Eight years after launching in DIFC, GAIA has grown from a single Dubai concept into one of the most widely travelled luxury dining brands to emerge from the Gulf. By the end of 2026, it will operate across eight destinations worldwide, with three new openings confirmed before the year is out.
The most immediate is Miami, where GAIA makes its North American debut at the end of this month. As the brand’s sixth international outpost, it arrives in one of the world’s most competitive hospitality markets, and Fundamental Hospitality has indicated that Miami forms part of a broader strategy for U.S. expansion, with further openings planned beyond 2026.
A Greek Mediterranean concept born in Dubai
Founded in 2018 by Fundamental Hospitality’s Chairman and Founder Evgeny Kuzin alongside Chef Izu Ani, GAIA draws on the traditions of Greek Mediterranean dining, with an emphasis on quality ingredients and a strong sense of place.
“GAIA was created to embody warmth, generosity, and the spirit of Mediterranean dining, while carrying the creative confidence of Dubai to the world,” said Kuzin.
The culinary direction continues under Chef Izu Ani and Chef Orestis Vamvakidis, whose background in Greek cuisine adds further depth to the brand’s identity. Signature dishes, including the seabream carpaccio and frozen Greek yoghurt, have remained consistent across markets and are closely associated with the GAIA restaurant across all its locations.
From DIFC to eight cities
GAIA currently operates in Dubai, Doha, London, Monte Carlo, and Marbella, where it has established a consistent presence among the world’s leading luxury dining venues. In 2025, the concept served close to one million guests globally, recording approximately 967,000 covers across its locations. Together with Fundamental Hospitality’s NYX concept, which accounts for a further 340,000 covers annually, the group has cemented itself as one of the Gulf’s most active homegrown luxury hospitality operators.
The two Gulf openings in Abu Dhabi and Bahrain, both scheduled for the end of 2026, further extend the brand’s presence in the region where it first found its footing. “The Gulf region remains an important cornerstone of GAIA’s global expansion and our plans to expand remain with Abu Dhabi and Bahrain scheduled to open in the coming year,” said Kuzin. “Having spent over two decades building my career and business in Dubai, I remain confident in the long-term strength of the UAE and the wider Gulf, underpinned by visionary leadership.”
What the GAIA restaurant brings to Miami
The Miami opening marks the brand’s first address in North America and its sixth location globally. It is expected to follow the same Mediterranean format that has performed consistently across existing locations, from Dubai to Monte Carlo. Fundamental Hospitality, which was established in 2011 and also operates concepts including Shanghai Me, Alaya, and INA, has confirmed further international openings planned for 2027, with specific destinations yet to be announced.
Quick Summary – GAIA
- 🍽️ Cuisine: Greek Mediterranean
- 🌎 Current destinations: Dubai, Doha, London, Monte Carlo, Marbella
- 📅 New openings: Miami (April 2026), Abu Dhabi and Bahrain (end of 2026)
- ✨ Ideal for: Fans of Mediterranean dining seeking a consistently high-end dining experience
