Pacsun Dubai is set to reshape the region’s youth fashion landscape as Majid Al Futtaim signs an exclusive partnership with the iconic U.S. lifestyle brand to bring its first international store to Mall of the Emirates in early 2026. The agreement marks Pacsun’s official entry into the Middle East and signals a major expansion plan to open up to 20 stores across key GCC markets over the next five years.
The California-born brand, founded in 1980, is widely recognised as a cultural force for Gen Z and Gen Alpha. With more than 350 stores across the United States, Pacsun has become a community-focused lifestyle label at the intersection of fashion, music, art, and sport. Its arrival in Dubai represents the next phase of its global influence, backed by a strategic collaboration with one of the region’s most established retail groups.
Announcing the partnership, Fahed Ghanim, Chief Executive Officer of Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle, said: “Pacsun’s arrival in Dubai signifies much more than a new brand entering our portfolio; it’s a celebration of youth culture and creativity. The GCC is home to a generation that defines global trends, and our partnership with Pacsun is a powerful step in how we continue to engage this audience through innovation, community, and authentic self-expression.”
He added that the partnership reflects Majid Al Futtaim’s long-term strategy of securing scalable, high-potential brand relationships that strengthen the Group’s position as the preferred partner for global names entering the Middle East.
A Fast-Growing Youth Culture Brand
Pacsun’s expansion into the Middle East follows exceptional growth in the U.S., where it has emerged as one of the fastest-rising youth lifestyle retailers. The brand has built a large digital presence through social commerce, creator partnerships, and purpose-driven storytelling, amassing more than 4.5 million followers on TikTok and Instagram.
Brieane Olson, Chief Executive Officer of Pacsun, said: “Expanding into the UAE, one of the world’s most dynamic and youthful regions, marks a pivotal step in Pacsun’s global journey, guided by a deep commitment to connecting with Gen Z and Gen Alpha, by listening to how they express themselves, connect, and influence culture.”
Partnering with Majid Al Futtaim allows us to bring that vision to life in a place that shares our values of creativity and mission to co-create our brand with our community. We are excited about the kind of shopping experience that we can create together.”
Insights from the “Pacsun Youth Report,” released earlier this year, reinforce the brand’s strategy. The research highlights how younger consumers are redefining retail through creativity, digital expression, and community values. Nearly 60 percent of Gen Z rely on TikTok for fashion trends, while 75 percent of Gen Alpha have purchased clothing specifically to create content. With about 60 percent of the GCC population under thirty, the region provides ideal conditions for Pacsun’s digitally led approach.
Regional Rollout And F1 Debut
The multi-year expansion plan includes flagship stores in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, supported by regional e-commerce platforms and immersive activations that bring Pacsun’s Californian aesthetic to life.
Pacsun will make its first official UAE appearance at the FORMULA 1 ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX 2025, where it will host an experiential retail pop-up showcasing an exclusive Abu Dhabi-inspired capsule collection created with Formula 1 and Pacsun. The limited-edition collection will also be available online at pacsun.me after the event.
As youth culture, digital behaviour, and lifestyle trends continue to shape consumer demand across the GCC, Pacsun’s entry into Dubai highlights the region’s growing influence as a global hub for next-generation retail and cultural expression.
