Hosted in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the ceremony culminated in the announcement of the region’s No.1 restaurant, Khufu’s.
Founded on a deep respect for Egyptian culinary heritage, Khufu’s celebrates the flavors and traditions of the Nile Valley through a modern lens. Its rise to the No.1 position is attributed to its elegant reinterpretation of regional dishes, exceptional ingredient sourcing and refined yet soulful storytelling. Nestled in the shadow of the Pyramids, the restaurant offers a dining experience that blends contemporary Egyptian gastronomy with one of the world’s most iconic settings. Khufu’s brings a modern Egyptian culinary identity that resonates both locally and globally.
Three Dubai-based restaurants follow closely with Kinoya (No.2), Trèsind Studio (No.3) and Orfali Bros (No.4), which previously held the No.1 spot for three consecutive years. Beirut’s Beihouse (No.5) rounds out the top five, reaffirming Lebanon’s continued strength in the region’s dining scene.
The United Arab Emirates once again leads in the region, securing 25 positions on the list. Dubai stands out with prominent placements including Sufret Maryam (No.7), Jun’s (No.8), Manāo (No.9), Moonrise (No.10) and Kokoro (No.15). Restaurants in Abu Dhabi also feature prominently with Marmellata Bakery (No.16), Niri (No.38), 3 Fils Abu Dhabi (No.42) – a new entry – and LPM Abu Dhabi (No.47), underscoring the capital’s growing gastronomic appeal.
Egypt celebrates a landmark achievement this year, claiming the No.1 position with Khufu’s while also earning additional recognition across the list. Reif Kushiyaki Cairo (No.20), a major climber, joins favorites such as Kazoku (No.25), Zooba (Zamalek) (No.32) and Sachi Cairo (No.37), signaling Egypt’s continued rise as a culinary destination.
Saudi Arabia also continues its upward trajectory with a strong restaurant presence on the list. Kuuru (No.6) is named The Best Restaurant in Saudi Arabia 2026, while Marble (No.12) and Myazu (No.45) affirm their expanding influence on the regional dining landscape. Lebanon’s resilience and celebrated culinary heritage shine through with Beihouse (No.5), Em Sherif (No.13) and Buco (No.39), reinforcing Beirut’s role as a defining voice in Levantine cuisine.
Morocco delivers another standout year, with Marrakech making a notable impact through La Grande Table Marocaine (No.19), also the winner of the Art of Hospitality Award 2026. The city is further represented by Le Petit Cornichon (No.21), Sesamo (No.24), +61 (No.31) and Farmers (No.49), winner of the Sustainable Restaurant Award, sponsored by illy, showcasing the breadth and creativity of Moroccan gastronomy. Restaurants in Jordan feature prominently with Shams El Balad (No.26), Alee (No.28) and Dara Dining by Sara Aqel (No.30), all securing places on the list, each reflecting Amman’s growing culinary identity.
The list is rounded out by notable new entries from Kuwait, Bahrain, Tunisia and Qatar, including Cantina (No.18) and Matbakhi (No.50) in Kuwait City, Lyra (No.48) in Manama, Le Golfe (No.46) in La Marsa and Idam (No.44) in Doha, collectively highlighting the diversity of culinary expression across the wider region.
Beihouse makes a remarkable debut this year at No.5, earning the Highest New Entry Award. The restaurant has quickly distinguished itself through its refined Levantine expression, meticulous craftsmanship and contemporary interpretation of Beirut’s culinary heritage. Its menu highlights regional flavors with modern clarity, resonating deeply with diners and positioning Beihouse as one of the most compelling new additions to the list.
Reif Kushiyaki Cairo ascends an extraordinary 27 places to reach No.20, earning the Highest Climber Award. This achievement reflects the restaurant’s expanding influence and its dynamic reinterpretation of Japanese street-style dining. Chef Reif Othman’s signature techniques are harmonized with Cairo’s local spirit, resulting in a dining experience that feels both globally attuned and distinctly rooted in its setting.
Sara Aqel is honored with the MENA’s Best Female Chef Award, sponsored by Elle & Vire Professionnel, for her leadership at Dara Dining by Sara Aqel in Amman.
This year’s edition also highlights three special award winners, which were announced in the lead up to MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026. The Champions of Change Award recognized Muna Haddad, founder of Baraka Destinations, for her pioneering, community-driven approach to hospitality and tourism in Jordan. The Art of Hospitality Award was awarded to La Grande Table Marocaine at Royal Mansour Marrakech, acknowledging its exceptional service and dedication to Moroccan fine-dining excellence. Meanwhile, the One To Watch Award was presented to Middle Child in Dubai, celebrated for its warm, neighborhood spirit and recognized for its potential to break into future lists of MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants.
