The restaurant secured top honours at the 19th Dubai International Food Safety Conference after advancing through multiple evaluation stages, recognising its strong food safety standards, sustainable practices, accessibility and world-class service
Rixos Premium Dubai’s signature all-day dining concept, Turquoise, has long been a staple among discerning guests. Building on its reputation for delivering exceptional globally inspired dining experiences, the restaurant was recently awarded first place in the prestigious Food Elite Program at the annual Dubai International Food Safety Conference (DIFSC). The win highlights Turquoise’s continued focus on leading with robust food safety, sustainability and accessibility practices that set a positive example for the wider hospitality community.
Turquoise earned eligibility for the award after receiving the coveted A Gold rating in Dubai Municipality’s food safety inspections for the second year in a row. This rating opened the door to the Food Elite Program, which evaluates establishments on food safety, sustainability initiatives, accessibility measures, and quality management. The restaurant advanced through several stages, including being selected as one of the top 50 hotels and later progressing to the top ten following an online interview with the inspectors.
The process continued with an in-depth site visit by Dubai Municipality assessors, who reviewed Turquoise’s operational practices, safety standards, and guest-focused procedures. After the evaluation round, the top five were presented to the Dubai International Food Safety Conference for final consideration. Turquoise ultimately secured the first-place honour at the conference, held from November 17th to 19th at Dubai World Trade Centre, and recognised as one of the world’s most influential food safety events.
Speaking on the achievement, Turgay Erdogan, General Manager of Rixos Premium Dubai, said, ‘We strive to deliver our guests the very best of everything, and Turquoise has always played a key role in that vision. Every day, our team shows up with pride and care, creating moments where guests feel truly looked after through quality food and thoughtful service. That attention to detail flows through every part of the experience, and we’re thrilled to see their efforts recognised on such a respected stage.’
Turquoise is renowned for its dynamic blend of Turkish and international dishes, prepared at live cooking stations and served across a lavish buffet. Guests can enjoy the lively atmosphere indoors or savour relaxed moments on the terrace, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf and the vibrant energy of JBR.
Achieving first place in Dubai Municipality’s Food Elite Program represents an exciting milestone for Turquoise and Rixos Premium Dubai as a whole, spotlighting its strong food safety culture and the people behind it. Through robust systems and mindful practices at every stage of preparation and service, the restaurant is helping to shape a safer and more thoughtful dining culture across Dubai.
