International fashion retailer Primark has confirmed plans to debut in the Middle East, in partnership with leading international retail franchise operator Alshaya Group.
Following the announcement of the strategic partnership in September 2024, Primark and Alshaya have confirmed plans to open the first of its new stores before the end of 2025 across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) - starting with Kuwait (The Avenues, Kuwait) in October this year and Dubai in early 2026 with Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates and City Centre Mirdif.
With four stores for Primark in the Middle East across the UAE and Kuwait, Primark and Alshaya will also continue to work together to consider future stores in other markets across the region.
Primark Interim CEO, Eoin Tonge said: “We’re excited to be taking the next step in our global expansion journey, creating new stores for more customers to enjoy shopping with us. It’s fantastic to be preparing for our first stores to arrive in the Middle East in partnership with Alshaya Group. We know there is already a strong cohort of shoppers ready and waiting for us and we believe the wider region holds a lot of potential for Primark and our value proposition. We can’t wait to bring them their first Primark later this year in The Avenues, Kuwait, before we continue to expand with more stores planned for Dubai next year.”
John Hadden, CEO, Alshaya Group said: “Since we announced our partnership a few months ago, we’ve seen how excited our customers are for Primark’s fantastic stores to open in the region. We are incredibly proud of our partnership with Primark, and we are all looking forward to much anticipated first stores in the next few months.”
Originally founded in Dublin, Ireland, 56 years ago, Primark currently operates over 460 stores across 17 markets, offering its customers great quality fashion and essential items at affordable prices. This includes its popular licensed collections and more premium collections such as its global collaboration with Rita Ora and premium womenswear and home ranges, The Edit. With clothing and accessories for women, men and kids as well as a wide range of homeware and beauty, Primark prides itself on having something for everyone under one roof, all at the best value.
