Americana Restaurants Expands Regional Presence with 75-Year Exclusive License for 'Malak Al Tawouk' and Full Franchise Acquisition in UAE and Saudi Arabia

Dubai | EcoPulse24

Americana Restaurants International PLC announced the execution of two integrated strategic deals to accelerate its regional expansion and diversify its brand portfolio. The company secured an exclusive 75-year license to develop and operate the 'Malak Al Tawouk' brand in the Middle East, North Africa, and Central Asia, and acquired all existing franchise rights in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

The licensing agreement grants Americana exclusive development and operational rights for 'Malak Al Tawouk' across 13 markets, including the GCC, Levant, North Africa, and Central Asia. The company signed share purchase agreements to acquire 100% of the brand's current franchises in the UAE (7 restaurants) and Saudi Arabia (3 restaurants).

Current Malak Al Tawouk franchises generate annual revenues of approximately $21.1 million, with EBITDA of $2.3 million and net profit of about $1.7 million. The acquisition is valued at $20.8 million and will be funded from Americana’s internal cash reserves.

Americana stated that completion of the transaction is subject to regulatory and third-party approvals, with closing expected by the end of February 2026. After closing, Americana will integrate operations and accelerate regional expansion plans for the brand.

Malak Al Tawouk, founded in Beirut in 1996, is a family-run fast-casual brand known for its signature chicken sandwiches. The brand currently operates over 45 outlets in Lebanon and 19 across the region, with additional international presence in France and Canada, providing a scalable platform for Americana’s multi-brand model.

Financial data for the UAE franchise shows revenue growth from AED 26.0 million in 2022 to AED 31.17 million in 2023 and AED 40.99 million in 2024, reflecting operational momentum prior to Americana’s acquisition. The Saudi franchise recorded its first revenues in 2025, with no historical data available.

In the market, Americana’s share price declined 0.61% to SAR 1.63, with a trading value of SAR 22.48 million and a volume of 13.7 million shares during the session.

EcoPulse24 Analysis:
This transaction marks a strategic move for Americana Restaurants, enabling structured entry into the fast-growing regional Arabic fast-casual sector through a well-established brand. Combining a long-term license with direct acquisition of existing franchises reduces initial expansion risks and provides immediate cash flows. The deal enhances Americana’s operational integration and growth potential, particularly as it is funded internally without additional financing pressures.