Middle East

The Tehran in Iran report provides comprehensive city level information benchmarked against other cities in the country and region. The report includes historic data and forecasts on city population, consumer expenditure, digital penetration, wealth…

The Mashhad in Iran report provides comprehensive city level information benchmarked against other cities in the country and region. The report includes historic data and forecasts on city population, consumer expenditure, digital penetration, wealth…

The Baghdad in Iraq report provides comprehensive city level information benchmarked against other cities in the country and region. The report includes historic data and forecasts on city population, consumer expenditure, digital penetration, wealth…

In 2023, real GDP growth of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) slowed to 3.3% due to a global economic slowdown and reduced oil production. Nevertheless, the non-oil sector saw rapid growth, contributing to economic resilience of the United Arab…

In 2023, Qatar's GDP growth slowed to 2.2%, with the hydrocarbon sector driving the economy despite production disruptions and oil price fluctuations. Qatar’s GDP per capita notably exceeded the regional average, supported by a rise in private…

In 2023, Saudi Arabia's GDP growth slowed to 0.5% due to a downturn in the oil sector and falling global oil prices. However, increased private and public spending, along with a substantial rise in gross fixed capital formation, supported the…

A growing population, a positive post-FIFA effect and increased tourism are facilitating growth in snacks sales in 2024. The resumption in snacking habits in the wake of the pandemic is also boosting the popularity of snacking on the go. However,…

2024 saw strong positive sales growth across snacks in Iraq despite high inflation and the rather chaotic scene on the supply side. While imported products and international brands are popular among affluent urban professionals, the majority remain…

The briefing explores structural drivers of inflation and their impact on the global economy and business environment. Factors such as demographics changes, globalisation reset, decarbonisation, AI revolution and higher debt levels would add to the…

In 2023, Saudi Arabia saw a significant increase in per capita disposable income levels in real terms, supported by a decrease in unemployment and expansion of the non-oil private sector. However, income inequality and poverty issues persisted, with…

After a couple of years of decline, total sweet spreads packaging in Saudi Arabia returned to growth in 2023. Most categories saw a rise in packaging volumes, with the exception of honey. Nevertheless, within this category, PET bottles saw growth in…

After a couple of years of decline, total sauces, dips and condiments packaging volumes in Saudi Arabia returned to growth in 2023. This was also the pattern of growth seen by mayonnaise. PET bottles continued to be the dominant pack type for…

Total processed meat and seafood packaging volumes in Saudi Arabia maintained solid growth in 2023. These products are seen as convenient, time-saving meal options, especially with the substantial increase in the number of women entering the Saudi…

Total processed fruit and vegetables packaging volumes saw growth in Saudi Arabia in 2023. Frozen processed fruit and vegetables saw a strong increase in this year, and flexible plastic was the only notable pack type used for such products, which can…

As consumers are seeking healthier and more sustainable food options, sales of plant-based dairy products increased in Saudi Arabia in 2023, as a perceived healthier alternative to traditional dairy products, which drove up the associated packaging…

The global labour markets are rapidly evolving, influenced by demographic shifts, technological advancements, changing workforce preferences, and unexpected events. While this transformation impacts costs, productivity and economic growth, it also…

Total meals and soups packaging volumes continued to rise in Saudi Arabia in 2023. Demand for ready meals surged during the pandemic as foodservice closures and fears around food delivery drove home-cooking occasions; ready meals presented a more…

Total dairy packaging volumes in Saudi Arabia continued to fall in 2023. However, drinking milk products, including milk, returned to growth in packaging volumes in this year. Milk is packaged mainly in brick liquid cartons in the country, although…

Total confectionery packaging volumes in Saudi Arabia continued to rise in 2023, although were still unable to return to anywhere near the pre-pandemic level. In Saudi Arabia, growth in packaging volumes for chocolate confectionery improved strongly…

Following a decline in packaging volumes in 2022, total baby food packaging continued to see declining volumes in Saudi Arabia in 2023. Milk formula accounts for the most significant share of packaging volumes in baby food, and continued to decline…