Three major global retailers are entering the Dubai market in the coming months. Primark will open its first store in Dubai Mall in early 2026, Skims will debut at Mall of the Emirates, and Ulta Beauty is set to launch there by the end of this year.
The British fashion chain Primark is finally making its long-awaited debut in the UAE, with three stores planned across the country. The first will open at Dubai Mall early next year. The company promises to keep prices consistent with its European outlets — a move that will attract shoppers looking for affordable fashion, homeware, and accessories under one roof.
According to UAE property updates, the arrival of major international retail brands continues to drive growth in the country’s commercial real estate sector. Openings by global players such as Primark boost footfall in shopping malls and increase the rental value of surrounding retail spaces. Developers closely monitor these trends when planning new commercial projects and mixed-use developments.
Kim Kardashian’s Skims to open its first physical store in the region
The shapewear and loungewear brand Skims, founded by Kim Kardashian, is opening its first physical boutique in the Middle East at Mall of the Emirates. Until now, Skims products were only available online via the Ounass platform, but the store façade is already visible, signaling an imminent opening. Known for its viral popularity on social media, Skims focuses on comfortable, body-inclusive designs — bringing a modern, minimalist aesthetic to the regional retail landscape.
For entrepreneurs and investors owning commercial real estate in Dubai’s top shopping destinations, understanding asset management and succession planning is essential. Inheritance tax in the UAE does not apply, making the Emirates a favorable location for long-term asset holding. The absence of property transfer taxes simplifies estate planning and helps protect family and business interests when ownership passes to heirs.
Ulta Beauty to introduce the American beauty megastore concept to Dubai
By late 2025, the first Ulta Beauty store in Dubai will open in Mall of the Emirates. The U.S.-based retailer operates the largest chain of beauty megastores in America and is entering the region through a franchise agreement with Alshaya Group. The store will feature a wide selection of cosmetics — from luxury to affordable brands — including skincare, fragrances, and beauty accessories.
The Ulta Beauty concept combines retail with salon services, allowing U.S. customers to purchase products and enjoy professional makeup and hairstyling in the same space. It is still unclear whether the Dubai location will include in-store salon services. Still, the brand’s hypermarket-style format and diverse brand selection are already generating buzz among local beauty enthusiasts.
- Primark expands access to affordable fashion for middle-class consumers.
- Skims brings a popular global shapewear brand from online to offline.
- Ulta Beauty introduces an American-style beauty retail experience.
The arrival of these global names reinforces Dubai’s position as a key market for international retail expansion. Companies continue to choose the emirate as a gateway to the Middle East thanks to its strong consumer demand, world-class infrastructure, and cosmopolitan audience. Both Mall of the Emirates and Dubai Mall remain focal points for high-profile retail openings, further consolidating their status as the city’s leading shopping and lifestyle destinations.
