Abu Dhabi Culinary Investment Fund: A Gateway for World-Class Culinary Brands to Enter the Emirate

Abu Dhabi has recently launched a new initiative to attract world-class culinary brands to the emirate, thereby raising the standard of the city’s culinary scene. The Abu Dhabi Culinary Investment Fund (ADCIF) aims to incentivize top chefs, restaurants, and culinary educational institutions to enter the market and make Abu Dhabi their new home by co-investing with local asset partners.

According to H.E. Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism, DCT Abu Dhabi, this initiative is part of the city’s ongoing commitment to creating new dining experiences and elevating the culinary scene. He stated there is no better time or place to bring the best chefs, restaurants, and hotel brands to the capital. This fund, combined with the Culinary School, will ensure that Abu Dhabi appeals to even more visitors worldwide.

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To be eligible for the fund, applicants must be recognized by leading awards committees and global culinary guides and have a multi-regional presence. They should offer a premium casual, lifestyle, or fine dining experience without having an existing presence in the region. They would be making their debut in Abu Dhabi. They would be granted one year of exclusivity to the emirate.

Abu Dhabi’s culinary scene has received international attention recently, with the MICHELIN Guide launching its first-ever Abu Dhabi edition, featuring 42 restaurants across the emirate. Three establishments were awarded one MICHELIN Star, while four received a Bib Gourmand. Additionally, the Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023 recently ranked Abu Dhabi after a successful 2022 event, further solidifying the city’s reputation as a global culinary destination.

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