Chipotle Mexican Grill will open its first restaurant in Saudi Arabia later this month, in partnership with Alshaya Group.

Located at Sidra beside the Granada Mall, the opening in Riyadh marks Chipotle’s entry into the Kingdom and further reinforces the brand’s international growth strategy.

The menu will include burritos, bowls, tacos, quesadillas and salads, which Chipotle says are made with responsibly sourced, classically cooked ingredients and prepared in an open kitchen. Diners can also customise their meals by selecting proteins, rice, beans, salsas, toppings and Chipotle’s signature hand-mashed guacamole.

Nate Lawton, chief business development officer at Chipotle, said the expansion provides an opportunity to serve one of the Middle East’s “most dynamic” consumer markets.

“Riyadh is home to one of the region’s leading shopping and leisure destinations, making it an exceptional place to introduce our brand to both local guests and international visitors.

“Together with Alshaya Group, we look forward to delivering the distinctive Chipotle experience and establishing a strong long-term presence in the country.”

The debut adds another milestone to Chipotle’s ongoing expansion in collaboration with the group. Since 2024, Chipotle has launched 16 restaurants across the Middle East, including seven in the UAE, seven in Kuwait and two in Qatar. 

Jeff Kellen, president of the hospitality division at Alshaya Group, said the brand has since “surpassed all expectations to become one of the region’s most loved brands.”

“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 currently operates more than 4200 restaurants worldwide and expects to open 350 to 370 new locations this year under its ongoing ‘Recipe for Growth’ strategy, which includes a target of 7000 restaurants across the US and Canada.