After Michelin, Gault&Millau Launches Yellow Guide In Saudi Arabia & Here’s All About It

Big things are cooking in Saudi Arabia’s food scene. First came the announcement that the prestigious MICHELIN Guide was finally heading to the Kingdom. Now, another heavyweight has joined the club in Saudi Arabia: the Yellow Guide by Gault&Millau. Foodies, sharpen your knives (and maybe your Instagram filters). This is serious culinary business.

Saudi Arabia Welcomes Gault&Millau’s Yellow Guide In 2026

 

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The reveal dropped during the Cultural Investment Conference in Riyadh. The move comes through a strategic partnership between the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission, Gault&Millau, and Hospitality Services Middle East (HSME). If you’re already counting down, the guide is set to arrive in January 2026—and yes, you’ll be seeing it on plenty of coffee tables from Riyadh to Jeddah.

What’s In The Yellow Guide?

For anyone new to the name, Gault&Millau isn’t some trendy newcomer. The guide has a legacy stretching over 50 years and has planted its flag across 20 countries, building a network of over 400 professional inspectors and listing more than 14,000 restaurants worldwide. Not exactly a small operation.

But what’s in store for Saudi Arabia? Three things, mainly. First, a hefty 350-page print guide highlighting the Kingdom’s finest chefs, restaurants, and dining experiences in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, AlUla, and Abha. That’s right, this isn’t just about the capital. Second, a digital platform that slots into Gault&Millau’s global network, meaning you’ll get access on your phone or laptop whenever the craving for inspiration strikes. And finally, an annual gala event to celebrate the best of Saudi’s culinary scene. Think chefs, awards, maybe even a few tears of joy on stage, because food really is that emotional.

A Little Backstory

Let’s rewind. The Yellow Guide was founded in 1969 by two journalists, Henri Gault and Christian Millau. Their mission? To shine a spotlight on outstanding restaurants, artisans, and speciality shops. More than half a century later, their vision is still going strong. In practice, it’s one of the most respected culinary benchmarks out there, especially for those who live and breathe food.

Also Read:Gordon Ramsay To Open A Culinary Academy In Riyadh, So Get Ready To Level Up Your Cooking Skills 

Why It Matters For Saudi

To be fair, Saudi Arabia’s restaurant scene has been quietly (and sometimes not-so-quietly) levelling up in recent years. Big-name chefs have set up kitchens, homegrown talent has been rising, and diners have been spoiled for choice between traditional gems and high-concept dining spots.

Having the MICHELIN Guide and now Gault&Millau’s Yellow Guide means international recognition has officially arrived. It’s not just about bragging rights (though let’s be honest, that doesn’t hurt). It also puts Saudi Arabia on the global culinary map in a way that invites food travellers, critics, and investors. Come on, we all know food tourism is big business.

And personally? It feels like the right time. The scene has matured, diners are more adventurous, and chefs are pushing boundaries. Recognition was bound to come sooner or later.

Cover Image Courtesy: Gault&Millau/Website