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

The GCC Foodservice Market is segmented by Foodservice Type (Cafes & Bars, Cloud Kitchen, Full Service Restaurants, Quick Service Restaurants), by Outlet (Chained Outlets, Independent Outlets), by Location (Leisure, Lodging, Retail, Standalone, Travel) and by Country (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates). Market Value in USD is presented. Key data points observed include the number of outlets for each foodservice channel; and, average order value in USD by foodservice channel.

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

GCC Foodservice Market Size

GCC Foodservice Market Summary
Study Period 2018 - 2030
Base Year For Estimation 2024
Forecast Data Period 2025 - 2030
Market Size (2025) USD 61.55 Billion
Market Size (2030) USD 109.9 Billion
CAGR (2025 - 2030) 12.29 %
Market Concentration Low

Major Players

GCC Foodservice Market Major Players

*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

Compare market size and growth of GCC Foodservice Market with other markets in Food & Beverage Industry

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GCC Foodservice Market Analysis

The GCC Foodservice Market size is estimated at 61.55 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 109.9 billion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 12.29% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The GCC foodservice market is experiencing significant transformation driven by changing consumer preferences and digital innovation. The region's dining landscape has evolved considerably, with approximately 40% of the population dining out frequently on a weekly basis, reflecting the strong eating-out culture. This shift is particularly evident in urban centers where busy lifestyles and increasing disposable incomes have made restaurant dining a regular social activity. The integration of technology has revolutionized the ordering process, with major delivery platforms enhancing their service offerings through features like heat bags, 30-minute delivery guarantees, and contactless payment options. The digital transformation is further exemplified by the success of food delivery apps in the region, with market leaders like Getir, Uber Eats, and Deliveroo collectively accounting for tens of millions of downloads.


The industry is witnessing a notable shift towards diverse culinary offerings while maintaining strong ties to traditional Middle Eastern cuisine. The region's meat consumption reached 0.45 million metric tons in 2022, driving the popularity of both traditional and international meat-based dishes. This trend has led to the emergence of hybrid menus that combine local flavors with international cooking techniques, particularly evident in the rising number of fusion restaurants. Quick service restaurants are adapting their menus to include both international favorites and localized offerings, with chains like TGI Friday's, KFC, and Burger King expanding their footprint while incorporating regional flavors and preferences.


The coffee and café culture has emerged as a significant trend in the GCC foodservice sector, particularly in the UAE where coffee consumption has reached remarkable levels with over six million cups consumed daily and annual spending of USD 630 million on coffee. This growth has led to the proliferation of both international coffee chains and local specialty coffee shops, each offering unique experiences and premium products. Dubai alone hosts more than 13,000 cafes and eateries, serving an estimated population of 3.5 million, highlighting the density and competitiveness of the market.


The rise of cloud kitchens represents a revolutionary shift in the region's foodservice operational model. This transformation is particularly evident in Kuwait, where high internet penetration reaching 99% of the population (approximately 4.31 million users) has created an ideal environment for digital foodservices. These delivery-only kitchens are revolutionizing the traditional restaurant model by optimizing operational costs and expanding delivery reach. The success of platforms like Talabat, Deliveroo, and Get Dukan has created a robust ecosystem for cloud kitchens, enabling them to serve multiple brands from a single location while maintaining quality and efficiency in food preparation and delivery.

Segment Analysis: Foodservice Type

Full Service Restaurants Segment in GCC Foodservice Market

Full Service Restaurants (FSR) dominate the GCC foodservice market, commanding approximately 47% market share in 2024. This significant market position is driven by the high frequency of dining out in the region, with around 40% of the population regularly choosing FSR establishments for their meals on a weekly basis. The segment's strong performance is further supported by the increasing tourism activity and rising consumer spending on food across GCC countries. FSRs have successfully captured consumer interest by offering diverse cuisines, with Middle Eastern and Asian cuisines being particularly popular among both locals and tourists. The segment's growth is also attributed to the rising number of premium and fine-dining establishments, especially in countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, where there is a strong demand for high-quality dining experiences.

Market Analysis of GCC Foodservice Market: Chart for Foodservice Type

Cloud Kitchen Segment in GCC Foodservice Market

The cloud kitchen segment is experiencing remarkable growth in the GCC foodservice market, projected to expand at approximately 16% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. This explosive growth is primarily driven by the increasing penetration of food delivery services and the rising number of smartphone users across the region. Major food delivery platforms like Deliveroo, Talabat, and Uber Eats are actively expanding their operations and partnering with cloud kitchen operators to offer customers a wider variety of meal options. The segment's growth is further accelerated by significant investments in cloud kitchen startups, with companies receiving substantial funding to expand their operations across the GCC region. The adoption of advanced delivery techniques, digital payment systems, and innovative operational models has made cloud kitchens increasingly attractive to both entrepreneurs and consumers.

Remaining Segments in Foodservice Type

The Quick Service Restaurants (QSR) and Cafes & Bars segments continue to play vital roles in shaping the GCC foodservice market landscape. The QSR segment has maintained strong momentum through international chain expansions and the introduction of localized menu offerings that cater to regional tastes. Meanwhile, the Cafes & Bars segment has evolved significantly, particularly in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, where specialty coffee shops and modern café concepts have gained substantial popularity. Both segments have embraced technological innovations, including digital ordering systems and loyalty programs, while also focusing on menu diversification and customer experience enhancement to maintain their competitive edge in the market.

Segment Analysis: Outlet

Independent Outlets Segment in GCC Foodservice Market

Independent outlets dominate the GCC foodservice market, commanding approximately 60% market share in 2024. The segment's strong performance is particularly evident in Saudi Arabia, where independent full-service restaurants have established a significant presence due to the increasing demand for authentic ethnic food among millennials. These establishments have gained popularity by offering unique and authentic culinary experiences, especially catering to the growing tourist population in the region. Independent restaurants serving Middle Eastern, Chinese, Italian, and Asian cuisines have particularly embraced cultural influences, making them highly attractive to both locals and visitors. The success of independent outlets is further bolstered by their ability to adapt to local tastes and preferences while maintaining authenticity in their offerings.

Chained Outlets Segment in GCC Foodservice Market

The chained outlets segment is projected to exhibit robust growth at approximately 13% during the forecast period 2024-2029. This growth is primarily driven by the rapid expansion of international chains like McDonald's, KFC, Subway, Pizza Hut, Starbucks, and Burger King across the region. The segment's expansion is particularly notable in Saudi Arabia, where chained quick service restaurants have gained significant traction. Industry operators in the region are increasingly choosing to expand through franchising over company-operated locations due to the lower capital requirements and reduced risks involved with this growth method. The uniformity and predictability offered by chained restaurants at every location, owing to their reputable status, have made them the first choice for both dine-in and delivery customers.

Segment Analysis: Location

Standalone Segment in GCC Foodservice Market

The standalone segment continues to dominate the GCC foodservice market, accounting for approximately 73% market share in 2024. This significant market position is primarily driven by the increasing number of independent restaurants and international chains establishing standalone outlets across the region. The segment's growth is further supported by the rising local population's embrace of foodie culture, leading to increased demand for unique and authentic dining experiences. Standalone restaurants have pushed hotels to innovate in curating distinctive dining experiences and providing exceptional service. The segment has particularly benefited from the expansion of both local and international restaurant chains, with many operators choosing standalone locations to establish their brand presence. Full-service restaurants predominate in standalone locations, offering a wide range of regional and global cuisines in well-appointed establishments.

Lodging Segment in GCC Foodservice Market

The lodging segment is projected to exhibit the strongest growth trajectory in the GCC foodservice market during 2024-2029, with an expected growth rate of approximately 11%. This remarkable growth is primarily attributed to the robust expansion of the hospitality sector across GCC countries. The segment's growth is being driven by ambitious hotel development plans, particularly in key markets like Saudi Arabia, which plans to add significant hotel room capacity by 2030. The increasing penetration of dine-out options in luxury hotels has enabled consumers to explore gourmet dining experiences, while dinner buffets with diverse food and beverage offerings in fine-dining restaurants within luxury hotels continue to attract both local and international customers. The segment is also benefiting from the rising popularity of specialist coffee and tea shops within hotels, catering to the high consumption rates of coffee among locals in countries like the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Oman.

Remaining Segments in Location

The retail, leisure, and travel segments each play vital roles in shaping the GCC HORECA market landscape. The retail segment is characterized by foodservice establishments in shopping malls, supermarkets, and hypermarkets, offering convenient dining options for shoppers. The leisure segment encompasses restaurants in entertainment venues, movie theaters, and sporting facilities, providing specialized dining experiences for entertainment-seeking consumers. The travel segment, covering airports, railway stations, and cruise ships, serves the growing number of domestic and international travelers in the region. These segments collectively contribute to the diverse foodservice ecosystem in the GCC, each catering to specific consumer needs and occasions while adapting to local preferences and international trends.

GCC Foodservice Market Geography Segment Analysis

GCC Foodservice Market in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia dominates the GCC market foodservice landscape, commanding approximately 50% market share in 2024. The country's foodservice sector is characterized by a vibrant mix of traditional Middle Eastern and international cuisines, with Middle Eastern cuisine holding the largest share at around 45% of full-service restaurants. The market is particularly driven by its young demographic, with about 37% of the population under 25 years old, and approximately 85% of this young population preferring to eat out compared to dining at home. The country has witnessed significant expansion in both international and local restaurant chains, with more than 150 shopping malls housing various foodservice market establishments. The market has also seen a notable shift towards healthier options, with about 40% of Saudi consumers preferring healthy diet choices and willing to pay premium prices for healthier alternatives. Cloud kitchens are emerging as a significant trend, driven by the increasing adoption of food delivery services, with delivery app usage growing by 460% in recent years.

GCC Foodservice Market in United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates is positioned as the most dynamic market in the GCC restaurant sector, projected to grow at approximately 17% annually from 2024 to 2029. The market's robust growth is underpinned by its uniquely diverse population composition, with expatriates constituting about 89% of the total population, creating a rich multicultural foodservice landscape. This demographic diversity has fostered a vibrant food culture that seamlessly blends traditional Emirati cuisine with international flavors. The country's foodservice sector has evolved into a sophisticated ecosystem, particularly in Dubai, which hosts over 13,000 cafes and eateries. The market has witnessed significant innovation in service delivery, with over 250 cloud kitchens operating across the country, catering to the growing demand for convenient dining options. The UAE's position as a global tourism hub has further catalyzed the sector's growth, with Dubai alone receiving over 14.36 million international visitors, driving demand across various foodservice segments from luxury dining to casual eateries.

GCC Foodservice Market in Kuwait

Kuwait's foodservice market exhibits a strong preference for quick-service restaurants, which dominate the sector with a significant presence of both international and local chains. The market is characterized by its robust digital integration, with food delivery platforms experiencing substantial growth and over 1.04 million users actively engaging with meal delivery applications. The country's foodservice landscape is particularly influenced by its diverse expatriate population, especially from Asian countries, leading to a rich variety of cuisine offerings. Kuwait's market has shown remarkable adaptability to changing consumer preferences, with many establishments incorporating healthy menu options and international fusion dishes. The sector has also witnessed significant investment in cloud kitchen operations, driven by the increasing internet penetration and changing consumer behavior patterns. Local food entrepreneurs have been instrumental in introducing innovative concepts, while international chains continue to expand their presence through strategic locations across the country.

GCC Foodservice Market in Other Countries

The foodservice markets in Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar each present unique characteristics and growth opportunities within the GCC region. Bahrain's market is characterized by its strong cafe culture and growing preference for international cuisines, particularly Asian and Middle Eastern offerings. Oman's foodservice sector benefits from its growing tourism industry and strong traditional culinary heritage, with a particular emphasis on seafood and traditional Omani dishes. Qatar's market has evolved significantly, driven by its emphasis on luxury dining experiences and a growing trend toward casual dining establishments. These markets share common trends such as the increasing adoption of digital ordering platforms, growing preference for healthy food options, and the rise of cloud kitchens. The foodservice sectors in these countries continue to evolve, adapting to changing consumer preferences while maintaining their distinct cultural identities.

GCC Foodservice Industry Overview

Top Companies in GCC Foodservice Market

The GCC foodservice market features prominent players like MH Alshaya Co. WLL, Americana Restaurants International PLC, LuLu Group International, and McDonald's Corporation leading the competitive landscape. Companies are heavily focused on product innovation through the introduction of new menu items, specialty beverages, and health-conscious offerings to cater to evolving consumer preferences. Operational agility is demonstrated through the adoption of digital technologies, enhanced delivery capabilities, and implementation of efficient supply chain management systems. Strategic partnerships with food delivery platforms, technology providers, and local suppliers have become increasingly common to strengthen market presence. Companies are pursuing aggressive expansion strategies through new outlet openings, franchise agreements, and market penetration initiatives, particularly in high-growth areas across Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

Mixed Market Structure with Regional Leaders

The GCC market exhibits a relatively fragmented structure with a mix of global chains and regional players competing for market share. International conglomerates like McDonald's and Restaurant Brands International operate alongside strong regional players such as Alshaya and Americana, who leverage their deep understanding of local tastes and preferences. The market is characterized by the presence of diversified conglomerates that operate multiple brands across different foodservice segments, from quick-service restaurants to fine dining establishments. These major players benefit from economies of scale, established supply chains, and strong brand recognition across the region.


The market has witnessed increased consolidation activity through strategic acquisitions and partnerships, particularly in the quick-service restaurant segment. Regional players are actively pursuing franchise agreements with international brands to expand their portfolio and capture new market segments. The emergence of cloud kitchens and digital-first operators has introduced new competitive dynamics, while traditional players are adapting their business models to incorporate these trends. Local independent operators maintain a significant presence in specific segments, particularly in full-service restaurants and cafes, contributing to the market's diversity.

Innovation and Adaptation Drive Future Success

Success in the GCC restaurant market increasingly depends on companies' ability to innovate across multiple dimensions while maintaining operational excellence. Operators must focus on menu innovation, incorporating both international trends and local flavors to appeal to a diverse consumer base. Digital transformation, including robust online ordering systems, loyalty programs, and data analytics capabilities, has become crucial for maintaining competitive advantage. Companies need to optimize their real estate strategy, balancing traditional outlets with cloud kitchens and delivery-only locations to maximize market coverage while managing costs effectively.


Market players must navigate evolving regulatory requirements, particularly regarding food safety and localization initiatives across different GCC countries. Building strong relationships with local suppliers and developing efficient supply chain networks will become increasingly important for maintaining profitability and ensuring consistent quality. Companies need to focus on sustainability initiatives and healthy menu options to align with changing consumer preferences and regulatory requirements. For new entrants and smaller players, success will depend on identifying and serving niche market segments, developing unique value propositions, and leveraging technology to compete effectively with established players.

GCC Foodservice Market Leaders

  1. ALBAIK Food Systems Company SA

  2. Americana Restaurants International PLC

  3. MH Alshaya Co. WLL

  4. Riyadh International Catering Corporation

  5. Shahia Food Limited Company

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

  • October 2024: Dunkin opened its 800th store in Saudi Arabia in collaboration with Shahia Food Limited Company. The store offers a variety of menus and food products.
  • July 2024: Gong Cha brand opened its first store in Riyadh. Gong Cha is a Taiwanese bubble tea chain that partnered with Shahia Food Limited Company to expand its presence in Saudi Arabia.
  • January 2024: Gong Cha, a bubble tea chain partnered with Shahia Food Limited Company to expand its business across Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Germany. The company planned to open 300 outlets across the Middle East.

GCC Foodservice Market Report - Table of Contents

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY & KEY FINDINGS

2. REPORT OFFERS

3. INTRODUCTION

  • 3.1 Study Assumptions & Market Definition
  • 3.2 Scope of the Study​
  • 3.3 Research Methodology

4. KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS

  • 4.1 Number Of Outlets
    • 4.1.1 Bahrain
    • 4.1.2 Kuwait
    • 4.1.3 Oman
    • 4.1.4 Qatar
    • 4.1.5 Saudi Arabia
    • 4.1.6 United Arab Emirates
  • 4.2 Average Order Value
    • 4.2.1 Bahrain
    • 4.2.2 Kuwait
    • 4.2.3 Oman
    • 4.2.4 Qatar
    • 4.2.5 Saudi Arabia
    • 4.2.6 United Arab Emirates
  • 4.3 Regulatory Framework
    • 4.3.1 Bahrain
    • 4.3.2 Kuwait
    • 4.3.3 Oman
    • 4.3.4 Qatar
    • 4.3.5 Saudi Arabia
    • 4.3.6 United Arab Emirates

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

  • 5.1 Foodservice Type
    • 5.1.1 Cafes & Bars
    • 5.1.1.1 By Cuisine
    • 5.1.1.1.1 Bars & Pubs
    • 5.1.1.1.2 Cafes
    • 5.1.1.1.3 Juice/Smoothie/Desserts Bars
    • 5.1.1.1.4 Specialist Coffee & Tea Shops
    • 5.1.2 Cloud Kitchen
    • 5.1.3 Full Service Restaurants
    • 5.1.3.1 By Cuisine
    • 5.1.3.1.1 Asian
    • 5.1.3.1.2 European
    • 5.1.3.1.3 Latin American
    • 5.1.3.1.4 Middle Eastern
    • 5.1.3.1.5 North American
    • 5.1.3.1.6 Other FSR Cuisines
    • 5.1.4 Quick Service Restaurants
    • 5.1.4.1 By Cuisine
    • 5.1.4.1.1 Bakeries
    • 5.1.4.1.2 Burger
    • 5.1.4.1.3 Ice Cream
    • 5.1.4.1.4 Meat-based Cuisines
    • 5.1.4.1.5 Pizza
    • 5.1.4.1.6 Other QSR Cuisines
  • 5.2 Outlet
    • 5.2.1 Chained Outlets
    • 5.2.2 Independent Outlets
  • 5.3 Location
    • 5.3.1 Leisure
    • 5.3.2 Lodging
    • 5.3.3 Retail
    • 5.3.4 Standalone
    • 5.3.5 Travel
  • 5.4 Country
    • 5.4.1 Bahrain
    • 5.4.2 Kuwait
    • 5.4.3 Oman
    • 5.4.4 Qatar
    • 5.4.5 Saudi Arabia
    • 5.4.6 United Arab Emirates

6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

  • 6.1 Key Strategic Moves
  • 6.2 Market Share Analysis
  • 6.3 Company Landscape
  • 6.4 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).
    • 6.4.1 Al Tazaj Fakeih
    • 6.4.2 Alamar Foods Company
    • 6.4.3 ALBAIK Food Systems Company SA
    • 6.4.4 Americana Restaurants International PLC
    • 6.4.5 Galadari Ice Cream Co. Ltd LLC
    • 6.4.6 Herfy Food Service Company
    • 6.4.7 Kudu Company For Food And Catering
    • 6.4.8 LuLu Group International
    • 6.4.9 MH Alshaya Co. WLL
    • 6.4.10 Nando's Group Holdings Limited
    • 6.4.11 Riyadh International Catering Corporation
    • 6.4.12 Shahia Food Limited Company
    • 6.4.13 The Sultan Center

7. KEY STRATEGIC QUESTIONS FOR FOODSERVICE CEOS

8. APPENDIX

  • 8.1 Global Overview
    • 8.1.1 Overview
    • 8.1.2 Porter’s Five Forces Framework
    • 8.1.3 Global Value Chain Analysis
    • 8.1.4 Market Dynamics (DROs)
  • 8.2 Sources & References
  • 8.3 List of Tables & Figures
  • 8.4 Primary Insights
  • 8.5 Data Pack
  • 8.6 Glossary of Terms
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GCC Foodservice Industry Segmentation

Cafes & Bars, Cloud Kitchen, Full Service Restaurants, Quick Service Restaurants are covered as segments by Foodservice Type. Chained Outlets, Independent Outlets are covered as segments by Outlet. Leisure, Lodging, Retail, Standalone, Travel are covered as segments by Location. Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates are covered as segments by Country.
Foodservice Type Cafes & Bars By Cuisine Bars & Pubs
Cafes
Juice/Smoothie/Desserts Bars
Specialist Coffee & Tea Shops
Cloud Kitchen
Full Service Restaurants By Cuisine Asian
European
Latin American
Middle Eastern
North American
Other FSR Cuisines
Quick Service Restaurants By Cuisine Bakeries
Burger
Ice Cream
Meat-based Cuisines
Pizza
Other QSR Cuisines
Outlet Chained Outlets
Independent Outlets
Location Leisure
Lodging
Retail
Standalone
Travel
Country Bahrain
Kuwait
Oman
Qatar
Saudi Arabia
United Arab Emirates
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GCC Foodservice Market Research FAQs

How big is the GCC Foodservice Market?

The GCC Foodservice Market size is expected to reach USD 61.55 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 12.29% to reach USD 109.91 billion by 2030.

What is the current GCC Foodservice Market size?

In 2025, the GCC Foodservice Market size is expected to reach USD 61.55 billion.

Who are the key players in GCC Foodservice Market?

ALBAIK Food Systems Company SA, Americana Restaurants International PLC, MH Alshaya Co. WLL, Riyadh International Catering Corporation and Shahia Food Limited Company are the major companies operating in the GCC Foodservice Market.

Which segment has the biggest share in the GCC Foodservice Market?

In the GCC Foodservice Market, the Full Service Restaurants segment accounts for the largest share by foodservice type.

Which country has the biggest share in the GCC Foodservice Market?

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

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

In 2025, the GCC Foodservice Market size was estimated at 61.55 billion. The report covers the GCC Foodservice Market historical market size for years: 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the GCC Foodservice Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.

GCC Foodservice Market Research

Mordor Intelligence provides a comprehensive analysis of the GCC foodservice market, leveraging extensive expertise in the food service industry. Our analysis covers the entire HORECA market ecosystem, ranging from restaurants in the GCC to major chains like AlBaik and international brands. The report examines crucial segments, including GCC beverages, packaged food, and emerging trends in gluten-free products across the region. With a particular focus on the rapidly evolving Saudi Arabia food service market, our research offers detailed insights into consumer behavior, operational dynamics, and growth opportunities.

Stakeholders can access our detailed report PDF, which provides actionable intelligence on Middle Eastern foodservice providers and market dynamics. The analysis covers essential aspects of the GCC food industry, including pet food, ice cream, and beverage market segments. Our comprehensive coverage extends to digital transformation trends, such as Talabat delivery services and other technological innovations. The report benefits investors, operators, and suppliers by offering detailed analysis of market conditions, competitive landscapes, and growth opportunities across the foodservice market spectrum, with specific insights into key markets like Bahrain and Kuwait.