Leading international retail franchise operator Alshaya Group and the largest U.S.specialty beauty retailer, Ulta Beauty, confirmed today additional details regarding their franchise partnership, first announced in January.

Alshaya and Ulta Beauty are planning to open the first store in The Avenues, Kuwait, followed by the Mall of the Emirates in Dubai, targeting the end of the year.  

Ulta Beauty stores in the region will offer a broad portfolio of brands across price points and categories, embodying Ulta Beauty’s unique model of All Things Beauty, All in One Place^®.

John Hadden, CEO, Alshaya Group said:

"We are really excited to confirm that our Ulta Beauty stores will open in Kuwait and Dubai by the end of the year.  We know that consumers can’t wait to visit the region’s first Ulta Beauty stores, where they can experience a fun environment and access many beloved brands for the first time in the region.”

Kecia Steelman, CEO, UltaBeauty added:

“We are looking forward to bringing Ulta Beauty’s differentiated business model to the Middle East working in partnership with Alshaya Group, starting with Kuwait and Dubai and with more locations to follow. The power of beauty is truly universal, and we are excited to welcome anew community of beauty enthusiasts across the region in our first stores.”

Following the opening of Ulta Beauty in Kuwait and Dubai, more stores will open across the GCC in2026.