Operations

Chipotle opening in Saudi Arabia

Photo: Chipotle

August 13, 2026

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Chipotle Mexican Grill is opening its first restaurant in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia later this month in partnership with Alshaya Group, at Sidra, a dining destination in Riyadh next to the Granada Mall.

"We're pleased to introduce Chipotle to guests in Saudi Arabia for the first time," Nate Lawton, chief business development officer at Chipotle, said in a company press release. "Expanding into the Kingdom advances our international growth strategy and provides a compelling opportunity to serve one of the Middle East's most dynamic consumer markets"

The opening builds on Chipotle's continued expansion in partnership with Alshaya Group. Since 2024, Chipotle has opened 16 restaurants across the Middle East, including seven in the United Arab Emirates, seven in Kuwait and two in Qatar.

"Since its launch in the region over two years ago, Chipotle has surpassed all expectations to become one of our most loved brands," Jeff Kellen, president, Hospitality division at Alshaya Group, said in the release. "Knowing how eagerly consumers in KSA have awaited its arrival, we look forward to meeting their expectations with Chipotle's delicious, fresh, and real-ingredient menu."

Chipotle's international growth

Chipotle continues to expand its international footprint with more than 80 company-owned restaurants in Canada, 21 in the U.K., six in France and two in Germany. The company, in partnership with Alsea, recently entered Mexico with its first restaurant in Nuevo León. Chipotle currently operates more than 4,200 restaurants worldwide and expects to open between 350 and 370 new restaurants in 2026 as it continues to execute its "Recipe for Growth" strategy, including a target of operating 7,000 locations in the U.S. and Canada.