Harvey Nicks to open in Qatar

Harvey Nichols has signed a licence agreement with the Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Group to develop the 80,000 sq ft store in Doha.

The new store promises “an exclusive edit” of fashion, beauty, childrenswear, homeware and a range of hospitality services.

With significant oil and gas revenues, Qatar is an attractive market for high-end Western retailers. The former British protectorate has one of the highest levels of disposable income in the world and is ranked number one in gross domestic product per capita.

Stacey Cartwright, chief executive of Harvey Nichols, said: “Doha is an exciting market for Harvey Nichols due to the significant growth we are seeing in the country.

“Research tells us that our brand translates well in Qatar as well as with the Qatari customers when they shop in our home market.

“We look forward to offering Qataris the best shopping and dining experience, when we open our doors for business.”

The store will be Harvey Nichols’ eighth venture outside the UK. Other international locations include Hong Kong, Dubai, Riyadh, Turkey and Kuwait.

Its Qatari partner operates boutiques for luxury brands including Hermes, Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney and Anya Hindmarch.

Hisham S Al Mana, chairman and managing director, said: “Harvey Nichols will add a great shopping and dining experience to Qataris and expats alike in Qatar. We truly believe in the growth of our beloved country; Qatar is paving the way to becoming the center of attraction in the Gulf region.”

The Harvey Nichols store in Leeds is said to be the group’s best-performing by square foot.

The group is owned by Hong Kong-listed Dickson Concepts.