Primark to Launch First Middle East Stores in Kuwait and UAE

Primark is on a global expansion spree and the latest stop is the Middle East. After announcing a €40 million investment in Italy earlier this week, the budget-friendly fashion giant has confirmed it will enter the Gulf region with its first stores opening in Kuwait and the UAE.

The move comes through a partnership with retail powerhouse Alshaya Group, one of the biggest franchise operators in the region.

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First Store Launches in Kuwait This October

The first store is set to open in Kuwait’s The Avenues Mall in October 2025. It marks Primark’s official debut in the GCC market and will be followed by three openings in the UAE.

Dubai to Welcome Three Stores by 2026

By early 2026, Primark will open three new stores in Dubai, at Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and City Centre Mirdif. That’s four major store launches in under two years, a bold move given the large size of Primark’s retail spaces.

More Stores Could Be on the Way

This launch isn’t a one-off. Primark and Alshaya have confirmed that they’re exploring future store openings in other GCC countries. So this expansion could grow well beyond Kuwait and the UAE.

Strong Demand From Middle East Shoppers

Eoin Tonge, Primark’s interim CEO, said, “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.”

Primark's Global Footprint Continues to Grow

Primark, founded 56 years ago, now operates over 460 stores across 17 countries. It’s known for affordable fashion, beauty, and homeware, and its growing presence reflects continued demand for value-driven retail.

Expansion in Italy Also Picks Up Pace

This Middle East announcement comes hot on the heels of another big reveal, five new stores in Italy. Primark will expand into Rome, Biella, Perugia, and Naples, bringing its total Italian locations to 26. This follows a €50 million investment in 2023 and shows the brand’s strong confidence in the European market.

Big Year Ahead for Primark

With store launches in both Europe and the Middle East, 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for Primark’s global growth.

This article was previously published on kuwaitmoments. To see the original article, click here