UK-based food and coffee chain Pret A Manger has opened its first store in Riyadh, marking a new chapter in the brand’s presence in Saudi Arabia. The new outlet is located in Al Olaya Towers, a prominent site in the city’s commercial district, near Bank Albilad metro station.
Founded in London in 1984, Pret A Manger — often referred to simply as “Pret” — has become known for its grab-and-go concept, offering fresh, ready-to-eat meals made with organic ingredients, alongside a range of coffee and beverages. The brand has grown to over 430 outlets worldwide, primarily in the UK and France.
The Riyadh opening, managed by Pret’s regional franchise partner One PM Holding, follows the company’s September 2024 entry into the Saudi market with a store at Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport. However, this new branch represents Pret’s first standalone location in an urban setting in the Kingdom.
The menu in Riyadh reflects Pret’s global offerings, including items such as the Chicken Avocado Sandwich, Falafel and Halloumi Wrap, Egg and Avocado Baguette, and Turkey Melt. Hot and iced beverages such as the Iced Matcha Latte are available, alongside fresh juices, pastries, and health-oriented “shot” drinks. While seating is limited, the interior is bright and minimalist, catering to both dine-in and takeaway customers. A classic red London telephone booth placed outside the store adds a visual nod to the brand’s British roots.
Pret’s entry into Riyadh comes as part of a wider international growth strategy aimed at capitalising on the Gulf’s rapidly evolving food and beverage landscape. The store has created 70 local jobs and signals the growing appeal of Saudi Arabia’s urban centres to international food service operators.
Although Pret is popular in the UK as a reliable coffee stop, it enters a Saudi market that has quickly developed a reputation for its sophisticated specialty coffee scene. Visitors familiar with Riyadh’s many artisanal cafés may find Pret’s coffee offerings more basic by comparison. However, the chain’s appeal lies in its speed, consistency, and accessibility — offering a convenient choice for professionals in the area or those nostalgic for their experiences abroad.
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