Shawarma Hlayel

About Shawarma Hlayel

Saudi Arabian shawarma brand Shawarma Hlayel was founded in 2014, opening its first branch in Al Khobar, and following that with six more sites in the period leading up to the covid pandemic. In the five years following covid, Shawarma Hlayel added nine more across Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Kuwait, and will open four more this year - two in Saudi Arabia and two in Qatar. Shawarma Hlayel was among the exhibitors at the International Franchise Show at London’s ExCel in April 2026, as it seeks partners to support its growth plans.

The company said: “Founded in Saudi Arabia, Shawarma Hlayel is a leading fast-casual restaurant brand specialising in authentic Middle Eastern shawarma with a modern twist. With a growing fan base and a strong presence across multiple cities, Shawarma Hlayel has become a beloved destination for shawarma lovers seeking premium ingredients, freshly prepared meals, and consistent excellence. After its successful expansion across the Gulf countries, Hlayel now aims to bring its signature Saudi shawarma experience to global markets, offering a true taste of Arabia through a modern and innovative concept.”

Why franchise with Shawarma Hlayel

• ✓The initial franchise fee for Shawrma Hlayel ranges between 100,000 and 150,000 SAR, depending on the location and specific franchise agreement. This fee grants franchisees access to the brand’s trademark, training and ongoing support. This investment covers everything from equipment and fit-out costs to initial inventory and working capital. The capital payback period is typically aligned with industry standards, offering a good return on investment over time.
• ✓One of the key advantages of franchising with Shawrma Hlayel is the comprehensive support provided to franchisees. The brand offers a 30-day training programme, designed to equip franchisees with the skills and knowledge needed to run a successful franchise. This training covers all aspects of the business, from operations to customer service. In addition to the initial training, Shawrma Hlayel provides ongoing support to help franchisees navigate challenges and capitalise on opportunities.
• ✓Franchisees are required to pay a monthly royalty fee of 5%, which contributes to the ongoing development and support of the franchise network. Additionally, a 1% marketing fee is used to fund national and regional advertising campaigns. The franchise agreement for Shawrma Hlayel typically spans five years, with options for renewal based on performance and compliance with the brand’s standards.
• ✓The company said: “Back in 2014, we set out to build a restaurant system known for consistent quality and unified preparation. We aimed to create a unique meat shawarma, fries and beverages with a distinct taste. We chose a different path – bringing franchisees and suppliers into our vision. First and foremost, we advocated adherence to the system approach. So, while some of Hlayel menu items were suggested by franchisees and partners, the Hlayel operating system to follow the core principles of quality, service, cleanliness and value.”