GCC Edible Meat Market SIZE & SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS & FORECASTS UP TO 2030

The GCC Edible Meat Market is segmented by Type (Beef, Mutton, Poultry), by Form (Canned, Fresh / Chilled, Frozen, Processed), by Distribution Channel (Off-Trade, On-Trade) and by Country (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates). Market value in USD and market volume in tonnes are presented. Key data points observed include production and price.

GCC Edible Meat Market SIZE & SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS & FORECASTS UP TO 2030

GCC Edible Meat Market Size

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GCC Edible Meat Market Summary
Study Period 2017 - 2030
Base Year For Estimation 2024
Forecast Data Period 2025 - 2030
Market Size (2025) USD 11.73 Billion
Market Size (2030) USD 12.79 Billion
CAGR (2025 - 2030) 1.73 %
Market Concentration Low

Major Players

GCC Edible Meat Market Major Players

*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

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GCC Edible Meat Market Analysis

The GCC Edible Meat Market size is estimated at 11.73 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 12.79 billion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 1.73% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The GCC edible meat market is experiencing significant transformation driven by substantial investments in domestic production capabilities and infrastructure development. Saudi Arabia has announced plans to invest USD 5 billion to boost poultry production, aiming to achieve 80% self-sufficiency by 2025. This investment trend is reflected across the region, with countries like Oman making notable progress in domestic meat production, achieving 46% self-sufficiency in 2022. The focus on domestic production is reshaping the industry landscape, with governments implementing supportive policies and providing incentives to local producers to reduce import dependence and ensure food security.


Digital transformation and evolving distribution channels are revolutionizing the GCC meat market retail landscape. The United Arab Emirates, with its 99% internet penetration rate and 9.38 million users in 2022, exemplifies the region's rapid digitalization. Major retailers are expanding their online presence, implementing AI-driven inventory management systems, and developing sophisticated cold chain logistics networks. The modernization of retail infrastructure is particularly evident in the emergence of specialized meat sections in supermarkets and the integration of smart technologies in storage and distribution facilities.


Consumer preferences in the GCC meat market are increasingly influenced by health consciousness, convenience, and religious considerations. The market demonstrates a strong preference for halal-certified products, with fresh and chilled meat forms being particularly popular among consumers. The UAE's rising disposable income, reaching USD 241.2 billion in 2022, has led to increased demand for premium meat products and convenient ready-to-cook options. This shift in consumer behavior has prompted retailers to expand their product offerings and improve the shopping experience through both traditional and digital channels.


The region's meat production infrastructure continues to expand, with significant investments in local farming and processing facilities. The UAE's growing livestock population, which reached 112.37 thousand in 2021, and its increased beef production of 19,200 tons in 2022, demonstrate the region's commitment to strengthening domestic production capabilities. Countries across the GCC are investing in modern slaughterhouses, processing facilities, and cold storage infrastructure to support the growing demand for fresh and processed meat products. These developments are complemented by strategic partnerships between local and international players to enhance production capabilities and introduce innovative products to the market.

Segment Analysis: Type

Poultry Segment in GCC Edible Meat Market

Poultry dominates the GCC edible meat market, commanding approximately 73% market share in 2024, primarily due to its affordability and widespread acceptance across the region. The segment's strong position is supported by increasing domestic production capabilities, with countries like Saudi Arabia achieving significant self-sufficiency levels in poultry production. The development of advanced poultry processing facilities and strategic investments by major international companies has further strengthened the segment's market position. The preference for poultry meat is also driven by its lower price point compared to other meat types, with poultry being approximately 30-40% cheaper than beef or mutton in most GCC countries. Additionally, the segment benefits from extensive distribution networks and a strong presence across both modern retail and traditional market channels.

Market Analysis of GCC Edible Meat Market: Chart for Type

Mutton Segment in GCC Edible Meat Market

The mutton segment is projected to demonstrate the strongest growth in the GCC meat market, with an expected growth rate of approximately 2% during 2024-2029. This growth is primarily driven by increasing domestic production capabilities and strategic investments in sheep farming infrastructure across the region. The segment's expansion is further supported by the cultural significance of mutton in Middle Eastern cuisine and its popularity during religious festivals and celebrations. Modern retail chains are increasingly dedicating specialized sections for fresh mutton cuts, while also expanding their frozen and processed mutton product offerings. The growth is also attributed to rising consumer preference for grass-fed and organic mutton products, particularly among health-conscious consumers in countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

Remaining Segments in GCC Edible Meat Market

The beef and other meat segments complete the GCC edible meat market landscape, each serving distinct consumer preferences and market needs. The beef segment maintains a significant presence in the market, particularly through imported premium cuts and processed products, while also seeing growth in domestic production capabilities. The other meat segment, which includes camel meat and other specialty meats, caters to specific regional preferences and traditional consumption patterns. Both segments are witnessing modernization in terms of processing capabilities and distribution channels, with an increasing focus on quality standards and halal certification. These segments are also experiencing innovation in product offerings, particularly in the processed and ready-to-cook categories, addressing the evolving consumer preferences in the region.

Segment Analysis: Form

Fresh/Chilled Segment in GCC Edible Meat Market

The fresh/chilled segment dominates the GCC edible meat market, accounting for approximately 53% of the total market value in 2024. This significant market share is primarily driven by strong consumer preference for fresh meat products in traditional Middle Eastern cuisine, particularly in dishes like grilled meats, kebabs, shawarma, and traditional stews. The segment's dominance is further reinforced by the cultural and religious importance of fresh halal meat in the region. Countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE have been focusing on reducing imports and boosting local production of fresh meat products through investments and joint ventures with globally renowned organizations. The preference for fresh/chilled meat is also supported by the widespread availability of these products through various distribution channels, including traditional butcher shops, supermarkets, and hypermarkets across the GCC region.

Processed Segment in GCC Edible Meat Market

The processed meat segment is projected to exhibit the strongest growth in the GCC meat market, with an expected CAGR of approximately 2% during 2024-2029. This growth is primarily driven by changing consumer lifestyles, particularly the increasing demand for convenient and ready-to-eat meat products. The expansion is supported by the rising working population and growing urbanization across GCC countries, which has led to increased preference for processed meat products that require minimal preparation time. Major market players are investing in advanced processing facilities and introducing innovative products to cater to evolving consumer preferences. The segment's growth is further bolstered by the development of cold chain infrastructure and the increasing presence of international food service chains across the region.

Remaining Segments in Form Segmentation

The frozen and canned meat segments play crucial roles in the GCC edible meat market, offering different value propositions to consumers. The frozen meat segment serves as a vital bridge between import-dependent GCC countries and international meat suppliers, providing longer shelf life and consistent quality. The segment benefits from the region's well-developed cold storage infrastructure and the increasing adoption of modern retail formats. Meanwhile, the canned meat segment, while smaller in market share, maintains its significance in the market by offering convenient, long-lasting meat products that are particularly popular during the holy month of Ramadan and in remote areas where fresh meat availability might be limited.

Segment Analysis: Distribution Channel

Off-Trade Segment in GCC Edible Meat Market

The off-trade distribution channel dominates the GCC edible meat market, with supermarkets and hypermarkets being the primary contributors, accounting for approximately 49% of the total market value in 2024. This channel's prominence is driven by several major retail chains operating across multiple countries in the region, including Carrefour, Lulu Hypermarket, Spinneys, Coop, and Al Maya Supermarket. These retailers have established a strong presence in major cities and towns, offering consumers a wide variety of meat products ranging from fresh and frozen to processed options. The growth of this segment is further supported by the modernization of retail infrastructure, improved cold chain facilities, and the increasing consumer preference for organized retail formats. Many supermarkets and hypermarkets have also enhanced their digital presence, enabling customers to check product availability, meat types, and prices before visiting stores, thereby improving the overall shopping experience.

Online Channel Segment in GCC Edible Meat Market

The online distribution channel is experiencing remarkable growth in the GCC meat market, projected to expand at approximately 10% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. This rapid growth is primarily driven by increasing internet penetration, with the Middle East having over 200 million internet users representing 79% of the total population. The segment's expansion is further supported by the rising adoption of e-commerce platforms, grocery delivery apps, and dedicated meat delivery services. Major retailers like Carrefour and Lulu Group have significantly invested in their online platforms, offering a comprehensive range of meat products with features such as contactless delivery and digital payment options. The convenience of home delivery, coupled with the ability to compare prices and access a wider variety of products, has made online channels increasingly attractive to consumers. Additionally, the integration of AI and IoT technologies in online meat retail operations has enhanced the efficiency of order processing and delivery systems.

Remaining Segments in Distribution Channel

The on-trade distribution channel continues to play a vital role in the GCC edible meat market, primarily serving the region's robust hospitality and foodservice sector. This segment encompasses restaurants, hotels, cafes, and other food service establishments that cater to both local residents and the region's significant tourist population. The channel benefits from the Middle East's strong dining-out culture and the presence of diverse cuisines that heavily incorporate various meat products. Convenience stores represent another significant distribution channel, offering consumers easy access to processed and packaged meat products in residential areas. These stores have evolved to meet changing consumer needs by offering fresh and frozen meat products, while many have also established a digital presence through partnerships with delivery platforms.

GCC Edible Meat Market Geography Segment Analysis

GCC Edible Meat Market in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia dominates the GCC edible meat market, commanding approximately 55% of the total market value in 2024. The country's robust market position is supported by its comprehensive approach to meat production and distribution, with a particular focus on poultry meat, which accounts for the largest share of consumption. The government's commitment to increasing domestic production is evident through various initiatives, including the NIDLP program that aims to establish specialized manufacturing clusters linking farmers, manufacturers, packaging plants, and retail companies. The country's strategic focus on developing local production capabilities has led to significant investments in meat processing facilities and cold storage infrastructure. Saudi Arabia's meat market is characterized by a strong preference for fresh and chilled products, particularly in the poultry segment, where domestic production has reached impressive self-sufficiency levels. The retail landscape is well-developed, with modern trade channels like supermarkets and hypermarkets playing a crucial role in meat distribution, while e-commerce platforms are gaining increasing prominence in meat retail.

GCC Edible Meat Market in Oman

Oman is emerging as a dynamic force in the GCC edible meat market, projected to achieve a growth rate of approximately 2% during 2024-2029. The country's meat market is undergoing significant transformation, driven by substantial investments in domestic production capabilities and modern retail infrastructure. The Oman Investment Authority's strategic initiatives have played a crucial role in developing the local meat industry, with notable projects like Al Bashayer Meat contributing to increased domestic production. The country has witnessed remarkable progress in achieving meat self-sufficiency, particularly in poultry production, with several new processing facilities being established. Oman's meat market is characterized by a strong preference for fresh and chilled products, especially in the mutton and poultry segments. The retail landscape is evolving rapidly, with modern trade formats gaining prominence and online meat delivery services experiencing significant growth. The country's focus on food security and sustainable meat production has led to increased investments in livestock farming and processing facilities.

GCC Edible Meat Market in United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates represents a sophisticated and diverse GCC meat market, characterized by its advanced retail infrastructure and strong focus on quality and food safety standards. The country's meat market benefits from its position as a major global trade hub, facilitating efficient import and distribution networks. The UAE's meat consumption patterns reflect its multicultural population, with a strong preference for poultry products due to their affordability and versatility. The retail landscape is highly developed, featuring state-of-the-art cold storage facilities and modern meat processing units. The country has made significant strides in domestic meat production, particularly in poultry farming, while maintaining strong import relationships with major global suppliers. The UAE's meat market is also witnessing rapid digitalization, with online meat delivery services gaining significant traction among urban consumers. The government's stringent food safety regulations and halal certification requirements ensure high-quality standards across the meat supply chain.

GCC Edible Meat Market in Kuwait

Kuwait's edible meat market demonstrates strong potential, supported by the country's high per capita consumption rates and well-developed distribution infrastructure. The market is characterized by a strong preference for fresh meat products, particularly in the poultry and mutton segments. Kuwait's meat retail sector is experiencing significant modernization, with supermarkets and hypermarkets expanding their meat sections and introducing innovative packaging solutions. The country's meat market benefits from efficient import channels and strong relationships with international suppliers, ensuring a steady supply of various meat products. Digital transformation in the retail sector has led to increased adoption of online meat ordering platforms, particularly in urban areas. The government's focus on food security has resulted in initiatives to enhance domestic meat production capabilities, although the market remains largely import-dependent. Kuwait's meat consumption patterns are influenced by its affluent population and strong preference for premium meat products.

GCC Edible Meat Market in Other Countries

The remaining GCC countries, including Bahrain and Qatar, contribute significantly to the regional GCC meat market dynamics. These markets share common characteristics such as high dependence on imports, strong preference for halal-certified products, and increasing adoption of modern retail formats. The meat markets in these countries are experiencing transformation through digital adoption and modernization of traditional retail channels. Consumer preferences in these markets are evolving, with increasing demand for convenient, processed meat products alongside traditional fresh meat options. The governments in these countries are actively working to enhance food security through investments in domestic production capabilities and modern storage facilities. The retail landscape continues to evolve with the expansion of supermarket chains and the growing popularity of online meat delivery services. These markets also benefit from strong logistics infrastructure and efficient distribution networks, ensuring a consistent supply of meat products to meet consumer demand.

GCC Edible Meat Industry Overview

Top Companies in GCC Edible Meat Market

The GCC edible meat market features prominent players like BRF SA, Tanmiah Food Company, The Savola Group, Siniora Food Industries, and Al Ain Farms leading the competitive landscape. Companies are increasingly focusing on product innovation through the introduction of new flavors, ready-to-cook options, and value-added meat products to cater to evolving consumer preferences. Operational agility has become crucial, with players investing in advanced cold storage facilities and distribution networks to ensure product freshness and market reach. Strategic partnerships, particularly between international meat producers and local companies, have emerged as a key trend to strengthen market presence and distribution capabilities. Companies are also expanding their production capacities through new plant establishments and acquisitions, while simultaneously developing their online presence to capture the growing e-commerce segment.

Market Structure Favors Large Integrated Players

The GCC meat market exhibits a fragmented structure with a mix of global meat processing giants and regional players competing for market share. Global players like BRF SA and JBS SA leverage their international supply chains and advanced processing capabilities, while regional players such as Tanmiah Food Company and Al Ain Farms capitalize on their local market knowledge and established distribution networks. The market has witnessed increased participation from conglomerates diversifying into the meat sector, particularly in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, bringing substantial financial resources and operational expertise.


The industry has seen significant merger and acquisition activity, primarily driven by the need to achieve economies of scale and expand geographical presence. International companies are increasingly seeking partnerships with local players to navigate regulatory requirements and establish stronger regional footprints. Local players are also pursuing vertical integration strategies, investing in farming operations, processing facilities, and distribution networks to enhance their competitive position and reduce dependence on imports.

Innovation and Integration Drive Future Success

Success in the GCC edible meat market increasingly depends on companies' ability to innovate across their value chain while maintaining strict compliance with halal requirements and food safety standards. Players must invest in advanced processing technologies and cold chain infrastructure to ensure product quality and extend shelf life. Building strong relationships with retail chains and food service operators is becoming crucial as these channels continue to dominate meat distribution. Companies need to develop robust online presence and delivery capabilities to capture the growing e-commerce segment while maintaining traditional distribution channels.


Market contenders can gain ground by focusing on niche segments such as premium meat products or specific ethnic preferences, while also investing in local production facilities to benefit from government support programs. The ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences, particularly the growing demand for convenient and processed meat products, will be crucial for market success. Companies must also prepare for potential regulatory changes regarding food security and local production requirements, while maintaining efficient supply chains to manage cost pressures and ensure consistent product availability.

GCC Edible Meat Market Leaders

  1. Al Ain Farms

  2. BRF S.A.

  3. Siniora Food Industries Company

  4. Tanmiah Food Company

  5. The Savola Group

  6. *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
GCC Edible Meat Market Concentration
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GCC Edible Meat Market News

  • July 2022: BRF Sadia inaugurated its new plant, 'Al Joody,' in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, which helps in increasing its monthly production capacity to 1,200 tons of food. which will play an integral role in the growth and development of the poultry industry locally, in the interest of the Saudi consumer.
  • July 2022: Tyson Foods and Tanmiah of Saudi Arabia signed strategic partnership. The strategic partnership is expected to accelerate Tyson Foods’ and Tanmiah’s growth and generate significant value in the short and long term.
  • May 2022: JBS has acquired two plants in the MENA (the Middle East and North Africa) region to produce prepared foods. They are located in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates and produce value-added products. This expansion helps increase market penetration, strengthening distribution channels and client relationships.

GCC Edible Meat Market Report - Table of Contents

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY & KEY FINDINGS

2. INTRODUCTION

  • 2.1 Study Assumptions & Market Definition
  • 2.2 Scope of the Study​
  • 2.3 Research Methodology

3. KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS

  • 3.1 Price Trends
    • 3.1.1 Beef
    • 3.1.2 Mutton
    • 3.1.3 Poultry
  • 3.2 Production Trends
    • 3.2.1 Beef
    • 3.2.2 Mutton
    • 3.2.3 Poultry
  • 3.3 Regulatory Framework
    • 3.3.1 Saudi Arabia
    • 3.3.2 United Arab Emirates
  • 3.4 Value Chain & Distribution Channel Analysis

4. MARKET SEGMENTATION (includes market size in Value in USD, Forecasts up to 2030 and analysis of growth prospects)

  • 4.1 Type
    • 4.1.1 Beef
    • 4.1.2 Mutton
    • 4.1.3 Poultry
    • 4.1.4 Other Meat
  • 4.2 Form
    • 4.2.1 Canned
    • 4.2.2 Fresh / Chilled
    • 4.2.3 Frozen
    • 4.2.4 Processed
  • 4.3 Distribution Channel
    • 4.3.1 Off-Trade
    • 4.3.1.1 Convenience Stores
    • 4.3.1.2 Online Channel
    • 4.3.1.3 Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
    • 4.3.1.4 Others
    • 4.3.2 On-Trade
  • 4.4 Country
    • 4.4.1 Bahrain
    • 4.4.2 Kuwait
    • 4.4.3 Oman
    • 4.4.4 Qatar
    • 4.4.5 Saudi Arabia
    • 4.4.6 United Arab Emirates

5. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

  • 5.1 Key Strategic Moves
  • 5.2 Market Share Analysis
  • 5.3 Company Landscape
  • 5.4 Company Profiles (includes Global level Overview, Market level overview, Core Business Segments, Financials, Headcount, Key Information, Market Rank, Market Share, Products and Services, and analysis of Recent Developments)
    • 5.4.1 Al Ain Farms
    • 5.4.2 Al Islami Foods
    • 5.4.3 Americana Group
    • 5.4.4 BRF S.A.
    • 5.4.5 Golden Gate Meat Company
    • 5.4.6 JBS SA
    • 5.4.7 Najmat Taiba Foodstuff LLC
    • 5.4.8 Qatar Meat Production Company
    • 5.4.9 Siniora Food Industries Company
    • 5.4.10 Sunbulah Group
    • 5.4.11 Tanmiah Food Company
    • 5.4.12 The Savola Group

6. KEY STRATEGIC QUESTIONS FOR MEAT INDUSTRY CEOS

7. APPENDIX

  • 7.1 Global Overview
    • 7.1.1 Overview
    • 7.1.2 Porter’s Five Forces Framework
    • 7.1.3 Global Value Chain Analysis
    • 7.1.4 Market Dynamics (DROs)
  • 7.2 Sources & References
  • 7.3 List of Tables & Figures
  • 7.4 Primary Insights
  • 7.5 Data Pack
  • 7.6 Glossary of Terms
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GCC Edible Meat Industry Segmentation

Beef, Mutton, Poultry are covered as segments by Type. Canned, Fresh / Chilled, Frozen, Processed are covered as segments by Form. Off-Trade, On-Trade are covered as segments by Distribution Channel. Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates are covered as segments by Country.
Type Beef
Mutton
Poultry
Other Meat
Form Canned
Fresh / Chilled
Frozen
Processed
Distribution Channel Off-Trade Convenience Stores
Online Channel
Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
Others
On-Trade
Country Bahrain
Kuwait
Oman
Qatar
Saudi Arabia
United Arab Emirates
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GCC Edible Meat Market Research FAQs

How big is the GCC Edible Meat Market?

The GCC Edible Meat Market size is expected to reach USD 11.73 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 1.73% to reach USD 12.79 billion by 2030.

What is the current GCC Edible Meat Market size?

In 2025, the GCC Edible Meat Market size is expected to reach USD 11.73 billion.

Who are the key players in GCC Edible Meat Market?

Al Ain Farms, BRF S.A., Siniora Food Industries Company, Tanmiah Food Company and The Savola Group are the major companies operating in the GCC Edible Meat Market.

Which segment has the biggest share in the GCC Edible Meat Market?

In the GCC Edible Meat Market, the Poultry segment accounts for the largest share by type.

Which country has the biggest share in the GCC Edible Meat Market?

In 2025, Saudi Arabia accounts for the largest share by country in the GCC Edible Meat Market.

What years does this GCC Edible Meat Market cover, and what was the market size in 2025?

In 2025, the GCC Edible Meat Market size was estimated at 11.73 billion. The report covers the GCC Edible Meat Market historical market size for years: 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the GCC Edible Meat Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.

GCC Edible Meat Market Research

Mordor Intelligence offers extensive expertise in analyzing the GCC meat market. We provide comprehensive insights into the region's edible meat industry dynamics. Our research methodology includes a detailed analysis of various meat categories. This approach gives stakeholders a complete edible meat list, covering everything from conventional to specialty products. The report includes extensive data on market dynamics. It also explains how to name an edible meat product category based on regional preferences and consumption patterns.

This detailed market analysis benefits stakeholders across the value chain, from producers to retailers. It offers insights into the GCC nutrition chemicals market revenue by form and its impact on meat processing. The report is available in an easy-to-read PDF format for download. It covers even the longest name edible meat products in specialized categories, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all market segments. Our analysis provides actionable intelligence for business strategy development. This includes a detailed examination of regulatory frameworks, consumer preferences, and emerging market opportunities in the GCC region.