A beloved Filipino dessert is poised for a global adventure. Bebang Halo-Halo, a rapidly expanding chain known for its vibrant and refreshing treats, is setting its sights on international expansion, with Dubai as its first target.
The ambitious plan aims to launch its first overseas store by late 2026 or early 2027, bringing a taste of the Philippines to a wider audience. This isn’t simply about business; it’s about sharing a cultural touchstone with those who crave a familiar comfort.
Dubai was a natural choice for this initial foray. Both the President and CEO, Sam Karazi, and co-founder Daymee Salumbides, possess deep familiarity with the city, having each spent over a decade living and working there. Navigating a known market offers a significant advantage.
The decision is also fueled by the substantial Filipino population in the United Arab Emirates. Over 189,000 registered Filipino voters reside in the UAE, with a significant concentration in Dubai, creating a ready and eager customer base longing for a taste of home.
Bebang Halo-Halo’s remarkable growth story began in humble surroundings – a residential parking space in Quezon City. Initially serving neighbors, the business struggled to break beyond its local confines until Karazi joined the venture.
Within months of Karazi’s arrival, the business transformed, opening its first official branch in Mandaluyong. He attributes this success to a mastery of social media marketing, calling it the “secret sauce” that propelled the brand forward.
The company didn’t hesitate to invest heavily in marketing from the very beginning, recognizing its power to build brand awareness and cultivate a loyal following. This early commitment proved crucial to its rapid ascent.
Today, Bebang Halo-Halo boasts 42 branches across the Philippines, a testament to its popularity and effective strategy. The company is aggressively expanding, aiming for 50 stores by the end of the year and 60 by January 2026.
At times, the expansion has been breathtaking, with two or three new stores opening each week. Despite a slightly delayed start to large-scale expansion last year, the momentum remains strong and unwavering.
Karazi emphasizes a relentless drive to continue moving forward, viewing global expansion not just as a goal, but as an inevitable next step. The ambition is clear: to take the Bebang Halo-Halo brand to the world, and nothing will stand in the way.
