With the opening of its 24th hypermarket, Dubai-based retail behemoth Lulu Group is stepping up its efforts in Saudi Arabia, which now accounts for an astounding 20% of its global sales (Dh5.5 billion yearly). The new megastore in [insert city]—packed with AI-powered checkouts and a halal food court—underscores Lulu’s aggressive GCC growth strategy while competitors struggle with inflation pressures.
Why Saudi?
Faster revenue growth than UAE (KSA sales up 18% YoY).
Vision 2030 boom: Expanding malls and tourism = retail gold rush.
Localized offerings: 40% Saudi-made FMCG products in-store.
The Secret Sauce? In the suburban centres of Saudi Arabia, Lulu’s “hypermarket-as-destination” model—which combines grocery, entertainment, and technology—is surpassing e-commerce. The business managed by Yusuff Ali is placing a large wager on Saudi Arabia’s thirst for physical retail, with three more locations anticipated by 2025.
