The Gulf’s dining scene has transformed dramatically over the past decade, evolving from a handful of hotel restaurants into one of the most exciting culinary regions in the world. For food-focused travellers, a well-planned Middle East itinerary can be as much about the table as the landmarks.
Dubai: The Region’s Culinary Capital
Dubai now holds one of the largest concentrations of Michelin-starred and internationally recognised restaurants outside Europe, with outposts from globally renowned chefs sitting alongside excellent independent restaurants serving Emirati, Lebanese, Indian and Iranian cuisine, a reflection of the city’s diverse population.
Doha’s Rising Scene
Qatar has invested heavily in its dining landscape since hosting the FIFA World Cup, with West Bay and Katara Cultural Village now home to a fast-growing roster of high-end restaurants alongside more traditional Qatari cuisine, best sampled at Souq Waqif.
Traditional Gulf Cuisine Worth Seeking Out
- Machboos: A spiced rice dish with meat or seafood, found in various forms across the Gulf
- Kunafa: A sweet, cheese-filled pastry dessert popular across the Levant and Gulf
- Kibbeh: Spiced meat and bulgur, a Levantine staple found throughout Jordanian and Lebanese-influenced menus
- Fresh Gulf seafood: Particularly hammour and prawns, grilled simply and served with rice
Our Approach to Food-Focused Itineraries
For clients who prioritise dining, we build in private table reservations at in-demand restaurants, food-focused souq tours with local guides, and, where available, private chef experiences within desert camps or villas, ensuring the food is as considered as the rest of the itinerary.
Taste Your Way Through the Gulf
Tell us how central dining is to your ideal trip, and our specialists will build reservations and culinary experiences directly into your itinerary. Get in touch to start planning.