Emirates Franchise Association Leads UAE’s Global Expansion at Istanbul Expo
Seventy-eight Emirati entrepreneurs and brands will showcase the nation's thriving franchise ecosystem at the prestigious Turkish franchise exposition, strengthening international business ties and opening pathways to global investment.
The Emirates Franchise Association, operating under the stewardship of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, will orchestrate the United Arab Emirates’ participation in the 24th edition of Istanbul’s esteemed franchise exposition, Bayim Olur musun?, from 15 to 18 October 2026. This significant undertaking will present a comprehensive UAE pavilion comprising 78 distinguished participants, encompassing national brands of considerable repute, enterprising small and medium-sized enterprises, innovative start-ups and ambitious entrepreneurs.
The assembled delegation will utilise this prominent platform to explore transformative investment and expansion opportunities within the franchise and entrepreneurial sectors. Through this carefully curated presentation, participants will demonstrate the considerable dynamism and competitive prowess of the Emirates’ franchise ecosystem, illuminating the exceptional capabilities of Emirati brands and facilitating meaningful connections with discerning investors, established markets and strategic partners throughout the world.
Ali Mohammad Al Marzooqi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Chamber and Chairman of the Emirates Franchise Association, articulated the profound significance of this endeavour: “Franchising represents a vital instrument in diversifying our national economy. It creates pathways for business expansion, attracts substantial investment capital and generates employment of exceptional quality, whilst enabling Emirati brands to flourish with remarkable velocity through sustainable, scalable operational models.”
He elaborated further on the deepening commercial relationship between the Emirates and Türkiye, noting that Turkish companies registered in Abu Dhabi have increased by 3% to 299 in 2026, whilst partnerships involving Turkish entities have risen by 23% to 381. Wholesale and retail commerce, construction, and professional and scientific endeavours dominate these commercial activities, alongside hospitality and food service sectors.
The Bayim Olur musun? exposition, recognised as one of the region’s preeminent franchise events, attracts an impressive assembly of brands, investors, entrepreneurs and specialists. The forthcoming 2026 edition will feature more than 200 brands and anticipates welcoming in excess of 30,000 visitors and investors from both local and international spheres.
The UAE’s representation at this distinguished venue reflects the Emirates Franchise Association’s steadfast commitment to elevating the profile of national brands and entrepreneurs on the world stage. The dedicated UAE pavilion will present these enterprises comprehensively, highlighting their competitive advantages and demonstrating the abundant opportunities within the Emirates for developing sophisticated franchise models and expanding into emerging markets through strategic partnerships and investment.
The franchise sector contributes more than AED 100 million annually to the nation’s gross domestic product and demonstrates consistent annual expansion of approximately 15%. Enhanced governmental systems and the integration of artificial intelligence have substantially streamlined the processes of franchise acquisition and outlet establishment, further catalysing sector growth.
Source: WAM