Primark Launches First Middle East Store Through Alshaya Group Partnership

Primark has entered the Middle East with its first store in Kuwait through a franchise partnership with Alshaya Group. Additional openings are planned across Dubai in 2026.

Primark has officially launched its presence in the Middle East, marking a significant milestone in the retailer’s international expansion strategy. The Irish fashion brand has opened its first regional store at The Avenues mall in Kuwait through its franchise partnership with Alshaya Group, one of the region’s leading retail operators.

The opening follows the strategic agreement announced between Primark and Alshaya Group in 2024, aimed at bringing the popular value-fashion retailer to customers across the Gulf region.

The new Kuwait flagship spans more than 60,000 square feet across two levels and is expected to generate approximately 350 local jobs. With this launch, the Middle East becomes the 18th market in which Primark operates.

The company has already outlined its next phase of regional growth. Three additional stores are scheduled to open in Dubai during 2026, including locations at Dubai Mall, City Centre Mirdif, and Mall of the Emirates. These openings will strengthen Primark’s footprint in one of the region’s most dynamic retail destinations.

Beyond the Middle East, Primark is also continuing its expansion in North America. The retailer plans to open its first flagship store in Manhattan, New York, in 2026, building on a decade of operations in the United States.

According to company executives, the partnership with Alshaya Group represents an important step in Primark’s long-term international development strategy. The retailer intends to explore further opportunities across the Middle East as consumer demand for affordable fashion continues to grow.

Financially, Primark reported modest sales growth during the first half of the year, supported largely by new store openings. Operating profit also increased, reflecting the company’s ongoing expansion efforts despite a more challenging retail environment.

Today, Primark operates approximately 475 stores worldwide across Europe, the United States, and now the Middle East, reinforcing its position as one of the leading players in the global value-fashion sector.

Middle East Franchise Editorial Team