Lulu Group, led by Yusuff Ali, is expanding its retail presence with plans for 15 new projects in the UAE and 37 new stores in Saudi Arabia by 2028. This expansion will significantly contribute to job creation, with thousands of new positions set to be filled across both countries. As Lulu Group explores the outskirts of major cities, new job opportunities will arise, ranging from customer-facing roles to back-end positions in areas like service, management, and operations.
Expansion Focused on Growing Population Centers
The retail giant is targeting suburban and outskirt areas where the population is rapidly growing. As many residents move away from downtown areas to avoid high rents and traffic, Lulu is looking to open hypermarkets and express stores based on the density and demands of these regions. According to Yusuff Ali, the new stores will not only provide retail services but also contribute to the local economy by offering employment opportunities.
Thousands of Jobs to Be Created Across the GCC
Each new store is expected to create hundreds of jobs. For example, a typical Lulu hypermarket employs around 290 people, while express stores hire about 55 individuals. This job creation will be a key part of Lulu’s strategy to expand its presence throughout the GCC region.
Lulu’s CEO, Saifee Rupawala, emphasized the potential for growth in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia, stating that the group is in discussions for over 30 projects in the UAE, with further expansion planned in Saudi Arabia. The focus on job creation is integral to Lulu’s strategy as it strengthens its retail footprint across the Middle East.
Looking to the Future with Saudi Arabia
Lulu Group is also focusing heavily on Saudi Arabia as part of its growth strategy. The company plans to open 37 new stores in the Kingdom, aiming for a total of 100 stores by 2028. The group has identified 31 cities in Saudi Arabia where it plans to increase its retail presence, aligning with the country’s Vision 2030 initiative to boost organized retail.
Job Opportunities Across Multiple GCC Markets
This expansion is set to transform the retail landscape of the GCC and create new job opportunities for residents. In addition to the UAE and Saudi Arabia, Lulu is also eyeing new towns in Kuwait, further extending its reach and providing employment opportunities to more people across the region.
Lulu’s strategic expansion will not only enhance its retail footprint but will also play a key role in the economic growth of the regions it enters, creating jobs, boosting local economies, and contributing to the development of the GCC retail market.
