In Dubai, Michelin is recognizing restaurants… that are closed!
In Dubai, some stars shine behind closed doors. According to a Sunday Times investigation, sixteen of the 122 restaurants in the Michelin 2026 selection are reportedly temporarily or permanently closed. Among them, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal and Ossiano—which have been closed since April—retain their stars. Revolver, Ken by Kamatsuda, and Maison Dali are even set to make their debut in the guide despite having ceased operations.
Update
Beyond the ratings themselves, it is the updating of this digital selection that has raised concerns among the professionals surveyed. Several are calling for greater transparency and better recognition of establishments that are still in operation. Michelin states that it is in contact with the restaurants in question and plans to re-evaluate them upon their reopening. The guide also asserts that its partnership with tourism authorities does not influence either the inspections or the awards.
