Photo: GRAZIA

Dubai is no stranger it restaurant openings, with over in 100 in 2025 alone. The same energy is headed towards us in 2026, with already over 15 confirmed new restaurants opening their doors this year.

To make things easier for you (we’re always happy to help), GRAZIA highlights the hottest Dubai dining openings to have on your radar for 2026.

Gloria Osteria Dubai

Photo: @gloriaosteria.dxb Instagram

Big Mamma, the group behind cult-favourite Italian restaurants worldwide, made their Dubai debut with Gloria Osteria. Located at the Ritz-Carlton DIFC, Gloria Osteria is serving a special menu curated by Chef Pietro Zamuner, bringing Italian icons with a modern twist, including Cacio e Pepe, Fiore di Zucca e Ricotta, and Bufala Caprese. A space that takes you on a trip directly to Milano.

Barrafina

Photo: @barrafinadubai Instagram

From Spain’s love for sharing to London’s hustling food scene, Barrafina now lands in Dubai’s DIFC. Bringing traditional Spanish tapas with a modern flair to the heart of the city, Barrafina will be serving all of the tapas classics, including Patatas Bravas, Tortilla, and of course, Croquetas. Glammed up girl dinner, there is no better plan than to share some pinchos with your best friends on a Saturday night.

Nobu One&Only One Za’abeel

Photo: Supplied

Quick-starting the year with another exciting dining moment, Nobu is opening its third location in the city this January. Located on the 24th floor of the Link at One Za’abeel, the restaurant is bringing the same well-known and beloved cuisine, but with a fresh vibe. Nobu brings a new dimension to their experience with live performances, blending high-end dining with high-end entertainment.

Dots DIFC

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Blending art, dining and nightlife, DOTS is the new after-hours hotspot in Dubai. Coming from Vienna directly to DIFC, DOTS is blurring the line between creativity, connection and deliciousness under one roof. Expect exquisite asian-fusion dishes, top-notch mixologies and a party that doesn’t end. Living on their already attested motto, Eat. Drink. Dance. Repeat, this new Friday night hangout spot is one that’s definitely on GRAZIA’s to-try list.

LAVITA Beach House

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La bella vita vibes are coming straight from the Italian Riviera and are soon arriving at Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah shores. Located at the One, Dorchester Collection, Lavita Beach House comes from the team behind Chic Nonna, and that means we are in for some serious fun. With seaside views, live music, and energy that lasts from the first rays to the moonshine, it’s one we can’t wait to try.

The Maine beach house

Photo: @themainedxb Instagram

Recently opened, the Maine Beach House is where New England’s nautical meets Dubai’s glam. Although the Maine is no stranger to Dubai, with locations in Business Bay, Jumeirah Beach Residences and Studio City, this is their first seaside endeavour, located at Vista Mare on Palm Jumeirah. Their alfresco terrace and beach club loungers offer East Coast flavours perfect for a day in the sun with the whole family (and even your furry friends!)

Nammos

Photo: @nammos.dubai Instagram

An old favourite, completely renewed. After closing for renovation in 2025, Nammos reopened its doors in December, 2025, with the same vibrant energy, but an elevated menu, look and feel. A Dubai icon that has defined seaside dining in the city for years, we’re thrilled to be back to celeb-spotting while indulging in the highest-quality steaks this January.

Osaka Nikkei

Photo: @osterianikkei Instagram

The to-be gastronomical star of the newly opened Mandarin Oriental in Downtown Dubai, Osaka Nikkei, brings Peruvian and Japanese flavours to the city. Located on the 35th floor of the high-rise, Osaka Nikkei provides unparalleled views of Dubai’s skyline in addition to the internationally acclaimed Latin-Japanese fusion cuisine rooted in Nikkei traditions. What started in Lima, Peru, in 2002, has become a must-visit in Dubai in 2026.

Scott’s

Photo: @scottsmayfair Instagram

A London legend, Scott’s has set the benchmark for seafood dining experiences since 1851. Taking it worldwide, they are now bringing their fine-fish philosophy to Dubai. Opening in Gate Village, DIFC, you can expect nothing but their typical five-star experience, including the finest sourced fish, freshest oysters, and smooth caviar. Timeless glamour, classic dishes and that polished British seafood feel, has kept Scott’s on London’s hotspot dining map for decades, and we expect nothing else for Dubai.

Yù & Mì

Photo: Supplied

Another gastronomical hotspot opening its doors at the Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Yù & Mì brings a 1960s Hong Kong feel and true Asian flavour to the tower. The energy of Yù comes from the bar, where expertly crafted Asian-inspired cocktails and curated music await you. The energy of Mì, comes from the hidden restaurant for those who step further inside. Where Yù and Mì collide, you’ll find a night of impeccable flavours, electric vibes, and panoramic views.

ZEA

Photo: Supplied

Opening at the Emirates Towers this January, ZEA brings a bold and modern Mediterranean concept to DIFC. Taking inspiration from the ancient Mediterranean word, Zea, meaning ‘grain’ and ‘wheat’. The restaurant’s concept is built on the symbol of life and abundance, which Zea has provided for millions for centuries. Still today, Zea makes up many of our favourite dishes, and specifically ones we can’t wait to experience at ZEA.