Alshaya Group Brings Chipotle to Saudi Arabia with Riyadh Debut

Alshaya Group, the leading international franchise retail operator in the region, is proud to announce the launch of Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with its first restaurant opening in Riyadh this August. 

This highly anticipated launch will bring Chipotle’s responsibly sourced, classically cooked real food to guests in Saudi Arabia for the first time, marking an exciting new milestone in the brand’s continued expansion across the Middle East.

The upcoming restaurant will introduce guests in Riyadh to Chipotle’s signature menu of burritos, bowls, tacos, quesadillas, and salads, all made with real ingredients and prepared in an open kitchen. Fans will be able to customise their meals with a choice of proteins, rice, beans, salsas, toppings, and Chipotle’s famous guacamole, delivering the same made-to-order experience that has made Chipotle a global favourite.

With Chipotle set to open at Sidra, a popular dining destination in the heart of the Kingdom’s capital located next to Granada Mall, guests will be able to find the new location by taking exit 9 on Imam Abdullah Ibn Saud Ibn Abdul Aziz Road.

Nate Lawton, Chief Development Officer at Chipotle, said: "We're pleased to introduce Chipotle to guests in Saudi Arabia for the first time. The Kingdom represents an important milestone in our international growth strategy and a compelling opportunity to expand in one of the Middle East's most dynamic consumer markets. Launching in Riyadh, home to one of the region's leading shopping and leisure destinations, provides an exceptional platform to introduce our brand to both local guests and international visitors. Together with Alshaya Group, we look forward to delivering the distinctive Chipotle experience and building a strong foundation for long-term growth in the region."

Jeff Kellen, President, Hospitality division at Alshaya Group, said: “Since its launch in the region over two years ago, Chipotle has surpassed all expectations to become one of our most loved brands. Knowing how eagerly consumers in KSA have awaited its arrival, we look forward to meeting their expectations with Chipotle’s delicious, fresh, and real-ingredient menu.”

The Saudi Arabia launch builds on Chipotle’s growing presence in the region through its partnership with Alshaya Group. Since entering the Middle East in 2024, Chipotle has opened 16 restaurants across the GCC with seven each in the UAE and Kuwait, and two in Qatar, bringing its distinctive fast-casual dining experience to more guests across the region.

Chipotle’s existing international portfolio of owned and operated restaurants includes locations across Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, as well as partner locations in the Middle East and Mexico. In North America, the Company continues to pursue significant long-term growth, supported by its commitment to responsibly sourced ingredients, culinary innovation, and digital convenience.

Further details, including the opening-day celebrations, mall location and countdown to the official opening date later this month, will be announced soon.