GCC MEAT MARKET

GCC meat market size was estimated at around 3 million tonnes in 2024 and the market is forecast to touch 3.8 million tonnes in 2032 growing at steady CAGR of 3.1% between 2025 and 2032 owing to increasing population and rising meat consumption along with supportive government efforts aimed at boosting local production and food security.

Major Market Drivers and Emerging Trends

The GCC meat market size is experiencing notable growth primarily driven by population growth that fuels rising meat consumption. There has been a noticeable shift among the affluent population from carbs diet to those emphasizing protein. This shift has fueled increased meat consumption along with other functional health products. The population in the GCC exceeds 57 million people and meat consumption per person is estimated to average 31 kilograms annually. The rising meat consumption across the region aligns with the global trend toward protein rich diets.

Initiatives among regional governments to promote domestic production and guarantee food security are also fueling market growth. The unified regional strategy focuses on developing fishery and livestock initiatives to promote sustainability and food resilience in the long run. This effort is further supported by a USD 3.8 billion allocation for food technology development throughout the GCC region. Saudi Arabia has also made substantial efforts to enhance its domestic poultry production to strengthen its food security. The country plans to reach eighty percent self sufficiency in poultry meat supply.

Substantial investments in cold storage infrastructure and processing centers have further facilitated the GCC meat market growth. Food security initiatives and growing consumer demand for meat are causing significant changes in the cold storage networks and agricultural supply chain. The severe climate and water resources scarcity in the GCC impede domestic agricultural production which makes food security continues to be a top priority. To reduce reliance on imports, governments are making substantial investments in strengthening food supply and expanding cold storage infrastructure.

Furthermore ecommerce is changing the market by bringing meat directly to customers through digital platforms. Online retailers are propelling this trend by offering doorstep delivery and transparent product details along with attractive pricing. Ecommerce sites are expanding their product offerings to include premium meats along with organic products to reach a wider market. Moreover widespread smartphone usage and improved internet connectivity have encouraged consumers to shift from traditional grocery shopping to online platforms. Rising urban residency is contributing to a growing preference for online shopping for grocery needs like meat or seafood products. The GCC has a strong cultural taste for meat and seafood which makes them essential components of both traditional and contemporary diets.

While the market shows strong growth there are ongoing challenges particularly the reliance on imported meat for supply. Instability in global pricing and supply chain uncertainties can impact product availability along with the cost. Growing expenditures on fuel and cold chain facilities are putting upward pressure on operational expenses.

Based on product type, fresh meat represents a major segment which serves consumers who prefer unprocessed products for home cooked meals and foodservice use. Its versatility makes fresh meat a popular choice for preparing various local and international recipes. Processed meat refers to a product that has undergone preservation techniques like salting. These products are typically infused with flavor boosting elements which contribute to their broad consumer appeal. The demand for processed meat remains strong driven by its convenience and flavorful profile. Frozen meat is also gaining traction in the food service sector owing to its convenience. Another advantage is its extended shelf life and its ability to reduce the foodborne contamination risk. The frozen meat’s reduced fat and calorie levels than fresh meat caters to the growing demand for healthier food options. With increasingly busy lifestyles and growing urbanization now consumers have less time to prepare meals. This leads to greater reliance on convenient options like frozen meat.

Based on form, poultry is a leading segment favored for its affordability along with suitability for various cultural and dietary preferences. Chicken meat holds the dominant position within the poultry category with higher consumption compared to turkey and duck. Many countries in GCC are making significant investments to enhance poultry production since chicken remains a staple protein in households along with the foodservice sector. Annual poultry meat imports into the GCC region total close to USD 4 billion which reflects strong domestic demand. Saudi Arabia holds the position as the leading poultry producer in the Middle East. The Saudi government is actively addressing barriers to land access for poultry producers and offers equipment financing. It also restructures subsidies for feed and poultry.

The GCC red meat market is also undergoing notable changes fueled by demographic shifts and changing consumption patterns. Consumers prioritize quality and halal certification when purchasing. To meet evolving consumer demands the industry has diversified its offerings which ensures alignment with cultural and religious standards.

Based on distribution channel, the market is largely driven by supermarkets and hypermarkets which attract consumers through their expansive networks along with diverse meat selections. These stores meet consumer demand by providing numerous meat options which suit different dietary choices and financial capacities. Online stores are also quickly becoming a popular channel driven by the ease and flexibility they offer consumers. These online platforms provide various fresh and processed meats often complemented by convenient home delivery.

Top Market Players

Some major companies are Tanmiah Food Company, Savola Group, BRF SA, Organic Meat Company, JBS SA among others.

Key Developments

• • In 2024 a new collaboration between Believer Meats and AGWA in Abu Dhabi aims to strengthen expertise in cultivated meat technologies. The company aims to establish a footprint in Abu Dhabi which capitalizes on its strategic location to accelerate its expansion in the MENA market.

Segments covered in the Report:

The GCC Meat Market has been segmented on the basis of Product Type, Form, and Distribution Channel. Based on Product Type, the market is segmented into Poultry, Red Meat, and Fish & Seafood. Based on Form, the market is segmented into Fresh, Frozen, and Processed. Based on Distribution Channel, the market is segmented into Supermarkets/Hypermarkets and Specialty Stores, Online, and Others.

Market Segmentation

GCC Meat Market by Product Type

• • Poultry
  • Red Meat
  • Fish & Seafood

GCC Meat Market by Form

• • Fresh
  • Frozen
  • Processed

GCC Meat Market by Distribution Channel

• • Supermarkets/Hypermarkets and Specialty Stores
  • Online
  • Others

GCC Meat Market by Countries

• • UAE Meat Market All-Up (Option 1: Free 25% Customization)
  • Saudi Arabia Meat Market All-Up (Option 2: Free 25% Customization)
  • Oman Meat Market All-Up (Option 3: Free 25% Customization)
  • Kuwait Meat Market All-Up (Option 4: Free 25% Customization)
  • Rest of GCC Meat Market All-Up (Option 5: Free 25% Customization)

GCC Meat Leading market players

• • Tanmiah Food Company
  • Savola Group
  • BRF SA
  • Organic Meat Company
  • JBS SA