Afrikana: A Bold New Chapter in African Dining Comes to the GCC

Introduction

When Afrikana first opened its doors in Birmingham in 2017, it was more than a restaurant — it was a movement. A celebration of African heritage through flavour, art, music, and hospitality. In just a few short years, the brand has grown from a single site to 18 vibrant locations across the UK, with five more openings slated for Q3 2025. Now, Afrikana is ready to bring its unique experience to the Gulf — and Gulf Franchise Group is proud to lead the charge.

More Than Just Peri Chicken

At the heart of the Afrikana Peri Kitchen & Grill franchise is a commitment to authenticity and expression. The menu showcases African-inspired grilled meats, peri-peri chicken, jollof rice, and more, all served with a contemporary twist. But food is only part of the story. Each restaurant is carefully designed to offer a multisensory experience — from bold interior décor to curated music playlists and original art that pays homage to Africa’s diverse cultures.

Omair Ali, Managing Director of City Restaurant Group and the visionary behind Afrikana, says it best: "Afrikana is about energy, flavour, and community. Every detail is chosen to tell a story and create a space where people feel welcomed, celebrated, and inspired."

Wembley and Beyond

One of the brand’s most high-profile openings to date was in Wembley, London — a bustling hub for events, shopping, and nightlife. The launch was not only a culinary event but a community celebration, attended by influencers, entrepreneurs, and entertainment figures. With each new venue, Afrikana brings its unmistakable energy and growing fanbase along for the ride.

Franchising with Purpose

Afrikana’s expansion into the GCC is a strategic step, driven by a clear vision: to find committed franchise partners who can bring the brand to life in new markets while maintaining its core values. The ideal franchisee is an experienced F&B operator with market insight, access to quality real estate, and the ability to scale operations regionally.

"Wembley is just the beginning of Afrikana’s next chapter. Our international expansion plan is focused on strategic growth across the GCC, targeting key markets in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. We aim to launch 10–15 Afrikana outlets in the next 24 months, through partnerships with premier local operators. Each location will faithfully represent our brand’s essence, authentic cuisine, immersive culture, and exceptional service, ensuring that Afrikana becomes the premier destination for African-inspired dining in the region." says Ali.

For GFG, this partnership represents the best of what franchising can achieve — combining cultural relevance with operational excellence, and growth with integrity.

Conclusion

Afrikana is not just entering the GCC — it is arriving with purpose, passion, and a proven track record of success. With a concept that resonates across cultures and communities, the opportunity is clear: bring the Afrikana experience to your city and become part of a powerful culinary journey that is only just beginning.