Primark and Alshaya Group are set to expand across the Middle East in 2026, as the value fashion retailer accelerates its regional growth following a strong debut in Kuwait.
Primark said it will open five new stores across the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Qatar, deepening its franchise partnership with Alshaya, one of the region’s largest retail operators.
The expansion will begin in the UAE, where three Primark stores are scheduled to open in Dubai during the first half of 2026. The first outlet is set to launch at Dubai Mall on March 26, followed by openings at City Centre Mirdif in April and Mall of the Emirates in May, the company said.
Later in the year, Primark will enter Bahrain and Qatar for the first time, with new stores planned at City Centre Bahrain and Doha Festival City, extending the brand’s footprint into two additional Gulf markets.
The move follows Primark’s first Middle East store opening at The Avenues mall in Kuwait in October 2025, which attracted strong customer interest and marked the retailer’s entry into the region through its partnership with Alshaya.
Primark, owned by Associated British Foods, is known for offering low-priced clothing, accessories and home products, and has been expanding internationally as consumers increasingly seek value-focused retailers amid economic uncertainty.
The company said the Middle East offers long-term growth potential, supported by a young population, rising mall-based retail demand and strong appetite for international fashion brands.
Alshaya said the expansion reflects confidence in the Primark brand and underscores plans to scale its regional presence further as new markets open to international retailers.
With the latest expansion plans, Primark said it expects to operate in 21 markets globally by the end of 2026, strengthening its position beyond Europe and the United States.
