Dubai, UAE – September 7, 2025 – The world’s largest retailer, Walmart Inc., has officially announced its grand entry into the United Arab Emirates (UAE), marking one of the region’s most anticipated retail expansions. With over 11,000+ hypermarkets and supermarkets worldwide and a presence in 20+ countries, Walmart is set to revolutionize the Middle East’s retail and e-commerce ecosystem. The retail giant is preparing to launch 10 state-of-the-art Walmart outlets across the UAE as part of its larger GCC expansion strategy, which includes Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the UAE, with operations scheduled to begin by January 1, 2026.
Global Expansion Strategy
This milestone forms part of Walmart’s broader international growth plan, where the company adapts its strategies based on regional markets. In India, Walmart operates through Flipkart, while in Japan, it previously partnered with Seiyu, and in South Africa, through Massmart. The same adaptive approach is expected in the GCC region, where a potential new regional brand identity may be introduced. “Our goal is to deliver an exceptional retail experience to GCC customers while fostering local partnerships and supporting economic growth,” said Doug McMillon, CEO of Walmart Inc.
“The UAE launch is a significant step toward expanding our footprint across the Middle East.”
The infrastructure development of all 10 UAE locations is currently at 80% completion, spearheaded by Emaar Properties, one of the region’s most trusted developers. Walmart’s flagship UAE outlets are being designed to combine cutting-edge retail spaces with AI- powered automation to optimize inventory, enhance customer experience, and reduce operational inefficiencies.
Massive Hiring Drive Underway
Walmart’s entry is set to generate 5,000+ new job opportunities across multiple segments, including: Retail operations & store management, Supply chain & logistics, IT & AI-driven automation roles, E-commerce & omnichannel operations, Customer service, finance, and HR positions
The company has partnered with leading human resource firms across the UAE, India, and, Asia to ensure a diverse and skilled workforce.
“This is not just a retail expansion; it’s a technology-driven transformation,” added Mr. Allen Mark Operations Head – MENA. “AI-powered systems, predictive inventory management, and fully automated warehouses will redefine the shopping experience in the UAE.” Opportunities for Commodity Suppliers
The UAE launch opens doors for commodity suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors across Asia to partner with the world’s largest retailer. Walmart’s extensive procurement strategy will demand high-volume supply chains across categories like: FMCG & packaged foods, Electronics & consumer appliances, Fashion, footwear & lifestyle products, Pharmaceuticals & personal care
AI-driven automation solutions & smart retail technology, This expansion is expected to disrupt regional pricing structures while driving competitive
sourcing opportunities for Asian exporters and manufacturers
Key Highlights of Walmart’s UAE Launch
Launch Date: January 1, 2026
Locations: 10 mega outlets across UAE
Infrastructure Partner: Emaar Properties
Workforce Requirement: 5,000+ employees
Automation Strategy: AI-powered inventory & operations
GCC Expansion: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman
Potential Regional Branding: New identity under consideration
Hiring Partners: Leading HR firms across South East Asia
Regional Impact
Walmart’s UAE entry is expected to reshape the region’s retail ecosystem, giving tough competition to existing players like Carrefour, Lulu, and Union Coop. It also signals a massive boost in employment, supplier contracts, and trade opportunities between the GCC and Asia. With global experience in adapting to diverse markets – Flipkart in India, Best Price in China, Seiyu in Japan, and Massmart in Africa – Walmart’s UAE strategy is expected to combine global operational excellence with localized consumer preferences. What’s Next
As the AI-enabled infrastructure nears completion and the hiring drive gains momentum, Walmart is setting the stage for one of the largest retail rollouts in GCC history. Suppliers, job seekers, and technology partners across Asia and the Middle East are now positioning themselves to capitalize on this multi-billion-dollar retail revolution. About Walmart Founded in 1962 by Sam Walton, Walmart has grown into the world’s largest retailer, operating 11,000+ stores globally across 20+ countries, employing over 2.3 million associates worldwide. Its entry into the GCC marks a new era of next-generation retail innovation.
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Regional Impact
Walmart’s UAE entry is expected to reshape the region’s retail ecosystem, giving tough competition to existing players like Carrefour, Lulu, and Union Coop. It also signals a massive boost in employment, supplier contracts, and trade opportunities between the GCC and Asia. With global experience in adapting to diverse markets – Flipkart in India, Best Price in China, Seiyu in Japan, and Massmart in Africa – Walmart’s UAE strategy is expected to combine global operational excellence with localized consumer preferences. What’s Next
As the AI-enabled infrastructure nears completion and the hiring drive gains momentum, Walmart is setting the stage for one of the largest retail rollouts in GCC history. Suppliers, job seekers, and technology partners across Asia and the Middle East are now positioning themselves to capitalize on this multi-billion-dollar retail revolution. About Walmart Founded in 1962 by Sam Walton, Walmart has grown into the world’s largest retailer, operating 11,000+ stores globally across 20+ countries, employing over 2.3 million associates worldwide. Its entry into the GCC marks a new era of next-generation retail innovation.
This release was published on openPR.
