Michelin Guide Dubai 2026: New Winners Emerge While Temporarily Closed Restaurants Retain Stars

Dubai's latest Michelin stars have been revealed, with two restaurants joining the prestigious list and another promoted to two stars, even as some of the city's award-winning dining rooms remain temporarily closed.

The Michelin Guide Dubai 2026 was unveiled at a ceremony at Atlantis The Royal on Tuesday night, with 20 restaurants receiving at least one star. FZN by Bjorn Frantzen and Tresind Studio remain at the top of Dubai's dining scene, retaining the three stars they received last year.

Orfali Bros was one of the biggest winners of the night, promoted from one to two stars. Meanwhile, Birch and Kigo entered the guide with one star each.

The latest awards come after a challenging period for Dubai's restaurant industry, with several high-profile venues temporarily pausing operations. Among the restaurants retaining Michelin stars for 2026 are Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, Ossiano, and Smoked Room, which are currently temporarily closed.

Michelin has acknowledged the unusual situation after food writer Samantha Wood questioned why at least 10 restaurants were included despite currently being closed. In a statement, Michelin said it was fully aware of the closures and that inspectors will re-evaluate the restaurants once they reopen.

Beyond the starred restaurants, the 2026 guide includes 122 establishments representing 38 types of cuisine, with 19 new additions across the guide.