DUBAI: US cosmetics store chain Ulta Beauty is preparing to expand into the Middle East, with openings planned in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Kuwait. “The Middle East is one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing beauty markets, with a consumer who is both passionate about beauty and deeply engaged with global trends,” Ulta Beauty President and CEO Kecia Steelman told Arab News recently. The partnership will be with Kuwaiti franchise operator Alshaya Group, she added.