The 10-year development agreement with PJP Investments Group adds Iraq to the partnership, with the first restaurants planned for 2027.
Papa Johns has extended its exclusive development agreement with regional franchise partner PJP Investments Group for another 10 years, setting a target of operating more than 400 restaurants across four Middle Eastern markets by the end of 2036.
The renewed agreement will see the pizza chain expand its presence in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Iraq, with Iraq formally added to PJP’s development territory. The partnership aims to grow the combined restaurant network from its current 167 locations to more than 400 over the next decade.
As part of the expansion programme, Papa Johns plans to enter Iraq in spring 2027, with PJP targeting 25 restaurants in the country by 2035. The move will extend the operator’s regional footprint beyond its established businesses in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Jordan.
The agreement builds on a partnership spanning more than 20 years. PJP has been responsible for developing and operating Papa Johns restaurants across the region, with its expansion strategy centred on building a multi-market franchise network.
PJP Investments Group is wholly owned by Dubai-based private equity firm Levant Capital, which initially invested in the business in 2017 before acquiring full ownership in 2019. The operator holds franchise licences from Papa Johns International for the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Iraq and India.
Commenting on the extended partnership, Todd Penegor, President and CEO of Papa Johns International, said the company’s international franchise model relies on strong local partners with the expertise and capabilities to develop the brand in their respective markets. He recognised PJP’s contribution to the brand’s regional growth and said the renewed agreement reflected both companies’ commitment to long-term expansion.
Dr Tapan Vaidya, Group CEO of PJP Investments Group, said the partnership of more than two decades had established a strong platform for international growth. He added that the new agreement reflected a shared vision for the coming years, supported by continued investment in operations and the ability to respond to changing consumer behaviour and developments in the restaurant industry.
Beyond the Middle East, PJP also operates Papa Johns’ franchise business in India through a joint venture. The company has plans to develop approximately 650 restaurants in India by 2034, making the country another significant growth market for the partnership.
The expansion strategy also builds on PJP’s investment in digital capabilities and localised product development. The operator has introduced market-specific digital platforms, including mobile ordering, e-commerce and loyalty programmes, alongside locally adapted menu innovations such as Shawarma Pizza and Croissant Pizza.
For Papa Johns, the agreement reinforces the importance of experienced regional franchise operators in driving international development. The company operated 5,978 restaurants across 51 countries and territories as of June 28, 2026, including 5,509 franchised locations. Its international growth strategy continues to rely on development agreements and franchise partnerships to expand its global network.
