The year 2025 has seen some really fantastic restaurants opening across the GCC. From renowned chains to homegrown names, the dining scene in the region has seen quite a few new entrants that are worth checking out. To ensure you don’t miss out on this, we have rounded up some of the most popular restaurants that launched in 2025, which have created a buzz online!
Newest Restaurant Launches Of 2025
1. Rowley’s
This was a new addition to the dining options in DIFS. With an impressive menu, one can expect steak and frites. These, with the breathtaking view of the Burj Khalifa, sound like the perfect way to savour a delicious meal. With a versatile and elegant setting, these are perfectly suited for any occasion! The perfect place for an amazing evening, the sophisticated ambience is something you can’t miss.
Where: Towers, Level P3, Central Park, Trade Centre, DIFC, Dubai, UAE
When: Monday to Thursday from 12 pm to 11 pm, Friday to Saturday from 12 pm to 12 am and Sunday from 1 pm to 11 pm
Cost for two: AED400 (approx)
2. Isabel Mayfair
With just the right touch, Isabel Mayfair offers a touch of this new addition to Riyadh that you wouldn’t want to miss. Open in the As Sulimaniyah district, the Juan Santa Cruz has created the restaurant’s opulent design and menu. Moreover, patrons will get to indulge in signature dishes like Prawn Crudo, Veal Ragù Gnocchi, and the Blackened Chicken.
Where: King Muhammad V, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh 12223, Saudi Arabia
3. SUSHISAMBA
The newest outlet opened in Abu Dhabi, and is something you can’t miss. With the restaurant combining Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian flavours together, this restaurant offers fantastic Corniche views. With the menu featuring droolworthy nibbles, such as sushi, anticuchos, and ceviches, these yummies are worth savouring.
Where: Podium 1 Conrad, Etihad Towers, 1st St, Al Bateen, W32, Abu Dhabi
When: Sunday to Wednesday from 6 pm to 1 am and Thursday to Saturday from 6 pm to 2 am
4. L’Occitane Cafe
This is also a restaurant in Saudi Arabia, which officially opened in Riyadh in June. And it offers a taste of Provence in the beautiful ambience. With the restaurant drawing inspiration from the South of France, you will find a selection of hearty dishes that you just can’t miss. With the signature yellow-and-blue design and soft lighting, this space has an amazing vibe, which you can’t miss.
Where: Amr Aldamri St, Al Safarat, Riyadh 12512, Saudi Arabia
When: Saturday to Wednesday from 9 am to 10:30 pm, Thursday to Friday from 9 am to 11:30 pm
5. Dolce & Gabbana Cafe
Dolce&Gabbana Café has also finally arrived in Saudi Arabia. This is a newly designed DG Caffè that features a golden mosaic ceiling inspired by desert tents. It’s worth mentioning that it initially opened in Portofino, Italy. Offering a fusion of Italian coffee and Arabian tea, this uniquely sophisticated place is something you must check out.
Where: Al Faisaliyah, PHPF+P6R, Riyadh 13711, Saudi Arabia
When: 1 pm to 1 am
6. Viceroy’s Table
If you wish to savour Indian dishes in an elegant setting, then you just can’t miss out on Viceroy’s Table. Yes, now open in Dubai, the restaurant combines classic Indian flavours with modern culinary craft. Moreover, these are exceptionally paired with seasonal British ingredients. With the restaurant offering a refined yet relaxed dining experience, you will want to visit this establishment.
Where: Hyatt Place Hotel, Al Mina St, Al Mina, Dubai, UAE
When: 12 pm to 3:30 pm, 6 pm to 2 am
Also Read: Saudi Arabia’s Ithra Food Festival 2025 Brings Open-Air Dining, Live Cooking And Cultural Arts
7. Novikov
Bringing the world-renowned Novikov London dining experience to Abu Dhabi, the restaurant, which opened in 202,5 should be on the must-visit list for everybody. Featuring a refined Italian-Mediterranean menu, this has been crafted by Executive Chef Marco Lubian. You will find toothsome options like King Crab Salad and Pizza Tartufo. Moreover, the establishment offers a seamless blend of upscale dining and vibrant nightlife!
Where: The Galleria Mall, Abu Dhabi Global Market, First St, Al Maryah Island, MI1, Abu Dhabi, UAE
When: Monday to Friday from 12 pm to 1 am and Saturday to Sunday from 12 pm to 2 am
8. Marcella
Bringing the rich flavours of Spain and Portugal to Abu Dhabi, Marcella is worth checking out. With the restaurant featuring a menu guided by chef-owner Mario Loi of Mika, this is an elegant bistro. It highlights the signature wood-fired Parrilla Grill. As you get to savour charred seafood, the foodie in your soul will be satiated! The warm hospitality and a curated drink menu are something that will make you come back for more.
Where: Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE
When: Monday to Thursday from 12 pm to 12 am and Friday to Saturday from 12 pm to 1 am
Also Read: Hatta Honey Festival Returns With Local Flavours, Family Fun And Winter Cheer
9. YUBI Handroll Bar
A new establishment by Chef Reif Othman, YUBI offers a vibrant Japanese street-style handroll bar. At this eatery, you can find flavour-packed bites. Moreover, the highlights here include Hamachi with Yuzu Kosho, Hotate with garlic confit and tuna crisp, Kagoshima Wagyu with Shrimp Tempura, and Spicy Tuna with Red Yuzu Kosho. With a selection of deliciously crafted dishes, the restaurant’s offerings are something you can’t miss out on!
Where: One Central – The Offices 5 – Dubai
When: 12 pm to 1 am
10. Pickl
A popular burger brand in the UAE, Pickl has finally made its much-awaited debut in Riyadh. This happened in two destinations and is famous for its bold, messy burgers and punchy flavours. You will want to savour their Classic Cheeseburgers and Fiery Chicken Sandos, which look absolutely mouth-watering.
Where: Cenomi Al Nakheel Mall and U-Walk, Riyadh- Saudi Arabia
When: Saturday to Thursday from 12 pm to 1 am and Friday from 1 pm to 1 am
With this list laid out for you, when do you plan to check out these restaurants?
Cover Image Courtesy: Instagram/loccitanecafe & pickl.mena