Indian speciality coffee company Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters has revealed plans to expand into the Middle East through a partnership with Ambrosia Gulf.
Ambrosia Gulf will serve as the company’s master franchisee for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.
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The initiative will commence with the opening of a Blue Tokai café in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2025.
Currently operating more than 175 cafés in India and maintaining an international presence with cafés and a roastery in Tokyo, Japan, Blue Tokai is now set to establish its footprint in the Middle East through this collaboration.
Blue Tokai co-founder and CEO Matt Chitranjan stated: “It’s an exciting time for Blue Tokai as we grow beyond India into a market that appreciates traceability, craft and community.”
Chitranjan added that Ambrosia Gulf contributes extensive operational expertise and a deep understanding of local consumer expectations.
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By GlobalDataAmbrosia Gulf is part of Ambrosia Foods Group, supported by Pulsar Capital, an investment company active in India, the Middle East and other emerging markets.
Pulsar Capital focuses on developing sustainable, scaleable businesses with strategic and operational guidance.
In India, Ambrosia is preparing to introduce Papa Johns, with its first location planned for September 2025.
In the GCC, Ambrosia Gulf already oversees the Biryani By Kilo franchise.
In addition to opening cafés, Blue Tokai and Ambrosia Gulf will bring the brand’s fast-moving consumer goods offerings to the GCC.
The partnership will make Blue Tokai’s products available to café customers, the HoReCa sector (hotels, restaurants, cafés), and direct-to-consumer channels, broadening the brand’s presence across the region.
Ambrosia Gulf executive chairman Vish Narain stated: “We’re excited to bring Blue Tokai to the UAE and share its incredible coffee story with the region.
“We’re focused on building brands that prioritise quality, authenticity, and customer experience — values that Blue Tokai exemplifies.
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our vision to thoughtfully grow premium food and beverage offerings across the GCC.”
In September 2025, global investment company Verlinvest acquired a significant stake in Blue Tokai.
