Chipotle Opens First Saudi Arabia Restaurant as Alshaya Group Expands Brand Across GCC
Alshaya Group has officially opened the first Chipotle Mexican Grill restaurant in Saudi Arabia, bringing the US fast-casual restaurant brand to the Kingdom as part of its wider Middle East expansion.
The new restaurant is located at Sidra, a popular dining destination in Riyadh next to Granada Mall. The opening marks a significant step in Chipotle's regional growth and gives Saudi customers access to its menu of burritos, bowls, tacos, quesadillas and salads.
Chipotle Brings Made-to-Order Menu to Riyadh
The Riyadh restaurant features Chipotle's signature made-to-order dining experience, with meals prepared using fresh ingredients in an open kitchen.
Customers can customise their meals by selecting from a range of proteins, rice, beans, salsas and toppings, as well as Chipotle's signature guacamole.
Nate Lawton, Chief Business Development Officer at Chipotle, said the Saudi opening represents an important milestone in the company's international growth strategy.
He described Riyadh as a fast-growing city with a dynamic dining sector and said Chipotle is looking forward to building a strong connection with Saudi customers through its food and restaurant experience.
Alshaya Expands Chipotle's Regional Footprint
John Hadden, CEO of Alshaya Group, said the company was pleased to mark Chipotle's arrival in Saudi Arabia with its first Riyadh restaurant.
He said the launch reflects Alshaya Group's focus on bringing international brands and new dining experiences to customers across the region, adding that there had been strong anticipation for Chipotle's entry into the Saudi market.
The Saudi opening builds on the partnership between Chipotle and Alshaya Group, which began expanding the brand across the Middle East in 2024.
Chipotle now operates 17 restaurants across the GCC, including seven in the UAE, seven in Kuwait, two in Qatar and one in Saudi Arabia.
More GCC Expansion Planned for 2027
Chipotle's regional expansion is expected to continue next year, with the company planning to enter Bahrain in 2027.
The brand also plans to expand its Saudi presence with a new restaurant in Jeddah, adding to its first location in Riyadh.
The expansion comes as international restaurant brands continue to increase their presence across Gulf markets, supported by growing consumer demand and the region's expanding food and beverage sector.
Chipotle's International Network
Beyond the Middle East, Chipotle's international portfolio includes company-owned and operated restaurants in Canada, the United Kingdom, France and Germany, alongside partner-operated locations in the Middle East and Mexico.
The company continues to pursue long-term international and North American growth, with its strategy centred on responsibly sourced ingredients, culinary innovation and digital convenience.
The opening in Riyadh adds Saudi Arabia to Chipotle's growing international footprint and establishes a platform for further expansion across the Kingdom.
