Comptoir opens first restaurant in Abu Dhabi

Comptoir Group Plc (AIM: COM), the owner and/or operator of Lebanese, Middle Eastern and North African inspired restaurants, is delighted to announce the opening of a new Shawa restaurant at Zayad International Airport in Abu Dhabi on 31st March 2024. Shawa is Comptoir's fast casual dining concept, providing a convenient food-to-go option, making it an excellent choice for passengers seeking a quick bite before their flight.

The restaurant is located in the airside departures area of Zayed International Airport. The second largest airport in the UAE, Zayed International receives an immensely high footfall of international visitors, serving over 80,000 customers daily and expects 27 million passengers this year. The 1,325sqft restaurant has capacity for 50 covers and is Comptoir's first restaurant in Abu Dhabi. Working in partnership with HMSHost, this is Comptoir's first franchised Shawa restaurant and third franchised restaurant in the region, with Comptoir Libanais restaurants in Dubai and Doha airports.

Fresh, healthy and with something for everyone, Shawa is the perfect pre-flight meal. The restaurant will sell authentic Lebanese lamb and chicken shawarma wraps and platters as well as offering vegan and vegetarian plates with falafel and halloumi. The menu will also encompass a breakfast range of pastries, sandwiches and shakshuka dishes.

Marco Cuglianich, Director at HMSHost, commented: "We are immensely proud of our ongoing partnership, which has culminated in sharing the soul of Shawa's unique flavours and hospitality at Zayed International Airport. This new outlet represents a seamless fusion of expertise and is a testament to our collective dedication to deliver unparalleled dining experiences. We eagerly anticipate welcoming guests and sharing our passion for exceptional food."

Nick Ayerst, CEO, added "We have long recognised Abu Dhabi's importance as an international air hub and are delighted to share Shawa's offering with international travellers. Our ongoing successful collaboration with HMSHost is delivering well-loved authentic Middle Eastern food and culture to customers around across the UK, Netherlands and Middle East."