Chipotle Mexican Grill has opened its first location in Kuwait in partnership with leading international franchise retail operator Alshaya Group.
According to the statement, Chipotle’s location in The Avenues – Kuwait marks the company’s first entry into a new country in 10 years.
Chipotle is expected to open its first Dubai restaurant this October at The Beach – JBR in partnership with Merex Investment, a joint venture between Dubai Holding and Brookfield Asset Management.
Nate Lawton, Chief Business Development Officer of Chipotle, said that, “In partnership with Alshaya Group, we worked tirelessly to ensure that we delivered an exceptional first impression in Kuwait with our freshly prepared menu of real ingredients and we are encouraged by the early results. Together, we’ll continue to gather insights on regional preferences and adapt accordingly as we grow our presence in the region and expand upon our mission to Cultivate a Better World.”
John Hadden, Chief Executive Officer of Alshaya Group, stated that, “Consumers have long awaited Chipotle’s arrival here in the Middle East and the feedback we’ve received so far has confirmed that we’re delivering the same delicious culinary experience that guests have had in their US locations. We’re proud to have introduced this popular American restaurant to Kuwait, and we’re looking forward to Dubai later this year as the first location in our exclusive partnership with Chipotle.”
In 2023, Chipotle signed its first-ever development agreement to open restaurants in partnership with the Alshaya Group. Chipotle and Alshaya plan to open the first Chipotle location in Dubai later this year.
