Dubai Ranks 2nd as World’s Top Foodie Destination in 2026

  • Publish date: since 20 hour Reading time: 1 min read

Tripadvisor ranks Dubai second globally, thanks to its sizzling culinary scene and homegrown talent.

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Move over, mere sightseeing—food is the new passport. Dubai has officially cemented itself as a must-visit culinary hotspot, snagging second place in Tripadvisor’s Traveller’s Choice Awards 2026 for top food destinations.

It’s not just about the Michelin stars anymore. Dubai’s food scene has evolved into a playground for homegrown chefs, local ingredients, and bold, innovative flavors that keep tourists coming back for more.

Why Food Tourism Is Booming

Food isn’t just fuel—it’s the reason people travel. Precedence Research predicts food tourism will grow 20% year-on-year through 2030. On average, travelers spend 25% of their holiday budget on food, and more than half of dedicated “gastronauts” book restaurants before booking flights.

Social media also plays a role. Millennials are chasing the next viral bite, from extravagant cheese pulls to creative fusion dishes, and Dubai is delivering.

Who Else Made the Top 10?

While Dubai shined in silver, London took the crown, followed by Rome in third. Other favorites included:

  • Hong Kong – 4th

  • Paris – 5th

  • Majorca – 6th

  • Doha – 7th

  • Crete – 8th

  • Bangkok – 9th

  • Marrakech – 10th

With this kind of global recognition, Dubai is no longer just a city of skyscrapers—it’s a city of flavors.