Milan's Princi bakery arrives at Dubai Mall with artisanal breads and all-day Italian dining

Milan's artisanal bakery Princi debuts at Dubai Mall through Alshaya partnership. The authentic Italian café serves handcrafted breads, pastries and pizzas using traditional techniques from founder Rocco Princi's 40-year legacy.

Princi has opened its flagship Dubai Mall location, bringing authentic Milanese bakery culture to the UAE for the first time. The all-day café and bakery arrives through a partnership with Alshaya Group, marking the brand's regional expansion after launching in Kuwait. Founded by Rocco Princi in Milan in 1986, the concept centres on artisanal quality and the "Spirito di Milano" — the rhythm, discipline and warmth of Milan's food culture.

The Milanese concept

"Princi embodies the spirit of Milan: rhythm, discipline, and warmth," says founder Rocco Princi. "Everything begins with three simple things—water, flour, and fire—and the time it takes for them to become something real." The Dubai location follows this philosophy, designed as a social hub that matches every moment from morning espresso to evening desserts.

The experience centres on Princi's signature "La Piazza" style, inspired by Milan's social food culture. It's positioned as more than a bakery — an immersive destination where community, craft, and culture meet in Dubai's dining scene.

The artisanal menu celebrates Italian tradition with signature breads, pastries, pizzas, salads, and desserts. Freshness comes through chef-led craftsmanship and premium ingredients rather than promises. The offering spans from early morning Italian pastries and artisan breads to lunch and dinner options including pizza, pasta, sandwiches, and handmade desserts.

Each dish reflects Milanese heart and craftsmanship, using traditional artisanal techniques that Rocco Princi has refined since opening his first boutique bakery in Milan nearly four decades ago.

Alshaya partnership

"Our commitment to delivering world-class, authentic experiences continues with the debut of Princi in the UAE," says John Hadden, CEO of Alshaya Group. "We are thrilled to introduce this unique culinary landmark that offers guests an inspiring culinary destination that captures the vibrant essence of Milanese culture."

The opening adds to Alshaya's growing portfolio of premium culinary experiences in the region, which includes brands like Starbucks, Shake Shack, and Raising Cane's across over 3,500 locations in MENA, Turkey, and Europe.

Visit details

Princi Dubai Mall is now open for all-day dining, designed to match every moment from first espresso to final bite. The café operates as a social hub where guests can experience authentic Milanese culture through artisanal quality and traditional techniques. Specific hours and pricing weren't announced but the concept focuses on creating a space for repeat visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Princi Dubai located?

Princi is located in Dubai Mall, bringing its authentic Milanese bakery and café experience to Downtown Dubai. This is the brand's first location in the UAE.

What kind of food does Princi serve?

Princi offers an all-day artisanal menu celebrating Italian tradition, featuring signature breads, pastries, pizzas, salads, and handmade desserts using traditional Milanese techniques.

Is Princi a new brand in the UAE?

Yes, this is Princi's debut in the UAE through partnership with Alshaya Group. The brand previously opened in Kuwait as its first regional location outside of its Milan origins.

What is the Spirito di Milano concept?

Spirito di Milano means the essence and energy of Milan — the rhythm, discipline and warmth that founder Rocco Princi infuses into everything, from water, flour and fire to artisanal craftsmanship.