Middle East's first 7-Eleven opens in Dubai

The classic American convenience store 7-Eleven is continuing its lightning-fast global expansion with a new store in Dubai, marking the chain’s first venture in the Middle East.

The store opened Oct. 6 with a ribbon-cutting, VIP attendees and celebratory dinner for suppliers, contractors and other guests. The new location is at Bay Square near downtown Dubai and close to the world's tallest building – the Burj Khalifa Tower.

The recently opened franchise is an investment from Seven Emirates Investment LLC, which plans to bring a number of retail outlets to the UAE.

The new 2,000-square-foot store carries some 2,500 products. Part of 7-Eleven’s international success comes from the company’s ability to offer classic products that are typical of the convenience store’s franchises, as well as a selection of products special to that part of the world.

"We worked closely with Seven Emirates… to ensure we are providing the neighborhood with the products they expect from 7-Eleven as well as fresh foods typically consumed there," Chris Tanco, 7-Eleven Executive Vice President, said. "Guests to this store can find 7-Eleven favorites like Slurpee and Big Gulp beverages, fresh foods and high-quality, value-priced 7-Select snacks.”

The prepared fresh-daily foods include numerous local tastes including Arabian, Indian and Asian lunchbox meals like chicken biryani and rice balls. For on-the-go snacks, the store carries samosas, falafel wraps, hummus, and grab-and-go salads. Orange date muffins and Umm Ali are among the pastry and dessert selections.

Reports are that 7-Eleven's iconic Slurpee drinks are already a hit with Dubai locals.