The Hashoo Group’s hospitality division, Pearl Continental Hospitality, has signed a Master Franchise Agreement with Global Business Bridge (Private) Limited to expand its well-known restaurant brands, Bukhara and Dumpukht, throughout Punjab, Islamabad, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). This is a significant development for the South Asian culinary scene.
The strategic partnership was officially announced during a signing ceremony held on July 19, 2025, at Pearl-Continental Hotel Lahore. The event was attended by senior executives from Hashoo Group, PEARL CONTINENTAL Hospitality, and Global Business Bridge, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s regional and international growth journey.
This collaboration aims to bring world-class Pakistani culinary experiences to new markets by launching outlets of Bukhara and Dumpukht resturants, two of the most cherished fine-dining restaurants under the Connoisseur Collection of PEARL CONTINENTAL Hospitality. The expansion promises to elevate food culture in key urban hubs and cater to a growing audience that appreciates authenticity blended with excellence.
Bukhara, known for its tandoor-cooked kebabs, vegetables, breads, and aromatic live BBQ, is a celebration of Pakistan’s rich culinary heritage. On the other hand, Dumpukht, derived from the traditional “dum” cooking style of the 18th-century Indian Nawabs, brings luxurious slow-cooked dishes, retaining their natural essence and flavor in every bite. Together, Bukhara and Dumpukht resturants are emblematic of Pakistan’s gourmet traditions and continue to be favored destinations for discerning diners.
Shahid Riaz Gondal, CEO of Global Business Bridge, expressed excitement over the agreement, stating, “This partnership reflects our shared vision to bring exceptional dining experiences to wider audiences. Our success with Dumpukht in DHA Lahore gives us the confidence to take this expansion forward and introduce authentic Pakistani cuisine to both local and global palates.”
From PEARL CONTINENTAL Hospitality, Bastien Blanc, CEO of the Hospitality Division at Hashoo Group, called the partnership a transformative chapter in the group’s restaurant expansion plan. “This agreement allows us to grow our presence both domestically and internationally, especially in the rapidly evolving hospitality sector of Saudi Arabia,” he said. The Pearl Continental coming restaurants are set to blend traditional recipes with modern hospitality practices, aiming to set new standards in the premium dining sector. The expansion also underlines PEARL CONTINENTAL Hospitality’s continued commitment to promoting the culinary richness of Pakistan on a global scale.
This move also strengthens the position of Bukhara and Dumpukht resturants within Hashoo Group’s expansive food portfolio, which already includes over 50 restaurants under the Connoisseur Collection, such as Sakura, Marco Polo, Tai Pan, and others. Through its collaboration with Global Business Bridge, PEARL CONTINENTAL Hospitality continues to build bridges between culture and cuisine, offering refined dining to both local patrons and international visitors.
