Taste of Dubai 2026 is set to make a grand return from February 6 to 8 at the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, promising food enthusiasts an exhilarating weekend filled with an expanded culinary roster, renowned celebrity chefs, and a wealth of entertainment options. This beloved food festival aims to attract approximately 25,000 visitors, making it one of the most anticipated events on the city’s social calendar.
Organized by MENA Live Events in collaboration with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, this year’s festival is expected to be bigger and better than ever before. Attendees can look forward to pop-up restaurants from sixteen acclaimed culinary establishments, each presenting a menu of three to five taster dishes that showcase the diverse flavors of Dubai’s gastronomic scene.
Taste of Dubai Returns Even Bigger
Among the early confirmed restaurants are notable names such as Akira Back, Demon Duck, Duck and Waffle, Leña, Lowe, and Khadak. Each venue will feature at least one vegetarian dish and a child-friendly option, enhancing the event’s inclusive nature. Attendees will have the flexibility to make purchases using credit cards or vouchers available in select ticket packages.
One of the festival’s highlights will be the impressive lineup of celebrity chefs who will be part of the Taste Cook School, Chefs Hub, and Fire Pit. Some of the first names announced include culinary icons like Gino D’Acampo, Matt Preston, Rachel Allen, Harry Heal, Jenny Morris, Fred Casagrande, along with talented pitmasters Andrew Dickens and Joseph Nesbitt Larking.
Workshops led by these culinary celebrities are included with general admission, and participants will be able to sign up on a first-come, first-served basis each day. The sessions will be hosted by Virgin Radio’s Priti Malik, adding an extra layer of excitement to the experience.
This year also sees a revamped VIP package available for attendees. The premium tier will feature fast-track entry, access to an exclusive lounge, live music performances, and a bundle of food and drink vouchers. Organizers predict that the VIP experience will be in high demand, catering to those looking to elevate their festival experience.
Throughout the weekend, live music will fill the air, with performances from bands, acoustic sessions, and radio hosts, including Big Rossi and Remix Rich. Several licensed outlets, sponsored by African and Eastern brands, will be available for visitors aged 21 and over.
Additionally, young guests can participate in Little Chefs workshops and enjoy various family-friendly activities throughout the event, with complimentary entry for children aged 12 and under. A dedicated shopping zone will feature artisan vendors and local brands, spotlighting a new section that celebrates Emirati businesses and showcases demonstrations of traditional dishes.
Early bird tickets for Taste of Dubai 2026 are now available on Platinumlist, starting at AED 60. Both taster and VIP packages are also offered, providing attendees a chance to indulge in a culinary adventure unlike any other.