What: Chalhoub Group marks its 70th anniversary by highlighting its evolution from a single boutique in Damascus to a leading luxury retail empire in the Middle East.

Why it is important: This milestone reflects how family leadership and strategic partnerships have driven sustained growth and innovation in Middle Eastern luxury retail.

Chalhoub Group’s 70th anniversary serves as a testament to its remarkable transformation from modest beginnings in Damascus to becoming the Middle East’s foremost luxury retail group. The company’s journey has been shaped by resilience, adaptability, and a series of strategic relocations in response to regional upheavals, ultimately establishing Dubai as its permanent base. Key to its ascent has been the seamless transition of leadership across three generations, each bringing renewed vision and energy. The group’s ability to forge enduring partnerships with global luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Sephora has not only expanded its portfolio but also redefined the region’s retail landscape. Innovation has remained central, with the launch of experiential retail concepts and proprietary brands, ensuring continued relevance amid evolving consumer expectations. As the group enters a new era under Michael Chalhoub, its commitment to digital transformation and local market engagement positions it to maintain its leadership in a dynamic and competitive sector.

IADS Notes: The Chalhoub Group’s evolution mirrors the broader rise of the Middle East as a luxury retail hub, with recent leadership transitions and digital innovation accelerating growth, particularly in Saudi Arabia and through omnichannel strategies. The group’s focus on quality, customer experience, and strategic partnerships, as highlighted in WWD (October 2025, May 2025), BoF (May 2025), RLC (September 2025), and Emirates Woman (March 2025), underscores its resilience and ability to adapt to both market opportunities and challenges.

Chalhoub Group at 70: Timeline

Chalhoub Group: A Luxury Dynasty, 70 Years in the Making