**“I believe Trèsind Studio can only be Trèsind Studio in Dubai. It cannot be the same in any other city or country in the world,”** Chef Himanshu Saini declared at the MICHELIN Guide Ceremony Dubai 2025. His heartfelt words resonated with the audience as he expressed gratitude for a city that has nurtured dreams and careers. Celebrating this milestone, he said, *“This is a win for team India.”*
Chef Saini’s journey began over 15 years ago when he moved to Dubai, joining more than two million fellow Indian expatriates. Today, he stands as the first chef to earn Three MICHELIN Stars for an Indian restaurant, making history for both Indian cuisine and the vibrant city of Dubai.
This achievement highlights the influence of one of Dubai’s largest expat communities and its cultural contributions. The Indian community’s roots in Dubai date back to the 19th century, originally establishing themselves in what was a prominent maritime trading hub. Over the years, this community has flourished, injecting richness into Dubai’s fabric through its customs, traditions, and culinary delights.
SIMILAR: Inside the world’s first ever Three MICHELIN Star Indian restaurant
A purely vegetarian dish featuring spiced jackfruit and strands of idiyappam (Southern Indian rice noodle) is delicately presented at One-MICHELIN-Star avatāra. Image credit: Afrin/avatāra
Flavorful Indian Fare
Renowned for its fragrant spices and bold flavors, Indian cuisine serves as a beautiful tapestry of diverse tastes and textures. Dubai boasts 14 Indian restaurants recognized by The MICHELIN Guide, catering to everyone from casual diners to fine dining enthusiasts. Venues like MICHELIN-selected Bombay Bungalow and Carnival by Trèsind present classic Indian dishes with modern twists, while Bib Gourmand establishments like Khadak revisit beloved Indian street food favorites.
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Dubai is now home to three MICHELIN-Starred Indian restaurants, with Trèsind Studio achieving the first accolade of its kind. Located in Palm Jumeirah’s St. Regis Gardens, this fine-dining establishment offers an exquisite 18-course tasting menu, celebrating regional diversity across India through elegantly presented dishes. Meanwhile, One-MICHELIN-Star avatāra specializes in a vegetarian tasting menu crafted without garlic or onion. One-MICHELIN-Star Jamavar showcases more classical interpretations of signature Indian dishes, reflecting the culinary craftsmanship of its kitchen.
DISCOVER MORE: Where to Eat MICHELIN-Starred Indian Cuisine in London, Dubai and Beyond
Contemporary touches of Indian decor are found across the rooms and suites at Taj Dubai. Image credit: Taj Dubai
Regal Indian Hospitality
The opulent Indian hotel chains Taj and Oberoi bring a touch of royal elegance to Dubai. Located in heart of Downtown Dubai, the Taj Dubai stands out, offering breathtaking views of the Burj Khalifa. The hotel is adorned with contemporary interpretations of classical Indian design, while the J Wellness Circle spa provides a variety of Ayurvedic-inspired treatments, aligning luxury with holistic wellness.
A mesmerizing fireworks show can be enjoyed in Dubai Festival City. Image credit: hasan zaidi/iStock
Celebrating Light and Harvests
As the year progresses, Indian festivals amplify Dubai’s cultural heartbeat. Onam Sadhya, the vibrant South Indian harvest festival, is celebrated with grand feasts featuring up to 28 vegetarian dishes served on banana leaves. This tradition resonates throughout the city, particularly in homes and various Indian restaurants. Notable displays include the pookalam, intricate floral arrangements seen at BurJuman mall, alongside competitions and performances that reflect the festival’s spirit.
At Trèsind Studio, the Sadya Celebration of Flavors course pays homage to Onam, with the dish constructed table-side by team members, engaging guests in a culinary ritual. Similarly, Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, brightens the city in October or November. Celebrations include dazzling fireworks, vibrant decorations along buildings, and community performances that light up areas such as Bur Dubai and Al Seef, culminating in unforgettable nights for residents and visitors alike.
Over 25,000 cricket fans gather to watch one of many competitions at the Dubai International Stadium. Image credit: Dubai Sports City
Cricket Craze
Though cricket isn’t officially recognized as India’s national sport, it undeniably holds a cherished place in the hearts of Indians, particularly in Dubai. The city plays host to numerous international and local cricket tournaments held in the sprawling Dubai Sports City. Major events like the DP World International League and the International League T20 attract national teams from across the globe, bringing together over 30,000 fans at the Dubai International Stadium.
This vibrant passion for cricket aligns with the Indian community’s contributions to Dubai’s diverse energy. Their influence, seen through culinary artistry and festive exuberance, adds layers to Dubai’s unique mosaic, highlighting how tradition and modernity blend in this bustling metropolis.
Illustration image: Adam Mowaki (MO4)/Indya by Vineet
