Chipotle completes first franchise deal in Middle East

Chipotle Mexican Grill signed on Tuesday its first Middle East franchise deal to open burritos and tacos restaurants next year in the Middle East, in Dubai and Kuwait.

Chipotle will expand operations across the region, it said after it signed the partnership agreement with Kuwaiti firm, Alshaya Group.

Chipotle has over 3,000 restaurants in the United States and 50 international outlets and is exploring opportunities globally for other franchise deals.

Alshaya has partnered with Starbucks, Shake Shack, Victoria’s Secret, and American Eagle Outfitters to open outlets in the Middle East and Europe.