The Arabic version by MBC Group has so far been filmed in locations across the United Arab Emirates, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia.
MBC Group has joined forces with Neom Media Industries, a premier global media hub, to launch the production of the eighth season of Top Chef.
This new season brings a fresh creative direction to the reality TV series in the region, combining competitive culinary arts with the cutting-edge urban development of Neom. Originally launched by Bravo in the United States, Top Chef features chefs competing in various culinary challenges, judged by professional chefs and notable personalities from the food and beverage industry, with contestants eliminated at the end of each episode.
The Arabic version of Top Chef by MBC Group has previously been filmed in locations across the United Arab Emirates, Lebanon, and Saudi Arabia.
Samar Akrouk, MBC Group’s Director of Production and General Manager of MBC Studios, said: “Neom offers a visionary setting for the culinary excellence demonstrated in Top Chef. Bringing the show to Neom is not merely a change of location; it is a significant step in redefining the future of filming in the Kingdom. This eighth season will merge the high-energy competition that viewers expect with a strong emphasis on ecological awareness and sustainable living, reflecting the core values of Neom as a city of the future.”
She continued: “The latest season’s contestants will be taking on challenges that require innovative thinking and a sustainable approach, echoing the principles upon which Neom is built. These challenges have been designed to inspire contestants to think about food in its relation to the environment. For example, from using locally sourced ingredients to integrating energy-efficient cooking methods, each episode will contribute to a narrative of planetary stewardship.”
Production of the new season will take place in Neom Media Village, which boasts four world-class sound stages and resort-style accommodations for cast and crew. Each episode will feature rigorous challenges designed to push the chefs’ skills to the limit. Special appearances by international and regional guest judges, including Michelin-starred chefs, will add an extra layer of excitement and elevate the competition.
Wayne Borg, Managing Director for Media Industries, Neom, stated: “Neom has cemented its position as the regional hub for non-scripted formats, attracting top global talent to create unmissable TV content. Neom’s unparalleled range of sound stages, backlots, offices, workshops, support services, and other facilities meet the evolving needs of large-scale formats. We are delighted to reaffirm our ongoing partnership with MBC as we embark on the latest season of Top Chef. This collaboration underscores our mutual commitment to advancing the local ecosystem, as we continue to support MBC with an ambitious slate of premium content.”
In just two years, Neom has hosted over 40 productions, including Hollywood and Bollywood films, Arabic and Saudi feature films, high-quality TV documentaries, non-scripted entertainment, scripted productions, and commercials.
The eighth season of Top Chef is currently in production and will air on MBC Group’s TV channels later this year. Previous editions have featured judges such as Yannick Alléno, Andoni Luis Aduriz, Éric Fréchon, Alex Atala, Éric Briffard, Ghislaine Arabian, Jean-François Piège, Michel Sarran, Alan Geaam, David Rocco, Sébastien Vauxion and Michael Mina.
