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Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, one of India's leading specialty coffee brands, has officially announced its expansion into the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region through a strategic partnership with Ambrosia Gulf. The move marks Blue Tokai’s first foray into the Middle East, with its debut café in the United Arab Emirates slated to open in the fourth quarter of 2025.
The collaboration designates Ambrosia Gulf as Blue Tokai’s master franchisee for the GCC, as the coffee brand looks to tap into a region increasingly drawn to premium, craft-focused food and beverage experiences.
“It’s an exciting time for Blue Tokai as we expand beyond India into a region that values traceability, craftsmanship, and community,” said Matt Chitranjan, Co-Founder and CEO of Blue Tokai. “Ambrosia Gulf brings valuable operational expertise and a deep understanding of local consumer preferences.”
Currently operating over 175 cafés in India and with an international presence in Tokyo, Blue Tokai aims to replicate its successful model in the GCC. The partnership also includes the launch of its fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) range and supply to the HoReCa (Hotels, Restaurants, Cafés) and Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) channels in the region.
Ambrosia Gulf, part of the Ambrosia Foods Group and backed by mid-market investment firm Pulsar Capital, brings experience in managing cross-border food brands. The group already operates Biryani By Kilo in the GCC and is preparing to launch Papa Johns in India later this year.
“We are thrilled to bring Blue Tokai’s incredible coffee story to the UAE,” said Vish Narain, Executive Chairman of Ambrosia Gulf. “This partnership reflects our commitment to building quality-driven, authentic brands that resonate with today’s discerning consumer.”
Blue Tokai’s entry into the GCC will spotlight its signature single-estate coffees, manual brewing methods, and an emphasis on transparency and sustainability — hallmarks of the brand’s café experience.
“Partnering with a group that already understands both Indian and GCC markets gives us the confidence to scale internationally while staying true to our core values,” added Shivam Shahi, COO of Blue Tokai.
The brand’s first UAE café will serve as a flagship location, anchoring its regional presence and laying the groundwork for broader expansion across the GCC.
