Cupbop in the UAE. Credit: Cupbop / PRNewswire.

US-based Korean BBQ fast-casual restaurant brand Cupbop has announced its expansion into the United Arab Emirates (UAE) market through a development agreement with RMAL Hospitality.

The partnership aims to establish ten Cupbop locations across the UAE in the first half of 2025.

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RMAL Hospitality’s portfolio, which includes international brands such as Wagamama and Marco Pierre White, will lead Cupbop’s entry into the region.

CEO Elias Madbak said: “At RMAL Hospitality, we are constantly on the hunt for groundbreaking ideas and innovative concepts that have the power to cut through the noise and deliver something remarkable to the market.

“The phenomenal success and rapid growth of Cupbop in diverse markets are testaments to their extraordinary appeal. We are thrilled to partner with them to bring their unique and vibrant cuisine to the Emirates.”

Cupbop was established by Junghun Song in 2013 as a food truck in Salt Lake City, Utah and has since grown to 57 locations in the US and more than 200 in Indonesia.

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The brand’s menu features Korean BBQ classics and noodles, and includes gluten-free and vegetarian options.

As Cupbop prepares for its Middle Eastern venture, the brand is poised to continue its international expansion, building on its success in the US and Indonesia.

Cupbop chief operating officer Dok Kwon said: “We are thrilled to bring Cupbop to the Emirates as the next step in our expansion journey.

“Our mission is to share Korean culture and cuisine with as many communities as possible. We have seen incredible reception from both our US and Indonesian locations, and look forward to building a strong presence in the UAE.”