Affordable fitness chain GymNation has revealed plans to open eight new sites across the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The chain, which opened its first site in Dubai in late 2018, has already opened two new clubs in 2020 – at Bur Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah – and will open six more in Mirdiff, Downtown, Silicon Oasis, Abu Dhabi, Al-Ain and Sharjah.

The 23,00sq ft Ras Al Khaimah and 30,000sq ft Bur Dubai locations both feature Matrix equipment and a diverse range of free group classes – including JumpNation, Zumba and range of Les Mills programmes.

GymNation was founded by UK entrepreneur Loren Holland – a former board of no-frills fitness company Xercise4Less – and currently has around 20,000 members across its three existing locations.

With the eight new sites, GymNation will become one of the largest fitness chains across the UAE.

“When we first set up GymNation, the UAE gym market had become rather stagnant," Loren Holland said.

"Fitness was incredibly expensive – in fact, the second most expensive market in the world, according to a Deutsche Bank study – and so we saw an opportunity to develop a value-driven gym brand that caters to what people really need.

"|Our new locations all follow the same unique proposition which includes our signature AED99 (US$27, €24, £21) per month pre-launch offer, and while we still cut out the frills, we ensure our facilities are world-class, open 24/7 and have one of the most vibrant atmospheres you will find anywhere in the city."

Frank Afeaki, co-founder of GymNation added: “2020 is an iconic year for the country and we are excited about representing UAE as a true homegrown brand.

"Our 2020 expansion plans are extremely exciting and we are delighted with the success of the Ras Al Khaimah and Bur Dubai openings.

"It is always exciting to be on track with your plans and our members are the true advocates and the people who make GymNation, The People’s Gym”.

GymNation is the latest to announce expansion plans for the UAE fitness market. In February, Fitness First Middle East also revealed plans to open eight clubs in the Emirates, while

Others looking to gain a foothold in the growing market include boutique operator 1Rebel.