ALSHAYA LAUNCHES PRIMARK IN THE GCC
A landmark expansion into the Middle East.
In October 2025, Primark made its highly anticipated Middle East debut through a strategic franchise partnership with Alshaya Group, opening its first regional store at The Avenues in Kuwait.
This landmark launch marked Primark’s first-ever franchise agreement and the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the brand’s international expansion.
IDW Rare Basic is proud to have supplied all mannequins across the stores, supporting Primark’s distinctive visual identity as it enters new markets and reaches new customers across the Gulf.
The partnership continues to expand across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), with openings spanning the UAE, Bahrain and Qatar, and further growth planned in Saudi Arabia.
A growing regional presence:
Kuwait: The first regional store opened at The Avenues in October 2025.
United Arab Emirates: Stores opened at Dubai Mall, City Centre Mirdif and Mall of the Emirates during 2026.
Bahrain: Primark expanded into the market with a store at City Centre Bahrain.
Qatar: The brand made its debut at Doha Festival City in October 2026.
Saudi Arabia: The first store is scheduled to open at The Avenues – Riyadh in March 2027.
As Primark continues its expansion across the region, IDW Rare Basic is delighted to play a part in bringing the brand to life through high-quality mannequin displays, helping create a consistent and recognisable in-store experience across international markets.