A Starbucks store in Dubai | Photo credit: Starbucks 

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Alshaya Group has opened its 1000th Starbucks store in the MENA region. The Bluewaters Island Reserve store is located close to Dubai’s upmarket Marina Walk, with the format taking its name from the city’s Bluewaters Island and featuring an aquatic design theme.
 
“We’re delighted to commemorate Starbucks’ 22-year journey in the region with the opening of our 1,000th store. Our new Starbucks Bluewaters Reserve destination represents our commitment to brand authenticity, constant evolution and continuing to strengthen our ties with the local communities,” said Andy Holmes, President of Starbucks MENA at Alshaya Group.”
 
Established in 1890, Alshaya Group franchises major hospitality and retail brands, including, Starbucks, H&M, Pizza Express and Shake Shack across the MENA region, Russia, Turkey and Europe,
 
Alshaya Group partnered with Starbucks in 1999, opening its first store in the Middle East that year and entering the UAE market in 2000.
 
Since then, Alshaya has expanded Starbucks across 14 countries, including 10 markets in the Middle East and North Africa region. Saudi Arabia is currently Starbucks’ largest MENA market, with around 300 stores, followed by 230 outlets in the UAE and 180 in Kuwait.