)
Following a successful opening in Qatar in February, Melbourne-based fitness chain Body Fit Training (BFT) has reached a master franchise agreement for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) with plans to open 50-plus studios over the next decade.
Known for its 50-minute group strength training classes led by highly accredited coaches, BFT launched into Scandinavia last year and its global footprint now spans more than 320 studios across 12 countries.
The latest agreement is led by Dr Mohamed Abdou, a seasoned leader in business and strategic development with Edar Group. His journey with BFT began over a year ago when he experienced the brand’s "unique and highly effective" approach firsthand BFT Leicester in the UK.
"BFT offers an unmatched fitness experience, blending scientifically-backed training with cutting-edge technology and a community-driven atmosphere," Abdou says.
"From the moment I stepped into a BFT studio, I knew this was the right model for the Middle East and North Africa. This has been proven with the success of our first studio in BFT West Walk Doha, Qatar, which has been thriving since it opened in February 2025."
Qatar has been selected as the regional headquarters for BFT MENA, from where the agreement is expected to grow with openings as well in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and elsewhere in the region.
"Qatar’s dedication to health and wellness, coupled with its vibrant community, makes it the perfect home for BFT in the MENA region," he says.
"Our flagship studio in West Walk, Doha, embodies this vision, featuring the largest BFT space globally, spanning over 1,000 SQM, along with premium amenities and an innovative approach to fitness."
Richard Burnet, director and global CEO of BFT International, expresses his excitement about the milestone.
"It was a landmark moment for BFT as we proudly announced the opening of our first studio in the Middle East in Qatar - BFT West Walk, on February 10, 2025," he says.
"The energy, innovation, and passion that define BFT are now reaching new global communities, bringing our cutting-edge training to one of the world's most dynamic cities.
"With Dr Mohamed Abdou’s leadership and a shared vision for delivering exceptional fitness experiences, we are confident that the BFT brand will thrive in this vibrant region."
Following the launch in Doha, roll-outs will continue with the opening of flagship studios in Riyadh, Dubai, and Kuwait City over the next 12 months.
"This vision is about more than just opening studios," says Abdou. "It’s not just about opening studios - it’s about changing lives; bringing science, technology, and lasting habits together to raise the bar for fitness in the MENA region."
Founded in 2017 by fitness industry veteran Cameron Falloon, BFT’s 14 signature workouts are designed to help members reduce fat, build lean muscle, and achieve sustainable fitness progress.
The brand currently has locations in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Spain, the UK, the USA, Canada, Norway and Qatar. The group opened 38 locations in 2024 and has opened another 10 in 2025 thus far.
)
