Primark has confirmed plans to open its first four stores in the Middle East.

The retailer said the stores will open by the end of 2025 across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), confirming plans to open its first store in Kuwait in October this year.

Two more stores will open in Dubai and one at the Mirdif Centre in early 2026.

The plans have been confirmed in collaboration with Alshaya Group, an international franchise operator based in Kuwait, with whom Primark entered a partnership in September 2024.

Some of the brands managed and operated by Alshaya Group include Raising Cane's, Mothercare, American Eagle, Harvey Nichols Kuwait, Payless ShoeSource, Topshop, Starbucks, Shake Shack, The Cheesecake Factory, and Pinkberry.

In addition to its retail activities, Alshaya Group has holdings in real estate, construction, hospitality, automotive and general trading, primarily in the Middle East.

This move, which marks Primark's entry into its 18th and 19th markets, will see the two companies continue to work together with the aim of opening more stores in other markets in the region, they said in a statement.

Primark's interim chief executive officer, Eoin Tonge, shared his enthusiasm for the retailer's next step in its global expansion into the Middle East.

“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,” he added.

Originally founded in Dublin, Ireland, 56 years ago, Primark currently operates over 460 stores across 17 markets, with its offering including fashion and essential items at affordable prices.

In March, Primark partnered with Pinterest to launch its new spring home collection.

The new collection has launched in Primark shops, with products also available via Pinterest thanks to the retailer’s Click & Collect service.

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