Papa Johns and PJP Investments Target 400+ Middle East Restaurants by 2036, Add Iraq

The Deal

Papa Johns and its Dubai-headquartered franchise partner PJP Investments Group signed a ten-year extension to their development agreement, Caterer Middle East reported on 2 November 2026.

Key Facts

• Target: Grow from 167 to more than 400 restaurants across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Iraq by 2036.

• New market: Iraq, with first restaurants planned for spring 2027 and 25 locations by 2035.

• Rights: PJP's exclusive rights run to the end of 2036.

• India link: PJP also operates in India through a joint venture.

Why It Matters

The extension shows how long-term master franchise partners drive multi-country growth for global QSR brands.

Source: Caterer Middle East, 2 Nov 2026