Hamleys opens first store in Kuwait

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Hamleys has opened its first store in Kuwait, marking its ninth store opening within the Gulf Cooperation Council.

The toy retailer opened the 1170 sq m store in Kuwait’s The Avenues mall, which it describes as the country’s “largest and most prestigious lifestyle destination.”

Hamley’s latest store has opened as part of its franchise partnership with Middle East Retail Group, following successful store openings in the UAE and Qatar.

Barbie Hamleys

Source: Hamleys

Barbie is among over 100 toy brands featured at the new Hamleys store

The new store features live demonstrations, immersive experience zones and visits from Hamleys characters Hamley and Hattie Bear, the toy soldier, circus ringmaster, and rag doll.

Over 10,000 toys from over 100 brands are on sale at the new locations, with activations from Play-Doh and Barbie as well as new additions including an RC racetrack and a childrens’ salon called The Boutique, where they can have their nails done and create their own accessories.

Hamleys Global chief executive Sumeet Yadav said: “We’ve been eager to open in Kuwait for quite some time, and The Avenues marks a significant and exciting moment in our journey to spread joy and wonder across the region. This store brings with it not just our iconic British heritage but a contagious spirit of fun, laughter, and smiles for everyone, young and old.

“The response to Hamleys’ arrival in new markets has always been tremendous, and we’re confident that Kuwait City, with its world-class mall, will be no exception. As we continue to expand across the GCC, with locations in premier, ‘The Avenues’ is the perfect stage for us to connect with more families and continue our mission to bring the magic of play to children everywhere.”

Middle East Retail Company Nabil Daud said: “Bringing Hamleys to Kuwait is an honour – not just as a franchisee, but as someone who’s come to appreciate how deeply loved this brand already is here.

“So many Kuwaiti families have grown up with Hamleys, visited it abroad, and hold memories that go back generations. This store belongs to them. Our role is simply to bring that magic closer to home – with all the wonder, laughter, and play that Hamleys is known for.”