U.S-based donuts franchise company, Duck Donuts, known for serving Warm, Delicious and Made-to-Order donuts,  has officially opened its first international location in Dubai. The opening signifies a major milestone in the brand’s growth as it represents international expansion for the company in one of the world’s fastest growing and most dynamic markets. Owned by Mohammed Albaqami, the store is located at R02A Silverene Tower, in the Dubai Marina near Pier 7.

Upon entering the store, customers are welcomed with the aroma of warm, light vanilla cake donuts. Customers can create their own donut combination by choosing from a variety of coatings, toppings and drizzles, including traditional favorites such as chocolate icing with sprinkles and more adventurous creations such as maple icing with turkey bacon. The family-friendly stores offer a viewing area where children and adults alike can watch their donuts being made.

“This is a project my team and I have been working on for over a year, and despite all the challenges we have faced as a result of COVID-19, I am beyond excited to introduce the UAE to the Duck Donuts’ made-to-order concept,” said Albaqami. “Pairing fresh and delicious donuts with the unique experience of customizing and watching your donut being made from scratch to finish, is the perfect combination of food and fun for all ages. I am very happy to be bringing the brand 7,000 miles from its origins to offer the UAE a taste of the Outer Banks of North Carolina.”

To celebrate the opening, the first customer in line will win free donuts for a year. The 2,200 sq. ft. retail store reflects the franchise’s iconic beach theme and family-friendly atmosphere with limited indoor seating. In addition to donuts, the Dubai location also serves coffee, espresso, donut sundaes, unique OBX Donut Breakfast Sandwich, milkshakes, frozen beverages, select retail items and more.

The Duck Donuts Dubai location is the first store for Gold Peak Coffee Shop LLC, a local establishment focused on providing superior service through the creation of various types of handcrafted coffees and foods. In October 2019, Mr. Albaqami signed a master franchise agreement to open 25 units and begin sub-franchising throughout the United Arab Emirates over the next 10 years. Mr. Albaqami is an alumnus of UNCC’s Belk College of Business and has experience in both the public and government sectors with a concentration in financial counseling and analysis.