From retail to real estate: Primark success and Dubai Hills Project mark new chapter for Alshaya
Retail giant employs 40,000 people across 18 international markets
DUBAI – Dubai is set to play an even larger role in the future growth strategy of Alshaya Group, one of the region’s biggest retail operators, as the company expands its footprint through a major property development and the rapid rollout of Primark stores across the emirate.
Speaking in an interview with the Government of Dubai Media Office, Alshaya Group Chief Executive Officer John Hadden highlighted the company's deep roots in the UAE and its growing ambitions in Dubai. Operating across 18 countries spanning the Middle East, North Africa and Europe, Alshaya manages more than 3,500 stores representing 70 international brands and employs around 40,000 people.
Hadden said the company has been part of the UAE for more than four decades, describing Dubai as a cornerstone of Alshaya’s growth journey and a key driver of its future plans.
Regional presence
Alshaya has built one of the largest retail portfolios in the region, bringing global brands to consumers across multiple markets. According to Hadden, the company’s operations stretch from the Gulf to North Africa and Europe, giving it a significant presence in international retail.
John Hadden, CEO of Alshaya Group, in an interview with the Government of Dubai Media Office: Alshaya Group operates in 18 countries across the Middle East, North Africa and Europe, managing more than 3,500 stores representing 70 global brands and employing around 40,000 people.… pic.twitter.com/dFIub45JxM
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) June 11, 2026
While the group continues to expand across its existing markets, Dubai remains central to its strategy. Hadden noted that the emirate has not only played an important role in the company’s development over the past 40 years but is also expected to underpin future growth opportunities.
He said Alshaya is proud to have been part of the UAE’s development journey and sees Dubai as a critical market for continued investment and expansion.
Dubai Hills
One of the company’s most significant upcoming projects is a joint venture with Canadian investment firm Brookfield.
Hadden said the two companies, which have worked together for many years, identified an opportunity to combine their expertise on a major site in Dubai Hills. Construction is expected to begin by the end of the year.
The project will feature a mixed-use development designed to serve both Alshaya and the wider Dubai Hills community. Plans include residential elements, retail concepts and office space capable of accommodating thousands of people.
The development is intended to become a hub for residents, businesses and visitors, further strengthening Alshaya’s long-term presence in Dubai.
Hadden described the project as an exciting milestone for the company and said the response since its announcement has been exceptionally positive.
Primark success
Alongside its property ambitions, Alshaya is celebrating the rapid success of Primark in Dubai.
The value fashion retailer made its UAE debut at Dubai Mall in March and has expanded at remarkable speed. Within just seven weeks, Primark opened three stores across the city, including locations at Dubai Mall, City Centre Mirdif and Mall of the Emirates.
Hadden said the customer response has exceeded expectations, describing demand as unlike anything the company has experienced before.
He credited the success to strong support from consumers, government entities and key partners. Among those recognised were property groups Emaar and Majid Al Futtaim, alongside logistics providers and the wider Primark and Alshaya teams.
The retailer’s arrival generated significant attention across the UAE retail sector, with shoppers flocking to stores to explore the brand’s fashion and lifestyle offering.
Strong support
Hadden also expressed appreciation for the support received from Dubai’s leadership and institutions during Primark’s launch in the market.
He described a visit by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to the Dubai Mall store as one of the proudest moments in Alshaya’s history in the UAE.
The CEO thanked Dubai government entities, tourism authorities, business partners and the wider community for embracing the brand and helping facilitate its market entry.