Gymkhana London to Open First UAE Restaurant at DIFC in September 2026

Two Michelin-starred Indian restaurant Gymkhana will open its first UAE outlet in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) this September, marking the brand's latest international expansion.

Scheduled to open on Tuesday 1 September 2026, the restaurant will be located at Gate Village, Building 7, DIFC. The launch follows Gymkhana's expansion into Riyadh in 2023 and Las Vegas in 2025, as JKS Restaurants continues to grow its global hospitality portfolio.

Founded by siblings Jyotin, Karam and Sunaina Sethi of JKS Restaurants, Gymkhana first opened in London's Mayfair in 2013. The restaurant earned its first Michelin star within nine months of opening and was awarded a second Michelin star in 2024, establishing itself as one of London's leading Indian dining destinations.

Pavan Pardasani, Global CEO, JKS Restaurants, said, "Dubai has established itself as one of the world's leading culinary destinations, making it a natural home for Gymkhana's next chapter. Our ambition has always been to share the restaurant's approach to Indian cuisine and hospitality with new audiences, while remaining true to the heritage and character that define the brand. We are excited to bring Gymkhana to DIFC and look forward to welcoming guests to experience the food, service and atmosphere that have made the restaurant so special."

Saleh Al Akrabi, Chief Real Estate Officer, DIFC Investments, added, "DIFC is proud to be the home of Gymkhana's UAE debut. As Dubai's leading hub for world-class gastronomy, Gate Village is the perfect stage for Gymkhana's celebrated two Michelin-starred dining experience. We look forward to our community of residents, professionals, and international visitors experiencing their legendary hospitality right here in the heart of the city."

The Dubai restaurant will accommodate 137 guests across two levels, with an additional terrace. The interiors include two ground-floor dining spaces, while the lower level will feature a peacock-inspired bar alongside mirrored ceilings and chandeliers.

Gymkhana's menu will continue to focus on regional Indian cuisine, offering its signature chaat-style sharing plates, tandoori dishes, curries and biryanis. The Dubai outlet will also introduce exclusive dishes developed specifically for the market.

The opening further strengthens DIFC's position as a premium food and beverage destination, with the district continuing to attract international restaurant brands alongside its business and lifestyle ecosystem.