For Muslim women around the world, finding a space to exercise that aligns with both fitness goals and faith can be a challenge. The need for privacy, modesty, and a comfortable environment has long been a barrier—but in 2026, that barrier is rapidly disappearing.
Across the Middle East and beyond, a revolution is underway. Women-only gym franchises are no longer niche concepts tucked away in back streets. They are sophisticated, well-capitalized businesses attracting major investment from global players. From Dubai-based FitnGlam expanding across the region to Saudi Arabia’s NuYu receiving $67 million in funding, the market for Muslim women’s fitness is booming.
This guide profiles the leading women’s gym franchises serving Muslim communities, explores the investment landscape in 2026, and provides everything you need to know whether you’re looking to join as a member or invest as a franchisee.
The Market Context: Why Now?
The surge in women-only fitness franchises is not happening in isolation. It is driven by profound social, economic, and policy shifts across Muslim-majority countries.
Vision 2030 and the Saudi Transformation
Nowhere is this more evident than in Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 plan, introduced by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has fundamentally reshaped the landscape for women’s fitness . Key milestones include:
- 2017: The Saudi government began licensing women-only gyms for the first time
- 2017: Women were granted the right to establish women’s sports clubs
- 2018: The ban on women driving was lifted, increasing mobility to access fitness facilities
- Ongoing: The Ministry of Sports actively works to increase the percentage of individuals engaging in regular physical activity
The results are striking. The female fitness market in Saudi Arabia is projected to grow at an annual rate of 30 percent over the medium term . From a base of just over 50 women’s facilities nationwide, the market has exploded. One study notes that since 2015, female participation in sports in Saudi Arabia has increased by over 150 percent .
The Investment Case
Investors are taking notice. Arcapita, a global leader in Shari’ah-compliant alternative investments, recently invested in NuYu, a Saudi women’s fitness chain, deploying over SAR 250 million ($67 million) to expand the brand from 7 to over 30 locations .
As Martin Tan, Arcapita’s Chief Investment Officer, explained: “The female fitness segment in Saudi Arabia is virtually untapped with a penetration rate of less than 1%, while having one of the highest revenues per member globally” .
This combination of low penetration and high revenue potential creates a compelling opportunity for franchise investors and operators alike.
Leading Muslim Women’s Gym Franchises in 2026
1. FitnGlam: The UAE Original
Origin: United Arab Emirates
Founded: 2020
Franchise Fee: AED 300,000 (~$81,700)
Area Required: 10,000–30,000 sq. ft
Royalty Fee: 5% of Gross Sales
FitnGlam was born from a personal frustration. Founder Helena Hijazi, a qualified pharmacist and mother of four, moved to the UAE seeking exercise options that suited her needs as a covered woman. Disappointed by what was on offer at local ladies’ gyms, she decided to create something better .
The Concept:
FitnGlam positions itself as far more than a gym. The brand describes its spaces as “a community that inspires women to become the best version of themselves” and “a safe space where women can be themselves and discover that they are so much stronger than they imagined” .
The SuperClub model combines:
- State-of-the-art fitness equipment
- Group classes designed for women
- Spa and recovery facilities
- Community events and social spaces
Franchise Structure:
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Individual Unit Franchise Fee | AED 300,000 |
| Area Development Fee (3 units) | AED 720,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% of Monthly Gross Sales |
| Advertising Fee | 2% of Monthly Gross Sales |
| Marketing Fund | 1% of Monthly Gross Sales |
Training & Support:
- 30 days training at headquarters
- 10 days on-site training
- Operational support including site selection
- Marketing, purchasing, accounting, and legal support
Why It Matters:
FitnGlam represents the ideal of a homegrown brand built specifically for Muslim women’s needs. As the brand expands across the MENA region, it offers franchise opportunities for entrepreneurs passionate about women’s health.
2. NuYu: Saudi Arabia’s Boutique Pioneer
Origin: Saudi Arabia
Founded: Approximately 2017
Investment: SAR 250 million ($67 million) from Arcapita
Locations: 7 (expanding to 30+)
Focus: Boutique women-only gyms
NuYu was founded with a clear mission: to make fitness accessible to Saudi women in a welcoming, boutique environment. Co-founded by Princess Sara Al Saud, who serves as Creative Director, the brand has been at the forefront of the Saudi women’s fitness revolution .
The Model:
NuYu’s approach focuses on high-energy group classes in a premium, welcoming environment. Unlike large-format gyms that can feel intimidating, NuYu’s boutique model emphasizes:
- Small class sizes with personalized attention
- High-energy group fitness formats
- Premium facilities designed specifically for women
- A supportive community atmosphere
Growth Trajectory:
With Arcapita’s investment, NuYu is expanding from its base of 5 gyms in Riyadh and one each in Khobar and Dammam to over 30 locations across the Kingdom . The expansion is expected to create hundreds of jobs and bring fitness access to underserved locations.
Market Position:
NuYu currently serves approximately 6,000 members, with significant room for growth as the brand expands its footprint .
3. Gold’s Gym Saudi Arabia: The Trailblazer
Origin: USA (franchised in Saudi Arabia since 2007)
Master Franchisee: Makarem Batterjee
Key Achievement: Opened first women-only gyms in Saudi Arabia
Current Presence: 12+ locations across Saudi Arabia
The story of Gold’s Gym in Saudi Arabia is a story of pioneering courage. When Makarem Batterjee became the Master Franchisee for Gold’s Gym in his home country in 2007, he knew he would have to take a unique approach to respect local customs .
The Radical Move:
Batterjee did something unprecedented: he built the first female-only gyms in Saudi Arabia. The move was met with strong resistance. “Religious groups and even some government officials tried on multiple occasions to shut him down,” according to a case study of his journey .
But Batterjee persisted. He continued to build separate male and female gyms, delivering on Gold’s Gym’s commitment to help all people—men and women—achieve their potential through fitness.
The Legacy:
Today, Batterjee has opened 12 locations in Saudi Arabia with big plans for further expansion. More importantly, he paved the way for the entire industry. “Today there are more than 1,000 women’s gyms open in his country,” the case study notes .
In August 2018, Gold’s Gym honored Batterjee with the Gold’s Gym Vision Award at its global franchise convention, recognizing his role in shepherding a fitness revolution .
What This Means for Franchisees:
Gold’s Gym offers an established global brand with a proven track record in the Saudi market. The master franchise structure provides support while allowing local adaptation.
4. Anytime Fitness: Global Player Entering the Market
Origin: USA
Saudi Launch: Spring 2026
Master Franchisee: ABFit
Planned Expansion: 60+ clubs over six years
Format: Separate women’s and men’s branches
One of the most significant developments for 2026 is the entry of Anytime Fitness into the Saudi market. Purpose Brands, the parent company, signed a master franchise agreement with ABFit in late 2025, with the first club scheduled to open in Riyadh in spring 2026 .
The Commitment:
Under the agreement, a minimum of 60 additional clubs will open across Saudi Arabia over the following six years. Critically for Muslim women, the clubs will feature both women’s and men’s branches .
Strategic Importance:
Raed Alarabi Alharthi, investor partner and general manager of ABFit, noted: “Health and fitness are key components of The Saudi Vision 2030 goals, and we are proud to make this investment and expand access to fitness services across the Kingdom” .
Asem Abu Eisheh, CEO of Anytime Fitness Saudi Arabia, added: “The Ministry of Health offers numerous nutrition and physical activity initiatives to support healthy lifestyles; the Ministry of Sports works to increase the percentage of individuals who engage in regular physical activity; and the Ministry of Investment encourages investments in the fitness sector, creating an attractive environment that supports sustainable growth” .
Global Support:
Anytime Fitness operates in 49 countries and territories with 5 million members worldwide. Franchisees benefit from:
- Personalized coaching programs
- Nutrition and recovery services
- 24/7 operating capability
- Established global brand recognition
5. PureGym Arabia: Low-Cost, High-Value
Origin: UK (franchised in Saudi Arabia)
Franchise Partner: PureGym Arabia (MENA exclusive rights)
Current Expansion: 3 new Jeddah gyms (2 female-only)
Regional Plan: 130 gyms across MENA by 2027
PureGym has established a strong presence in Saudi Arabia through its franchise partner, PureGym Arabia, which holds exclusive rights to the brand across the MENA region .
The Low-Cost Model:
PureGym’s value proposition is affordability without compromising quality. The no-contract, flexible membership model appeals to a broad demographic, including women seeking accessible fitness options.
Recent Expansion:
In late 2024, PureGym Arabia announced the launch of three new franchised gyms in Jeddah. Significantly, two of these are female-only locations: one in the Al Safa neighbourhood and PureGym Ladies Jeddah Al Zahra .
CEO Perspective:
Susan Turner, CEO of PureGym Middle East, explained: “At PureGym, we’re on a mission to provide as many people as possible with access to flexible, affordable fitness. Following sustained demand for our gyms in Riyadh, Dammam and Khobar, we’re delighted to be expanding our presence with three new gyms in the fantastic city of Jeddah” .
Regional Ambitions:
PureGym plans to open 130 gyms across the Middle East and North Africa region by 2027, with the Saudi market as a key growth driver .
6. Xponential Fitness: Boutique Studio Integration
Origin: USA
Saudi Entry: 2020
Partner: Evox (Alhokair Group)
Brands Introduced: Club Pilates, Pure Barre, CycleBar, YogaSix, AKT
Xponential Fitness took a unique approach to entering the Saudi market. Rather than opening standalone studios immediately, the company integrated its boutique fitness brands within Evox’s larger fitness facilities .
The Strategy:
Mohammed Alhokair, CEO of the Evox group, explained the approach: “In our Evox clubs we’ll test for a year” before determining if and how standalone studios will open. This allows the market to become educated about each concept before significant capital is deployed .
Why Boutique Matters:
The strategy reflects an understanding of the nascent Saudi fitness market. “Ladies fitness was only just introduced in Saudi Arabia,” Alhokair noted. “So we’re in a state of educating the market. How it’s good for your well-being, good for your mental health” .
Xponential’s John Kersh, Chief International Development Officer, called the approach “a unique circumstance” but noted it could serve as a model for other markets as the company continues its global push .
The Investment Landscape: Numbers You Need to Know
Saudi Arabia Fitness Market Projections
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Market Size (2023) | ~$969 million |
| Projected Market Size (2032) | ~$2.64 billion |
| Projected CAGR | 11.8% |
| Female Fitness Market Growth Rate | 30% annually |
| Female Fitness Penetration | <1% (virtually untapped) |
*Sources: Astute Analytica via , Arcapita via *
Revenue Potential
One of the most striking data points comes from Arcapita’s analysis: the female fitness segment in Saudi Arabia has “one of the highest revenues per member globally” . This combination of high revenue potential and low current penetration creates a compelling investment thesis.
Job Creation
NuYu’s expansion alone is expected to create hundreds of jobs across Saudi Arabia . As more franchises enter the market, employment opportunities for female fitness professionals, instructors, and managers will multiply.
What Makes a Women’s Gym Franchise Work for Muslim Women?
1. Privacy and Modesty
The most fundamental requirement is complete privacy. Women-only gyms provide a space where Muslim women can exercise without the need for full hijab, wearing comfortable athletic clothing that allows full range of motion.
2. Female Staff
Successful franchises employ female trainers, instructors, and management. This creates comfortable interactions and provides role models for members.
3. Prayer Facilities
Thoughtful franchises incorporate prayer spaces with Qibla direction and wudu (ablution) facilities, recognizing that fitness routines should integrate with, not interrupt, religious obligations.
4. Family-Friendly Hours
Many Muslim women balance fitness with childcare responsibilities. Flexible hours and sometimes on-site childcare make regular attendance possible.
5. Community Focus
As FitnGlam emphasizes, these spaces are “so much more than just a women’s SuperClub. We are a community” . For many women, the gym becomes a social hub and support network.
How to Choose a Franchise Opportunity
For Potential Franchisees
Consider Brand Recognition:
Global brands like Anytime Fitness and Gold’s Gym offer established systems and international recognition. Regional brands like FitnGlam and NuYu offer local expertise and cultural alignment.
Evaluate Support Systems:
Look for franchises that provide comprehensive training, site selection assistance, and ongoing operational support. FitnGlam, for example, offers 30 days of headquarters training plus 10 days on-site .
Understand the Fee Structure:
Carefully evaluate franchise fees, royalties, and marketing contributions. FitnGlam’s structure includes AED 300,000 franchise fee, 5% royalty, 2% advertising, and 1% marketing fund .
Assess Market Potential:
Consider whether the brand is entering a growing market. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 creates tailwinds for women’s fitness franchises .
For Potential Members
Visit Multiple Locations:
If possible, tour facilities before committing. Evaluate cleanliness, equipment quality, class offerings, and overall atmosphere.
Check Class Schedules:
Ensure that class times work with your schedule. Some franchises offer extensive hours; PureGym’s female locations have “extensive opening hours” .
Ask About Privacy:
Confirm that facilities are truly women-only, with no male staff or visitors permitted during operating hours.
Consider Membership Terms:
Some franchises offer no-contract options (PureGym) ; others may require longer commitments. Choose what fits your lifestyle.
The Future: What to Expect in 2026 and Beyond
Continued Major Investment
Arcapita’s $67 million investment in NuYu and Anytime Fitness’s 60-club commitment signal continued confidence in the sector. As the global wellness economy reaches $6.3 trillion, investors are betting on the Middle East’s underserved female market .
Expanded Offerings
Expect to see more specialized offerings within women’s gyms—dedicated spaces for meditation, recovery services, nutrition coaching, and spa facilities .
Technology Integration
From app-based booking to virtual classes and fitness tracking, technology will play an increasing role in member experience.
More International Entrants
The success of early movers like Gold’s Gym and Xponential will likely attract additional international brands seeking to enter the Saudi and wider MENA market.
Conclusion: A Market at the Tipping Point
The women’s gym franchise sector serving Muslim communities is at a remarkable inflection point. Driven by visionary entrepreneurs like Makarem Batterjee, who opened the first women-only gyms in Saudi Arabia against fierce opposition, and Helena Hijazi, who created FitnGlam to serve covered women in the UAE, the industry has grown from a niche concept to a major investment category .
In 2026, the landscape includes:
- Homegrown success stories like NuYu scaling with major investment
- Global giants like Anytime Fitness entering the market with dedicated women’s branches
- Boutique specialists like Xponential bringing Pilates, barre, and yoga to Saudi women
- Low-cost players like PureGym making fitness accessible to a broader demographic
For Muslim women seeking fitness spaces that respect their values, the options have never been better. For entrepreneurs and investors, the opportunities have never been greater.
As Gold’s Gym’s Makarem Batterjee proved, building women’s gyms was once a radical act. Today, it is a thriving industry—and one that continues to grow.
Muslim Women’s Gym Franchises At-a-Glance (2026)
| Brand | Origin | Format | Franchise Fee | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FitnGlam | UAE | Women-only SuperClub | AED 300,000 | Built for covered women by women |
| NuYu | Saudi Arabia | Boutique women-only | Investment-backed | 30% annual market growth |
| Gold’s Gym | USA (Saudi master franchise) | Separate male/female | Established | Pioneer with 12+ locations |
| Anytime Fitness | USA | Women’s & men’s branches | Available | 60+ clubs planned |
| PureGym Arabia | UK (MENA franchise) | Female-only locations | Available | Low-cost, no-contract model |
| Xponential Fitness | USA | Boutique integration | Via Evox | 5 studio brands under one roof |
Are you a member of or investor in a women’s fitness franchise? Share your experience in the comments below.