Dairy Queen is accelerating its international expansion with plans to open 187 restaurants across Asia and the Middle East, marking one of its most ambitious global growth initiatives in recent years.

The company has signed new development agreements that will introduce the brand to Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan for the first time, while also deepening its presence in the Middle East.

Shanghai Dairy Queen Limited oversees the company’s entry into Hong Kong and Macau, where 60 and 12 locations are planned, respectively.

In Taiwan, Dairy Queen is partnering with SFB Corporation Limited and Shanghai Dairy Queen Limited to launch 100 restaurants over the next decade. The expansion began with a high-profile market debut at Taipei 101 on November 18.

Meanwhile, long-time franchisee Al-Majid Jawad WLL will add 15 new restaurants in Qatar by 2030, growing its total footprint there to 25 locations. The company expects the first wave of new DQ restaurants across these markets to begin opening next year.

“Entering new markets and growing existing markets is a key component of our growth strategy,” said Nicolas Boudet, COO international at International Dairy Queen. 

“We’re pleased to add to our footprint and to do so with experienced franchise ownership groups focused on operating successful restaurants with employees that deliver on our mission to create positive memories for all who touch DQ.”

Founded in 1940 and now a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, Dairy Queen operates more than 7700 restaurants worldwide.