Americana and Malak Al Tawouk
sign 75-year franchise agreement

Deal includes $21 million acquisition of UAE and KSA outlets

Americana Restaurants International, the Abu Dhabi-based quick-service restaurant (QSR) giant chaired by Mohamed Alabbar, has added Lebanon-based Malak Al Tawouk chain to its expanding portfolio.

The transaction gives Americana exclusive development and operating rights under a 75-year license across 13 markets spanning the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the Levant, North Africa and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Under the agreement, Americana will also take full control of Malak Al Tawouk franchise operations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia (KSA).

Malak Al Tawouk owners Joseph Saade, Alain Saade, and Joseph Ajoury said: “This partnership supports our ambition to expand thoughtfully across new markets while preserving the authentic experience and modern brand identity that our customers value.”

The move marks Americana’s first major foray into the Arabic QSR segment a category the company says aligns closely with its long-term growth strategy and customer demand in the region. Historically known for operating international fast-food powerhouses like KFC, Hardee’s, Pizza Hut and Krispy Kreme, Americana is broadening its footprint into homegrown, culturally resonant concepts.

Under the terms announced, Americana acquired 100 percent of existing franchise operations in the UAE and KSA, including seven stores in the UAE and three in KSA. The total transaction value is estimated at approximately $20.8 million, representing an acquisition multiple of about 12 times earnings. These acquired operations generate annualized revenue of roughly $21 million, with pre- EBITDA of $2.3 million.

Americana says the deal will be funded through internal cash reserves, preserving liquidity and balance-sheet strength.

Founded in Beirut in 1996, Malak Al Tawouk built its reputation around its signature grilled chicken (tawouk) sandwich and a simple, value-led menu. Over the past decade, it expanded outside Lebanon, establishing a presence across the GCC and internationally, with over 70 restaurants in key markets including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, France and Canada.

Americana’s leadership highlighted the brand’s strong cultural resonance, scalable model and operational simplicity as core reasons for the acquisition and its fit within Americana’s broader portfolio.

The Malak Al Tawouk deal comes amid a period of strong performance and expansion for Americana. The company reported 14 percent revenue growth in fiscal 2025 to about $2.5 billion, with net profit increasing 38 percent year-on-year. Its portfolio expanded with 216 gross new restaurant openings in 2025, bringing its network to around 2,749 outlets across 12 countries.