Crossword have been part of India’s cultural fabric for decades. Anyone who’s grown up in an Indian city probably remembers wandering into one of its outlets, browsing shelves without really intending to buy anything. Fast forward to 2025, and the chain has gone international for the first time, picking Dubai as the launchpad. The new flagship store of Crossword sits inside Silicon Central Mall at Dubai Silicon Oasis, a fitting location in a city that mixes tradition, ambition, and a huge appetite for culture.
Crossword Opens Its First International Store In Dubai
The move feels like a milestone rather than just another store opening. After all, Crossword has built its reputation on more than selling books. It’s always been about creating spaces where readers feel at home. Dubai, with its mix of nationalities and love for curated experiences, seems almost made for it.
From India To Dubai’s Bookshelves
Step inside the 3,000 sq ft store and you’ll notice the details straight away. Warm oak shelves, neutral colours, wide open layout, it’s designed to slow you down. You don’t rush here; you linger.
As for the collection, it’s not simply “global hits only.” Sure, international bestsellers line the shelves, but you’ll also see Arabic titles, cultural works, children’s favourites, and a scattering of unexpected finds. On another shelf, premium stationery and gifts catch your eye. In practice, it’s a one-stop spot for anyone who likes browsing beautiful things, whether they’re shopping for a novel, a journal, or a clever present.
CEO Aakash Gupta summed it up neatly when he said the store was built as a destination for “discovery, dialogue, and connection.” And to be fair, it does feel more like a cultural hub than a commercial project.
More Than Expansion Plans
Crossword isn’t stopping here. The brand has ambitious plans to reach 150 stores by the end of 2025. Dubai, though, is a statement choice. It’s a city that already thrives on book fairs, author talks, and community events, so the store plugs into an existing appetite. Expect it to become a buzzing space with open mics, storytelling corners, book clubs, and children’s workshops, the sort of calendar that keeps people coming back.
Let’s face it, in an age where so much of reading happens on a screen, a store like this feels almost rebellious. It reminds you of the simple pleasure of flipping through real pages in a calm space. Dubai’s new Crossword is more than just another brand export; it’s a nod to the timelessness of books and the communities they build.
Cover Image Courtesy: Supplied
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