Gault&Millau launches Yellow Guide in Saudi Arabia

Gault&Millau announces its official arrival in Saudi Arabia thanks to a strategic partnership with the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission, and with the support of Hospitality Services Middle East (HSME). This launch marks a historic step: for the first time, the Yellow Guide will be published in the Kingdom, setting a new benchmark for culinary excellence and accompanying the rapid development of the Saudi gastronomic and hotel sector.

A structuring project for Saudi gastronomy

With a presence in 20 countries and over 50 years of expertise, Gault&Millau relies on a network of over 400 inspectors and 14,000 restaurants worldwide. The Saudi edition, expected in January 2026, will highlight five major cities - Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, AlUla and Abha - revealing the wealth of local traditions, regional flavors and culinary innovations.

" We are honored to bring Gault&Millau to Saudi Arabia in partnership with the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission and the support of HSME. This project reflects our mission to celebrate culinary excellence around the world, while showcasing the chefs, restaurants and hospitality professionals who are shaping the Kingdom's gastronomic future," said Patrick Hayoun, CEO of Gault&Millau France and International.

For her part, Mayada Badr, Director General of the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission, emphasized: " The launch of Gault&Millau Saudi Arabia illustrates our ongoing efforts to strengthen the Kingdom's culinary sector and create opportunities for our local talent. By sharing the diversity of our culinary traditions with the world, we are building a vibrant gastronomic future for Saudi Arabia and the region. "

Three founding pillars

The Gault&Millau Saudi Arabia project is built around three key components:

• A 350-page printed guide, including restaurant reviews, chef portraits, emblematic recipes and ratings from 1 to 5 toques.
• A digital platform integrated into the international Gault&Millau ecosystem, offering local establishments enhanced global visibility.
• An annual gala, the first edition of which will be held in January 2026, bringing together chefs, journalists, influencers and partners, with an awards ceremony and trophies to celebrate Saudi culinary talent.

" Enhancing the value of the gastronomy and hospitality sectors is at the heart of our mission. This partnership with Gault&Millau and the CAC marks an exciting new chapter. through the Yellow Guide, we will be highlighting the chefs, restaurants and traditions that make Saudi Arabia unique," said Joumana Dammous-Salame, Managing Director of HSME.