Emirates Franchise, an affiliate of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has announced it will host a dedicated UAE Pavilion at the 23rd Global Franchise and Distributorship Expo in Istanbul. The event, taking place from October 16-19, 2025, will serve as a major platform to showcase the UAE’s dynamic franchise ecosystem to an international audience and strengthen the global presence of Emirati brands.
A Coordinated Push For Global Reach
The national pavilion represents a coordinated institutional effort to boost the franchising sector’s international reach. It will feature 14 private-sector companies alongside various UAE chambers of commerce and key entrepreneurship support organizations, including the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development. This collaborative initiative underscores the UAE’s strategic focus on expanding business opportunities for local enterprises in promising global markets.
Driving Economic Growth Through Franchising
The UAE’s franchise industry has become a significant contributor to the national economy, generating annual revenues exceeding AED 100 billion and growing at an average rate of nearly 15%. The sector currently includes more than 600 franchise companies and over 2,000 franchised brands operating within the country.
“Participation in this international exhibition marks a significant step in reinforcing the UAE’s status as a leading destination within the global franchising sector,” stated Her Excellency Noor Al Tamimi, President of the Emirates Franchise. “With the backing of the Abu Dhabi Chamber, the Association remains committed to advancing franchising as an integrated economic model, one that creates employment opportunities, drives innovation, and empowers entrepreneurs.”
Targeting The Turkish Market
The decision to participate in the “Be My Franchise 2025” expo in Istanbul is a strategic move to strengthen the Emirati footprint in Turkey. While around 600 Emirati companies operate in Turkey across sectors like finance and energy, their presence in the franchising domain remains limited. This contrasts with the strong presence of Turkish brands in the UAE, particularly in fashion, retail, and food and beverage.
The Turkish franchise sector itself presents a substantial opportunity, with a market valuation of nearly $50 billion in 2023 and projections to exceed $55 billion in 2024. By establishing a presence at the expo, Emirates Franchise aims to unlock access to this promising market, foster partnerships, and promote Emirati excellence to a global audience of investors and industry professionals.
About Emirates Franchise
Emirates Franchise is an affiliate of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The association is dedicated to advancing and empowering the franchise model within the UAE’s economy. Its core mission is to support the expansion of the national franchise industry, position Emirati brands on the global stage, and promote a culture of franchising to drive innovation and economic diversification.
Source: Zawya
