Brisbane-based boxing franchise UBX has announced its eighth international expansion with plans to open 18 gyms in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) adding to its existing network of over 100 gyms around the world, while continuing to participate in its recently launched 'Boxing is for Everyone' campaign in partnership with Adidas.
The company has appointed Mohsan Bari as master franchisor for UBX UAE, with the initial locations secured in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
“The Middle East has become a hotspot for combat sports in recent years and the UAE's enthusiasm for boxing is the perfect next step for UBX as it transforms interest in the sport into participation,” said Tim West, co-founder and managing director of UBX.
“We offer a unique combination of boxing and strength training to a market that truly values fitness and innovation, and I have no doubt that UBX will become a staple on the UAE fitness scene,” said West, a two-time UAE Fitness Championship winner. Brisbane Young Entrepreneur Awards Winner in the fitness category.
This latest expansion takes the brand's signed store count to over 600, adding to existing markets in Australia, New Zealand and Singapore, following successful expansion into Japan, the US, UK and Ireland over the past year.
In April, the group UK and Ireland The master franchise team is opening its seventh store in the market, with three more stores expected to open and begin pre-sales by the end of the year.
Just a month ago, in March, four more facilities were announced in Japan, bringing the number of UBX gyms in the market to seven. Officially announced entries It opened in February last year, with the first three stores opening across Tokyo in September.
The brand opened its first U.S. store in Larchmont, New York, in June of last year, and within three months of opening, it had welcomed more than 200 members and over 2,400 visitors.
Four-time world champion boxer and co-founder of UBX, Danny Green, said he is confident that UBX will thrive in the UAE market based on growing demand and the proven success of the model.
“The love for boxing in the UAE is undeniable and I can't wait for UBX to be part of it,” he said.
“The energy and enthusiasm of the area is what makes our concept successful. Boxing is not just physical training; it's about mental strength and building community.”
Mohsan Bari, Master Franchisor for the UAE, said he was honoured to lead UBX's expansion into the region.
“Given the region's vibrant fitness community and the growing popularity of martial arts, now is the perfect time for UBX to enter the market,” he said.
