the world’s best chefs. While some have prospered in the competitive market, others haven’t fared so well, with Nathan Outlaw, the Galvin brothers and Heston Blumenthal all trying their hand at successful ventures, only to close their restaurants not long afterwards.
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