Karen Wazen Launches Two New Boutiques in Cairo
Karen Wazen, a prominent entrepreneur from Lebanon now based in Dubai, is set to expand her brand’s presence in Egypt with the inauguration of two standalone boutiques in Cairo. This initiative is in collaboration with the Egyptian retail firm, Baraka Group.
Wazen arrived in Cairo on November 8, embarking on a three-day program dedicated to the boutique openings. The first store, located at 5A by The Waterway, opened its doors, with a second boutique at Arkan Plaza scheduled to launch on November 9.
These new boutiques signify a major advancement in the brand’s retail footprint, although Karen Wazen Eyewear has been accessible to Egyptian consumers since 2021 through the partnership with Baraka Group.
From Fashion Blogger to Business Leader
Born in Beirut, the 40-year-old Wazen initially made her mark in the fashion and lifestyle domain through social media, launching her blog “Karen’s Choice” in 2016. Her love for eyewear inspired her to create Karen Wazen Eyewear in 2018, driven by her personal experiences of confidence stemming from wearing sunglasses.
While the brand’s early focus was on sunglasses, it has since diversified its portfolio to include optical frames, jewelry, belts, and various accessories. Notably, physical retail has played a crucial role in the brand’s success, with retail accounting for 85 percent of the company’s sales as of November 2025, according to Vogue.
Strategic Growth in Egypt
Egypt has emerged as a pivotal market for the brand, with over 12,500 pairs of sunglasses sold locally since 2021, as noted by Vogue. The recent openings are part of a broader expansion plan between Wazen and Baraka Group, targeting the establishment of 15 to 16 branded stores across Egypt over the next four years.
The new boutiques are designed to provide Egyptian consumers with access to a comprehensive range of products, including sunglasses, optical frames, and other accessories. Additionally, new product launches in Egypt will closely follow international releases, ensuring local offerings align with global trends.
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