Dubai Michelin stars have sparked questions after closed restaurants retained recognition in the 2026 guide, raising concerns about Michelin’s assessment process.
DUBAI: Dubai’s prestigious dining industry is facing questions after several restaurants that are currently closed retained their Michelin stars or other distinctions in the 2026 Michelin Guide.
The Dubai Michelin stars controversy has attracted attention from food critics and industry observers, who are questioning how restaurants that are not currently serving customers can maintain their prestigious recognition.
According to an October 8 report by Semafor, 11 restaurants that have temporarily or permanently closed amid regional disruption were included in this year’s Michelin selection. Not all held stars; some received other Michelin distinctions.
Why are closed Dubai restaurants retaining Michelin stars?
The Michelin Guide evaluates restaurants according to the quality of their cooking, considering factors such as ingredients, technique, flavour combinations, consistency and the chef’s personality expressed through food.
However, the inclusion of closed establishments has raised questions about how these assessments apply when restaurants are no longer welcoming diners.
Michelin acknowledged that it was aware of closures linked to current circumstances and indicated that affected restaurants would be reassessed when they reopen.
The explanation has not entirely settled concerns among industry commentators.
Which Michelin-starred Dubai restaurants are affected?
Several prominent restaurants have retained their previous distinctions despite temporary closures.
Among them are Ossiano and Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, both located at Atlantis properties in Dubai.
Atlantis confirmed on October 7 that Ossiano, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal and Hakkasan Dubai each retained one Michelin star in the 2026 selection.
These establishments have established international reputations for fine dining, attracting residents and tourists seeking exclusive culinary experiences.
Their continued recognition demonstrates the distinction between a restaurant’s previously assessed culinary achievements and its present operating status.
What does the 2026 Michelin Guide reveal?
Despite the discussion surrounding closed venues, the latest Dubai Michelin Guide also celebrates considerable achievements across the city’s restaurant industry.
The fifth edition features 122 restaurants representing 38 different cuisines.
Two restaurants, FZN by Björn Frantzén and Trèsind Studio, retained their three-star status.
Orfali Bros earned a promotion to two Michelin stars, while KIGO and Birch received their first stars.
The selection also includes 19 new additions, reflecting Dubai’s expanding international culinary profile.
What does this mean for diners?
For customers, Dubai Michelin stars remain a recognised indicator of culinary quality, but the latest controversy highlights the importance of checking whether a restaurant is currently operating.
A Michelin listing does not necessarily guarantee that reservations are available.
Diners planning special occasions or culinary holidays should confirm operating status directly with restaurants before making arrangements.
Michelin’s approach also raises a wider question about how international restaurant guides should recognise establishments experiencing exceptional interruptions.
Impact to expect
The discussion could encourage greater transparency around restaurant operating status within international dining guides. For Dubai’s hospitality industry, clearer information may help preserve customer confidence while recognising established culinary achievements during periods of disruption.
