Michelin Debuts Saudi Arabia Guide, Honors 51 Restaurants and Three Award Winners
Michelin launches inaugural MICHELIN Guide Saudi Arabia 2026 Restaurant Celebration, recognizing 51 restaurants—11 Bib Gourmand and 40 Selected—and presenting three special awards to Elia Kaady, Il Baretto, and Yaza. The expansion into Saudi Arabia highlights Michelin's brand extension and potential to boost guide subscription revenues in the Middle East.
1. Michelin Launches Saudi Arabia Guide 2026
Michelin held its inaugural Saudi Arabia Restaurant Celebration for the MICHELIN Guide 2026, recognizing 51 establishments across the kingdom. The guide included 11 Bib Gourmand distinctions and 40 Selected listings, marking the first local ceremony in Riyadh.
2. Special Awards Recognize Culinary Excellence
Three special awards were presented: the Young Chef Award went to Elia Kaady of Maiz, the Exceptional Mocktail Award to Il Baretto's bar manager Santiago Latorre, and the Service Excellence Award to Yaza under chef-owner Hakim Bagabas, showcasing standout talent in Saudi's dining scene.
3. Brand Expansion and Revenue Potential
By expanding its guide into Saudi Arabia, Michelin aims to strengthen its brand presence in the Middle East and tap into growing demand for premium culinary recommendations, potentially increasing digital and print subscription revenue streams for MGDDY.