Arada invests US$16.3M in Brooki Bakehouse UAE expansion
The UAE expansion represents a significant milestone for the brand, which has until now operated exclusively in Australia.
UAE – Arada has invested AED60 million (US$16.3M) in Australian dessert brand Brooki Bakehouse, marking the bakery’s first major external funding and enabling its international debut in the United Arab Emirates.
Arada’s hospitality and entertainment division will roll out pop-up locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain from late November 2025, followed by two flagship stores in Q1 2026.
The flagship outlets are expected to showcase Brooki’s signature desserts, including its cult-favorite cookies and cakes, in a premium setting tailored to UAE tastes.
The move marks Brooki’s first international expansion, underscoring the UAE’s growing reputation as a hub for global food and beverage brands.
Founded in 2022 by Brooke Bellamy, Brooki Bakehouse began as a 41-square-meter outlet in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley, quickly gaining fame for its signature cookies, celebration cakes, and pink aesthetic.
The brand now boasts over 4 million social media fans and five Australian locations, including a new store at Sydney Airport.
Its international tease came at an Abu Dhabi food festival less than a year ago, where queues stretched for more than 2 hours for its treats.
The UAE expansion represents a significant milestone for the brand, which has until now operated exclusively in Australia.
The collaboration with Arada provides Brooki with the financial backing and local expertise needed to navigate the competitive Middle Eastern food and beverage market.
Arada Group CEO Ahmed Alkhoshaibi emphasized the investment’s role in crafting lifestyle experiences blending culture, food, and design, building on Arada’s success with Australian brands.
Funds will strengthen Brooki’s Australian base while targeting the UAE and UK markets where Arada operates, avoiding franchising in favor of hands-on growth.
This aligns with Arada’s diversification beyond real estate, following its 2024 Australian residential entry and 2025 UK expansion.
The move taps the UAE’s appetite for viral, experiential food and beverage concepts amid deepening UAE-Australia ties.
By introducing Brooki, Arada aims to tap into the UAE’s thriving café culture and growing demand for artisanal desserts.
Pop-ups will introduce Brooki’s treats to diverse audiences, paving the way for permanent stores and job creation.
Bellamy highlighted Arada’s community-building expertise as ideal for scaling Brooki globally.
Earlier this year, Arada entered a AED100 million (US$27.23M) joint venture agreement with Tashas Group to open a series of new restaurant locations across the GCC.
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