Primark Expands into the Middle East with its First Kuwait Store

Strategic Insights -

Primark has marked a significant milestone in its international expansion by launching its first store in the Middle East at Grand Plaza, The Avenues in Kuwait. The retailer, which has partnered with Alshaya Group, has emphasized its commitment to the region, highlighting the strength of its brand and the growth potential of the market. The Kuwait store, spanning over 60,000 sq ft, carries Primark's full range of products, including collaborations with popular brands such as Disney and a collection with Spanish influencer Paula Echevarra. The store has created 350 jobs and attracted thousands of customers on its opening day.

Key Takeaways:

  • Primark has launched its first store in the Middle East, partnering with Alshaya Group in Kuwait, marking its 18th international market entry.
  • The Kuwait store is the first franchise store for Primark, which spans over 60,000 sq ft across two floors and employs 350 staff.
  • The store offers a wide range of products, including collaborations with Disney and Spanish influencer Paula Echevarra.
  • Shoppers can also explore The Edit, Primark's premium fashion line, which offers a more exclusive range of products.
  • Primark plans to open three additional stores in Dubai in the first half of 2026, starting with Dubai Mall in March.
  • The company has announced plans to continue evaluating further locations across the Middle East.
  • This move marks an important step in Primark's international expansion, following its 10-year anniversary in the United States and plans to open a flagship store in Manhattan in 2026.
  • Primark now operates 475 stores across 18 countries in Europe, the US, and the Middle East.

Statistics:

  • 60,000 sq ft: the size of the Kuwait store.
  • 350: the number of staff employed at the Kuwaits store.
  • 18: the number of international markets entered by Primark.
  • 475: the number of stores operated by Primark across 18 countries.
  • 2026: the year in which Primark plans to open a flagship store in Manhattan, following its 10-year anniversary in the US.
  • 3: the number of additional stores to be opened in Dubai in the first half of 2026.

Sources:

  • A statement from Primark announcing the launch of its Kuwait store.
  • A quote from Eoin Tonge, Primark's interim CEO.
  • A quote from John Hadden, Alshaya Group's CEO.
  • Global Data Point. All Rights Reserved. 2025.
  • SyndiGate Media Inc. ().
  • (Primary source with no date mentioned)