Abu Dhabi Set to Host MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026
- Publish date: Thursday، 30 October 2025 Reading time: 1 min read
The capital will once again take the spotlight as the region’s top chefs, restaurants, and food lovers gather for one of the biggest culinary events in the world.
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Foodies, mark your calendars! Abu Dhabi is officially hosting the fifth edition of the Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants on February 3, 2026. The prestigious event celebrates the chefs, restaurants, and dining traditions shaping the region’s vibrant food scene — and it’s all happening right in the UAE’s capital.
The awards shine an international spotlight on the MENA dining scene, giving both rising stars and long-time favorites the global recognition they deserve.
What to Expect This Year
The 2026 program isn’t just about awards — it’s a full week of culinary action. Expect a series of events where food meets creativity, including:
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#50BestTalks: Industry experts and chefs share insights about their craft and the future of dining.
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Flavours of 50 Best: A special evening brunch experience with dishes from top global chefs.
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50 Best Signature Sessions: Unique one-off dinners featuring collaborations between regional and international culinary masters.
And the best part? Some events are open to the public, meaning food lovers can actually snag tickets and taste what the hype is all about.
A City Built for Food Lovers
Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a global food destination makes it the perfect host. The city’s mix of local talent, international influences, and innovative dining experiences continues to push boundaries in the region’s culinary scene.
Last year’s list (2025) featured restaurants from 11 cities, with Dubai’s Orfali Bros taking the crown for the second time as The Best Restaurant in the Middle East & North Africa. The upcoming edition promises another exciting lineup of restaurants and rising stars.