MAKKAH. Lulu, a prominent retail chain in the Middle East, has strengthened its presence in Saudi Arabia with the opening of a new hypermarket in Makkah. This development marks a key milestone in the company’s aggressive expansion strategy across the Kingdom and the broader GCC region. Strategically located on Abdullah Areef Street in the Al Rusayfah District, the new store underscores Lulu’s alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aimed at economic diversification and growth, while enhancing its retail network in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
The Al Rusayfah hypermarket, covering a substantial built-up area of 200,000 square feet, is designed to cater to a wide range of customer needs with daily essentials, fresh produce, and departmental goods. A notable feature is its 72-square-meter dining area, which adds to the store’s appeal by offering a convenient shopping and dining experience. The grand opening was attended by key figures including Abdullah Hanif, Secretary General of the Makkah Chamber, Fahd Abdulrahman Al-Mutaz, Mayor of Rusayfah, and Lulu’s Executive Director, Ashraf Ali M.A., highlighting its significance to the local economy.
Lulu’s expansion plans extend far beyond this single store. Ashraf Ali emphasized the company’s ambitious roadmap: “We continue to expand regionally in Saudi Arabia, and the new store in Al Rusayfah generates more employment opportunities and strengthens the local economy. We will open more than 45 new stores across the GCC within three years.” This includes three additional hypermarkets planned for Madinah, further solidifying Lulu’s commitment to serving the holy cities.
Enhancing Digital Shopping Experience
A key element of Lulu’s business strategy is its focus on digital transformation. The company is investing in technology to enhance both its online and in-store customer experiences, positioning itself as a forward-thinking leader in the retail sector. This initiative complements its physical expansion, ensuring it meets evolving consumer demands in a competitive market.
Adding to its growth in Makkah, Lulu is set to launch a value-added shop, LOT, in the same area in the near future. This move signals the company’s intent to diversify its offerings and deepen its market penetration in the region. Together, these efforts reflect Lulu’s broader mission to deliver world-class shopping experiences while contributing to economic development across Saudi Arabia and the GCC.
The inauguration event also saw the presence of senior Lulu executives, including Shehim Mohammed, Director of Lulu KSA, Rafeek Mohammed Ali, Business Development Director of Lulu KSA, and Noushad M.A., Regional Director of Lulu KSA Western Region, reinforcing the company’s focus on this strategic expansion.