Fast-food operators in the United Arab Emirates and other Gulf countries are setting up branches around the world to expand their business.

The Associated Press said the move can be seen as an attempt by Mideast entrepreneurs to match the spread of international food outlets in their region. By opening more stores overseas, Mideast firms are showing that globalization is not only for American companies, according to the report.

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A restaurant chain based in the United Arab Emirates serves falafel, a local cuisine, to its customers overseas.

Just Falafel, which was launched in Abu Dhabi in 2007, has branches in London, Cairo and Istanbul as part of its foray into the international market.

In June, it opened its first stores in Canada and the U.S.

During an interview in Dubai, Just Falafel boss Fadi Malas announced plans to open stores in other locations in North America and Europe. While he said he does not expect overseas customers to love Middle Eastern food overnight, he voiced optimism that diners would eventually appreciate food like falafel as they did Japan's sushi.

Besides falafel, wraps are also on Just Falafel's menu, along with hummus and tzatziki and other Mediterranean favorites. Indian, Japanese and Mexican sandwiches are also on the list, giving customers a wide range of choices.

Just Falafel is not the only Middle Eastern firm aiming for global expansion. Man'oushe, which specializes in street food, operates in eight locations in Dubai and plans to open more stores in the Middle East and Europe. CEO Jihad El Eit announced deals to set up four branches in Egypt and 12 in Qatar.

Just Falafel currently has 52 stores and plans to bring the number to 900.

In the U.S., the company has signed deals for more store openings in at least six locations, including Texas, New York and Los Angeles.

TagsJust Falafel, Mideast business expansion