Dubai has once again proven why it is one of the most exciting cities in the world. In the latest 2026 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Destinations awards by Tripadvisor, Dubai has been ranked as the world’s second-best food destination. This global recognition places Dubai just behind London and ahead of iconic food capitals such as Rome, Hong Kong, and Paris.
The ranking is based entirely on the quality and quantity of traveler reviews submitted on Tripadvisor over the past 12 months. This makes the recognition especially meaningful, as it reflects real dining experiences shared by millions of global travelers. Dubai’s rise to the second spot highlights how its food scene has evolved into a powerful attraction for tourists from every corner of the world.
Dubai’s food culture is unique because it blends deep-rooted Middle Eastern traditions with global influences. From Emirati dishes passed down through generations to modern creations inspired by international flavors, the city offers something for every palate. This balance of heritage and innovation has played a major role in helping Dubai stand out on the global food map.
Tripadvisor 2026 Best Food Destinations Rankings
| Rank | City | Country |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | London | United Kingdom |
| 2 | Dubai | United Arab Emirates |
| 3 | Rome | Italy |
| 4 | Hong Kong | China (SAR) |
| 5 | Paris | France |
| 6 | Majorca | Spain |
| 7 | Doha | Qatar |
| 8 | Crete | Greece |
| 9 | Bangkok | Thailand |
| 10 | Marrakech | Morocco |
According to Tripadvisor’s 2026 rankings, London secured the top position as the world’s best food destination. Dubai made a strong debut at number two, followed by Rome in third place, Hong Kong in fourth, and Paris in fifth. Other cities in the top ten include Majorca, Doha, Crete, Bangkok, and Marrakech. The list clearly shows a shift in global food tourism, with travelers increasingly seeking diverse and immersive dining experiences rather than just traditional fine dining hubs.
Why Dubai Ranked Second Best Food Destination Globally
| Evaluation Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Review Quality | High ratings from verified global travelers |
| Review Volume | Strong volume of reviews over a 12-month period |
| Cuisine Variety | Middle Eastern, Asian, European, and fusion cuisines |
| Dining Experience | Mix of traditional, luxury, casual, and street food |
| Food Innovation | Social media-driven and experiential dining concepts |
| Culinary Events | International food festivals and chef showcases |
Food tourism has become a major driver of travel decisions. Recent data shows that travelers now spend nearly 25 percent of their total travel budget on food and dining experiences. Dubai has successfully tapped into this trend by offering a wide range of culinary options, from affordable street food to luxury Michelin-level restaurants. The city’s ability to cater to different budgets without compromising on quality has made it especially attractive to modern travelers.
Dubai Food Tourism Data Snapshot
| Metric | Data |
|---|---|
| Global Food Destination Rank | 2 |
| Ranking Year | 2026 |
| Ranking Authority | Tripadvisor |
| Share of Travel Budget Spent on Food | Approximately 25% |
| Total Restaurants Reviewed | 11,000+ |
| Key Tourist Segment | International and millennial travelers |
One of the key reasons behind Dubai’s high ranking is its homegrown dining scene. Local chefs are increasingly using regional ingredients and traditional cooking methods while presenting them in contemporary and creative ways. These restaurants are not only popular with tourists but also loved by residents, adding authenticity and consistency to the dining experience.
At the same time, Dubai has embraced the power of social media-driven food trends. Many restaurants in the city have gone viral for their unique concepts, presentation, and flavors. Younger travelers, in particular, are drawn to experiential dining where food is not just eaten but shared, photographed, and remembered. This combination of taste and experience has helped Dubai build a strong emotional connection with food lovers worldwide.
Food festivals and culinary events also play a big role in strengthening Dubai’s global food image. Events like Taste of Dubai 2026 bring together top chefs, popular restaurants, and food enthusiasts on one platform. Live cooking demonstrations, tasting sessions, and interactive workshops allow visitors to engage directly with the city’s culinary talent. These events not only boost tourism but also reinforce Dubai’s position as a serious global food destination.
Top-Rated Restaurants in Dubai (Based on Tripadvisor Reviews)
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine Type | Popular For |
|---|---|---|
| Naughty Pizza Dubai | Italian | Artisan pizzas, casual dining |
| Positano Restaurant | Italian | Authentic coastal Italian dishes |
| Cucina The Palm | Italian | Fine dining experience |
| Monkey Bar | International | Rooftop views and cocktails |
| Hurricane’s Grill Dubai Mall | Steakhouse | Grilled meats and family dining |
| Fish Hut Restaurant | Seafood | Fresh seafood and value |
| Karachi Grill | Indian | Barbecue and traditional flavors |
Tripadvisor has highlighted several Dubai restaurants that have consistently received excellent reviews from diners. Popular names include Naughty Pizza Dubai, Positano Restaurant, Cucina The Palm, Monkey Bar, and Hurricane’s Grill at Dubai Mall. These restaurants have been praised for food quality, service, ambiance, and overall dining experience.
Beyond these well-known spots, Dubai’s food scene is supported by thousands of smaller eateries that reflect the city’s multicultural population. Seafood lovers often recommend Fish Hut Restaurant for its freshness and value, while fans of Indian cuisine frequently praise Karachi Grill for its flavorful barbecue dishes. With more than 11,000 restaurants reviewed on Tripadvisor, Dubai offers one of the most diverse dining landscapes in the world.
What truly sets Dubai apart is consistency. Whether a visitor chooses a luxury restaurant in a five-star hotel or a modest café in an old neighborhood, the standards of hygiene, service, and taste remain high. This reliability builds trust among travelers and encourages repeat visits, which is a key factor considered in Tripadvisor’s rankings.
Also Read | Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood Wins Travelers’ Choice Award
Dubai’s second-place ranking in the 2026 food destination list is more than just an award. It reflects years of investment in hospitality, talent, and cultural exchange. The city has successfully positioned food as a central part of its tourism identity, alongside shopping, architecture, and entertainment.
As global travel continues to recover and evolve, Dubai’s food scene is expected to grow even stronger. With new restaurants opening regularly, rising local talent, and increasing global attention, the city is well on its way to challenging the top spot in the years ahead. For food lovers planning their next trip, Dubai has firmly established itself as a destination where every meal can become a memorable experience.