Middle East meat market to reach US$154.8B by 2033

MIDDLE EAST – The Middle East meat market, valued at US$101.35 billion in 2024, is projected to reach US$106.23 billion in 2025 and expand to US$154.81 billion by 2033, reflecting an annual growth rate of 4.82 percent.

Meat continues to be a primary protein source across the region’s 18 countries, driven by traditional cuisine and religious practices, with per capita consumption in GCC countries averaging 87 kilograms in 2023, more than double the global average.

Saudi Arabia and the UAE rely on imports for over 85 percent of their lamb, sourcing primarily from Australia, Sudan, and Ethiopia, as local production remains limited.

Population growth and the expansion of the urban middle class are pushing demand for animal protein and convenience products, with the Middle East expected to reach 640 million residents by 2030, 70 percent of whom will live in cities.

Religious occasions and social gatherings continue to influence meat consumption, as dishes like kabsa, machboos, and kebabs remain central to celebrations such as Eid al-Adha.

Domestic livestock farming faces constraints due to arid climates, scarce arable land, and limited freshwater, leaving the GCC dependent on imports for more than 80 percent of red meat.

The presence of more than 50 halal certification authorities, each with differing requirements, creates additional compliance challenges for suppliers and increases costs for market entry.

Investments in refrigerated logistics are reducing post-harvest losses and supporting food safety, with the UAE distributing 98 percent of its meat through cold chain systems and modern retail channels expanding access to premium products.

Alternative protein initiatives, including lab-grown meat approved in the UAE in 2023, are gaining traction, aiming to produce 40 percent of the country’s food needs domestically by 2051.

Raw meat remains the dominant segment, while processed meat is growing at 9.6 percent annually, driven by urban lifestyles and quick-service restaurants, and chicken leads the market with 43.3 percent share, whereas mutton is growing at 8.2 percent.

Supermarkets and hypermarkets accounted for 52.3 percent of meat sales in 2024, while online retail is the fastest-growing distribution channel, rising at 16.4 percent annually due to digital adoption and improved delivery infrastructure.

Saudi Arabia leads regional consumption with a 28.5 percent share, supported by population size, religious practices, and investments in poultry and cold chain infrastructure under Vision 2030.

The UAE ranks second, with high-income expatriate demand and hospitality-driven consumption, importing over 90 percent of its meat, while Egypt remains a high-volume, price-sensitive market where subsidized chicken dominates and red meat imports are rising.

Market competition focuses on logistics, halal compliance, and cold chain reliability, with companies increasingly using blockchain and digital traceability to manage supply chains and build consumer trust.

Leading players including Almarai, Lulu Group, and Al Dahra are pursuing vertical integration, halal standardization, and partnerships with international suppliers to maintain supply stability and mitigate regional risks.

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