Rasha Al Dhanhani’s journey with PappaRoti is a masterclass in entrepreneurial vision. In 2009, she acquired the Malaysian coffee bun brand and introduced it to Dubai through a small mall kiosk. What started as a single location quickly became a movement, blending a unique product with a welcoming café experience that resonated with customers across cultures.
Under her leadership, PappaRoti expanded far beyond the UAE. Today, the brand boasts over 400 outlets across the Middle East, Asia, North America, and Europe. This global growth did not happen overnight—it came from careful market analysis, brand consistency, and a willingness to adapt to regional tastes without losing the brand’s signature identity.
Several factors shaped Rasha’s success with PappaRoti. Firstly, she recognized the power of experiential dining, ensuring every location offered more than coffee—it provided a moment of indulgence. Secondly, she nurtured strong franchise relationships, creating a scalable model that allowed the brand to enter diverse markets smoothly. Finally, she maintained a laser focus on quality, ensuring the famous coffee buns tasted just as good in Toronto as they did in Dubai.
Rasha’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. She has been spotlighted by Forbes Middle East as one of the region’s top businesswomen and received the UAE Entrepreneur of the Year Award. These honors reflect her influence as both a brand leader and a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Beyond running an international brand, Rasha is an advocate for women in business. She often shares her journey to inspire others, proving that big dreams can be built from small beginnings. Her story serves as a reminder that with persistence, vision, and a strong brand strategy, a humble kiosk can indeed become a global coffee empire.
Rasha Al Dhanhani’s rise with PappaRoti is a powerful example of strategic entrepreneurship. From her first coffee bun in Dubai to hundreds of outlets worldwide, she has redefined what it means to grow a brand with passion and precision. For anyone seeking proof that innovation paired with commitment can achieve global success, her journey delivers it.
Q1: When did Rasha Al Dhanhani acquire PappaRoti?
A1: She acquired the Malaysian brand in 2009.
Q2: How many PappaRoti outlets are there worldwide?
A2: There are over 400 outlets across multiple continents.
Q3: What makes PappaRoti unique?
A3: Its signature coffee buns paired with premium coffee create a memorable café experience.
Q4: Has Rasha Al Dhanhani received any major awards?
A4: Yes, including the UAE Entrepreneur of the Year Award and recognition from Forbes Middle East.
