People living in Dubai will soon be able to pop into Penney's for a few bits!
The retailer's announced dates in March, April and May for three new stores in the UAE.
The outlets will use the UK trading name of Primark, and will be closely followed by shops in Bahrain and Qatar before the end of this year.
Penneys. Credit: AG News/Alamy Live News. 1st Dec, 2020.The shop initially entered the Middle East market last October when it opened a branch in Kuwait.
In partnership with leading international retail franchise operator Alshaya Group, Primark will open in the UAE with three stores in Dubai in the first half of the year, with the first store opening on 26th March in Dubai Mall.
Its also set to open stores in two further new markets Bahrain and Qatar by the end of 2026.
Eoin Tonge, Primark Interim CEO, said: “It’s been amazing to see the reaction to the opening of our very first store in Kuwait, which shows the potential of our brand in the Middle East. We are now delighted to announce the expansion of our franchise partnership with Alshaya Group with five stores due to open in 2026 in UAE, Bahrain and Qatar – beginning with Dubai Mall in March. Today is an exciting moment for us and our growth ambitions, as we move forward with plans to reach 21 countries.”
John Hadden, CEO, Alshaya Group, said: "We are incredibly proud of working with Primark to bring this most anticipated brand to shoppers across the region, and we are looking forward to opening in three countries with five stores this year. This is just the beginning as we work with Primark to grow the brand, after such a fantastic first opening in Kuwait. Next stop Dubai in March!”
After more than 55 years, Primark now operates more than 475 stores in 18 countries across the UK, Europe, the Middle East and the US.
The retailer is also preparing to expand in its existing markets, including opening its first flagship store in Manhattan, New York, in Spring this year after recently marking its 10-year anniversary in the US last year.
