London-born Modern Coffee brand WatchHouse is expanding its international footprint with the launch of its first UAE location this October. Recognised for its architecturally designed Houses and elevated approach to hospitality, WatchHouse now operates over 20 sites across the UK and two in the United States. This new opening represents the brand’s first international franchise and a milestone in its global growth journey.
The expansion comes through a master franchise partnership with Big Belly Hospitality, a leading UAE-based food and beverage operator. The collaboration will begin with a six-month espresso-led residency at Marsa Boulevard — a seasonal waterfront development on Dubai Creek — followed by four additional Houses set to open across the UAE in 2026.
Developed in collaboration with designer Kirill Borisov, the creative mind behind WatchHouse Canary Wharf and Hanover in London, the new space draws inspiration from the Creek’s trading heritage and traditional Emirati architecture. Earth-toned finishes and wind tower-inspired forms pay homage to barjeel design, blending regional influences with the brand’s hallmark of clean, functional modernism.
Roland Horne, CEO and Founder of WatchHouse, said: “Dubai has always been a city that marries ambition with taste, heritage with innovation, making it a natural step in our ambition to bring WatchHouse to a truly global audience. From the material palette to the menu, this House is a love letter to what we do best, designed for a region that’s not just ready for Modern Coffee, but hungry for it.”
Damon Conn, Growth and Business Development Director at WatchHouse, added: “We’ve always believed WatchHouse could travel, but only if it was done in a way that stayed true to the brand’s core beliefs. In Big Belly Hospitality, we’ve found a partner who truly shares our vision and values. This partnership is the result of months of collaboration and a shared ambition to bring Modern Coffee to life with purpose and precision. It’s the start of something meaningful.”
Pallav Patel, Managing Founder at Big Belly Hospitality, said: “WatchHouse brings something truly different to the UAE: a thoughtful, design-led approach to coffee that feels both global and grounded. From the first conversation, we saw the potential to grow something remarkable here, and this launch is just the beginning.”
Following the debut at Marsa Boulevard, the franchise will expand to new locations at Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club and Saadiyat Grove in early 2026, alongside a permanent House in Dubai’s DIFC. A further UAE location has also been confirmed and will be announced later this year.
The UAE launch builds upon WatchHouse’s growing international presence, following its successful entry into the US market with Houses in New York City on 5th Avenue and within the iconic Chrysler Building.