Explore the latest trends, demand drivers and growth opportunitie...
Explore the latest trends, demand drivers and growth opportunities in the Middle East, with in-depth market and data analysis from our in-country field researchers and regional experts.
Bread remains a key area of staple foods in Saudi Arabia with it being the largest category in both retail volume and current value terms. Bread accompanies many meals and therefore sales are not generally significantly impacted by factors such as…
Demand for baked goods continues to grow in the United Arab Emirates. The local market is a major tourist destination, and the opening of society since the ending of pandemic-related restrictions means that tourism is booming. Events being held in…
Breakfast cereals is witnessing healthy growth in 2023 and this is mainly due to the normalisation of life in the Kingdom and the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions. The re-opening of schools and consumers returning to the workplace has had a…
Retail demand for breakfast cereals continues to grow in the United Arab Emirates. Since local consumers have resumed busy schedules, many of them find breakfast cereals a quick and convenient option. RTE cereals are easy to prepare, thereby saving…
Saudi Arabia mainly imports its potatoes from Belgium, the Netherlands, and Egypt. However, during the second half of 2022 there were difficulties in importing potatoes from these countries as they experienced poor harvests due to unfavourable…
Retail demand for frozen processed vegetables continues to rise in 2023, driven by consumer perceptions that this format offers convenience and is an easy-to-prepare alternative to fresh vegetables. It takes less preparation time, since frozen…
Processed meat, seafood and alternatives to meat is witnessing healthy growth in current value and retail volume terms in 2023, continuing the pattern seen in 2022. This positive performance is mainly due to life getting back to normal with consumers…
Like many markets, consumers in the United Arab Emirates are becoming increasingly concerned about their health and wellness. As a result, the demand for processed meat that is lower in fat, salt, and additives or organic options that are free from…
Noodles is the smallest category within rice, pasta and noodles in retail volume terms, but it is seeing healthy growth in Saudi Arabia in 2023. These products have found appeal among busy consumers looking for a quick snack or meal option.…
The United Arab Emirates has banned the export and re-export of rice for four months starting from the end of July. However, the suspension could be automatically renewed. The suspension has been imposed on non-basmati white rice originating from…