John Hadden

As the CEO of one of the world’s leading brand franchise operators, responsible for driving the group’s overall performance, strategic growth and continued expansion across MENA, Türkiye and Europe.

Under Hadden’s leadership, Alshaya Group has continued to strengthen its position as a global franchise leader, managing a diverse portfolio of internationally recognised brands across retail, hospitality, food and beverage, and digital commerce. The group partners with leading global names including Starbucks, H&M, Victoria’s Secret, American Eagle Outfitters, Foot Locker, Shake Shack, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Charlotte Tilbury and Bath & Body Works.

During 2025, Hadden led Alshaya Group through a period of strong performance, customer growth and portfolio expansion, including the launch of major new franchise partnerships such as Primark, Ulta Beauty and Chipotle Mexican Grill.

In 2026, Hadden has continued to accelerate Alshaya Group’s strategic growth agenda. On April 9, Alshaya expanded its Primark presence in partnership with Majid Al Futtaim through the opening of Primark at City Centre Mirdif, followed by the opening of the third Dubai location at Mall of the Emirates, featuring more than 36,000 square feet of retail space and creating over 400 employment opportunities.

On June 16, Alshaya announced a strategic partnership with Deliveroo Middle East, bringing more than 10 Alshaya brands across beauty, home and kids categories to customers in the UAE and Kuwait.

In May, Hadden also led the strategic collaboration between Alshaya’s Aura loyalty programme and Hilton’s Hilton Honors programme, enhancing customer engagement through integrated rewards and travel benefits across key GCC markets.