For 25 years, Nando’s has been bringing the heat to Qatar, serving its signature flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken while becoming part of the country’s evolving dining scene.
The journey began in 2001 with the opening of the first Nando’s restaurant on Salwa Road. At the time, Qatar looked very different, but the warmth of its hospitality and its appreciation for good food were already firmly established. Over the years, Nando’s has grown alongside the country, expanding from that first restaurant to 12 locations across Doha and beyond.
Today, Nando’s welcomes guests at Salwa Road, City Center Doha, Financial Square, Bin Omran, The Pearl, Doha Festival City, Ezdan Al Wakra, Lusail Boulevard, Villaggio, Avenue Mall at Steigenberger Hotel, Tawar Mall and Place Vendôme. With Financial Square and Bin Omran operating 24 hours a day, guests can satisfy their PERi-PERi cravings at almost any time.
Mr. Sajed Jassim Mohammed Sulaiman, Managing Director, reflects on the journey:
“When we opened our first Nando’s restaurant on Salwa Road in 2001, we began a journey that would grow alongside Qatar. Over the past 25 years, generations of families and friends have shared meals and created memories around our tables. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has been part of our story, and we look forward to continuing to bring the heat for many more years.”
However, the Nando’s story in Qatar is about much more than restaurant openings. It is about the people who have gathered around its tables over the past 25 years.
Families who first visited years ago now return with a new generation, while friends, colleagues and visitors continue to create their own memories over flame-grilled chicken, sharing platters and plenty of PERi-PERi.
It is also a story shaped by the Nandocas - the people who bring the Nando’s experience to life every day. From those who have been part of the journey for many years to the newer team members carrying it forward, their energy, warmth and hospitality remain at the heart of the brand.
Mr. Balu Subramonian, Head of Operations, says:
“This milestone belongs to our people. Our Nandocas bring the Nando’s experience to life every day through their passion, energy and genuine hospitality. Some have been part of this journey for many years, while others are helping us build its next chapter. Reaching 25 years would not have been possible without their dedication and the continued support of our guests.”
Although much has changed since 2001, the essence of Nando’s remains the same: bold flavour, genuine hospitality and food prepared with care. Its flame-grilled chicken is still marinated for at least 24 hours and cooked to each guest’s preferred PERi-PERi heat level. At the same time, the menu has continued to evolve, introducing new flavours and experiences while keeping the favourites guests know and love.
To mark this milestone, Nando’s Qatar is celebrating with its “Still Bringing the Heat” campaign - honouring the bold flavours, shared moments and memorable experiences that have defined its journey. The campaign looks back at where it all began while celebrating how far both Nando’s and Qatar have come over the past quarter-century.
Reaching 25 years is not simply a celebration of longevity. It reflects the trust and loyalty of the guests who have supported Nando’s throughout the years, the dedication of its teams and the partnerships that have helped the brand grow.
Mr. Vyanktesh Jaiswal, Chief Operating Officer, adds:“Celebrating 25 years in Qatar is a proud milestone and a reflection of the trust our guests have placed in Nando’s. Our growth from one Casa on Salwa Road to 12 locations has been guided by our commitment to quality, genuine hospitality and memorable experiences. As we celebrate how far we have come, we remain focused on evolving with our guests and serving the communities that have supported us.”
As Nando’s Qatar looks towards its next chapter, one thing is certain: after 25 years, it is still bringing the heat - and there will always be a place for everyone at the table.
