Lulu Retail to open 50 new stores across Middle East: Hundreds of jobs up for grabs across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Bahrain
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 15, 2026
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Lulu Retail Holdings, the largest pan-GCC full-line retailer, has announced a major expansion plan to open 50 new stores across the Middle East between 2026 and 2028. This ambitious move is set to transform the regional retail landscape while generating hundreds of new job opportunities in countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain. The initiative aligns with Lulu's goal to strengthen its market presence by introducing a mix of hypermarkets, express outlets, and value-format stores, catering to both urban and suburban areas.
Lulu Retail currently operates 267 stores across the GCC, with plans to expand its network significantly over the next three years. The new stores will enhance accessibility to groceries and daily essentials, reflecting Lulu’s strategy to adapt to modern shopping trends by focusing on smaller, convenience-oriented formats. For instance, the recent opening of a Lulu Xpress store in Ras Al Khaimah highlights the company's commitment to neighborhood convenience.
The expansion is expected to drive significant economic impact, particularly through job creation. The new stores will create opportunities in retail operations, supply chain logistics, customer service, and store management. This hiring surge builds on Lulu’s history of large-scale recruitment efforts tied to its growth initiatives. Additionally, the company’s broader presence supports local economies by strengthening supply chains, promoting national agriculture, and contributing to GCC countries' economic diversification goals.
Lulu's expansion also underscores broader trends in the Gulf retail sector, including the growing demand for convenience shopping formats and digital integration. The company has already seen strong growth in its e-commerce platform, complementing its physical store rollout. Its loyalty program, "Happiness," has also gained millions of members, driving sustained sales through personalized promotions.
As Lulu Retail continues to innovate and expand, it positions itself
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/15/2026