Taste of Dubai 2026: What to Eat, See, and Book for the Ultimate Foodie Weekend

Dubai’s foodie scene is about to get even more exciting as Taste of Dubai 2026 returns from February 6 to 8. Set against the vibrant backdrop of the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, the festival transforms the area into a bustling playground of flavors, live music, and chef-led experiences.

Part food festival, part music event, and part family day out, Taste of Dubai offers something for everyone—from dedicated foodies to families looking for a fun weekend.

What Is Taste of Dubai?

At its core, Taste of Dubai is a three-day celebration of food, beverages, and music. Visitors can sample tasting-sized dishes from some of the city’s most talked-about restaurants while enjoying live cooking demonstrations, workshops, and sunset DJ sets.

Unlike a typical dinner outing, the festival encourages grazing from one pop-up to the next, making it perfect for those who want to explore Dubai’s culinary scene without committing to a full meal.

The event draws an estimated 27,000 visitors over the weekend, making it one of the city’s largest foodie gatherings.

The Food: Must-Try Restaurants and Dishes

Taste of Dubai 2026 features 16 of Dubai’s top restaurants, each offering three to five tasting-sized dishes made exclusively for the festival. The goal is to try as many flavors as possible rather than sticking to one restaurant.

Some highlights this year include:

• The Beam by Nick Alvis

• Rhodes W1

• Franky’s Pizzeria

• Indilight Turkey

• The Guild

• Lento

• Ting Irie

• Nama Yoso

• Indya by Vineet

• Maya by Richard Sandoval

Expect a mix of global cuisines, Michelin-recognized dishes, and at least one exclusive festival creation per restaurant that you won’t find on the regular menu.

Celebrity Chefs, Cooking Schools, and Live Demos

Taste of Dubai isn’t just about eating—it’s also about learning and experiencing food. Throughout the weekend, celebrity chefs will host live demos, firepit sessions, and hands-on workshops, many of which are free with same-day registration.

Past chefs have included Marco Pierre White, Dani García, Gino D’Acampo, Alvin Leung, and Annabel Karmel, alongside regional talents and homegrown culinary stars.

Family-Friendly Festival Fun

While food takes the spotlight, music and activities create a lively festival atmosphere. Multiple stages host live bands, DJs, and acoustic sets, allowing visitors to choose between high-energy beats or relaxed tunes.

Families are especially well catered for, with kids’ cooking workshops, interactive play zones, arts and crafts corners, and balloon shows. Restaurants are also encouraged to provide family-friendly dishes, making it easy for everyone to join the fun.

Tickets, Vouchers, and How It Works

Entry tickets can be purchased in advance or at the gate, with early-bird discounts typically running until February 5. Ticket types include:

• Entry-only passes – pay for food and drinks on-site per dish

• Tickets with vouchers – include preloaded food and drink credits

• VIP passes – fast-track entry, lounge access, and bundled vouchers

Many workshops are free but operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Chef demos often fill up quickly, so early arrival is recommended.

Tips for Visitors

• Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking and standing a lot!

• Bring cash or card if you plan to purchase extra dishes

• Check the festival schedule for demos and performances you don’t want to miss

Whether you’re a foodie, family, or casual visitor, Taste of Dubai 2026 promises a weekend of memorable tastes, live entertainment, and hands-on culinary experiences.

Dates: February 6–8, 2026
Location: Dubai Media City Amphitheatre
Tickets & Info: Taste of Dubai Official Site