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

The GCC Red Meat Market is segmented by Type (Beef, Mutton), 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 Red Meat Market SIZE & SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS & FORECASTS UP TO 2030

GCC Red Meat Market Size

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GCC Red Meat Market Summary
Study Period 2017 - 2030
Base Year For Estimation 2024
Forecast Data Period 2025 - 2030
Market Size (2025) USD 4 Billion
Market Size (2030) USD 4.4 Billion
CAGR (2025 - 2030) 1.89 %
Market Concentration Low

Major Players

GCC Red Meat Market Major Players

*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

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GCC Red Meat Market Analysis

The GCC Red Meat Market size is estimated at 4 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 4.4 billion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 1.89% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The GCC red meat industry is experiencing significant transformation driven by changing demographics and consumer preferences. Bahrain's population grew by 0.9% in 2023, reaching 1,485,509 residents, while maintaining a strong per capita disposable income of USD 22,707.50. This demographic evolution, coupled with an increasing expatriate population from Western and Asian nations, has led to diversification in red meat consumption patterns. Quality, Halal certification, and taste have emerged as primary factors influencing consumer purchasing decisions, with sustainability considerations taking a secondary role. The industry has adapted by expanding product offerings to cater to these evolving preferences while maintaining strict adherence to religious and cultural requirements.


The retail landscape for red meat distribution is undergoing substantial modernization across the GCC region. Major developments include Amazon's selection of Abu Dhabi as its Middle Eastern logistics hub, scheduled to open in 2024 with a facility spanning 175,000 square meters. This infrastructure expansion is complemented by innovations in retail technology, exemplified by the launch of the region's first completely automated cashier-less store, Carrefour City+, in September 2023. These advancements are reshaping how consumers access and purchase red meat products, with particular emphasis on maintaining cold chain integrity and product freshness.


Religious and cultural factors continue to shape market dynamics while simultaneously accommodating diverse consumer segments. The UAE's Christian population, comprising 12.9% of residents in 2022, has influenced the availability of various meat products, including pork, in designated retail sections. This demographic diversity has prompted retailers to develop sophisticated segregation systems and specialized storage solutions to respect religious requirements while meeting diverse consumer needs. The industry has responded by implementing strict protocols for product handling and display, ensuring compliance with both religious requirements and food safety standards.


The GCC meat market is witnessing significant evolution in consumption patterns and preferences across different meat categories. Bahrain leads in beef consumption with 15.80 kg per capita in 2023, highlighting the growing appetite for premium meat products. The industry has responded by enhancing cold chain infrastructure and expanding processing capabilities. For instance, A.P. Moller - Maersk's development of a new cold storage facility at King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam demonstrates the focus on improving supply chain efficiency. These infrastructure investments are complemented by technological advancements in meat processing and packaging, ensuring product quality and extending shelf life while maintaining compliance with regional regulatory requirements.

Segment Analysis: Type

Mutton Segment in GCC Red Meat Market

Mutton dominates the GCC red meat market, commanding approximately 53% of the total market value in 2024. The segment's strong performance is primarily driven by cultural preferences and traditional dietary habits across the Gulf region. Fresh and chilled mutton remains the most preferred form, particularly for traditional dishes like kebabs, koftas, and biryanis. The segment's growth is supported by robust import channels from major suppliers like Australia, New Zealand, and India, ensuring a steady supply to meet the high regional demand. Countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait are the major importers of mutton, with consumers showing an increasing preference for premium quality and grass-fed options. The segment's strength is further reinforced by the extensive presence of both modern retail channels and traditional meat markets that cater to specific consumer preferences for cuts and quality grades.

Market Analysis of GCC Red Meat Market: Chart for Type

Other Meat Segment in GCC Red Meat Market

The Other Meat segment, which primarily includes camel and horse meat, is projected to demonstrate the strongest growth trajectory in the GCC red meat market, with an anticipated CAGR of approximately 2% during 2024-2029. This growth is largely attributed to increasing consumer interest in alternative meat options and the cultural significance of camel meat in the region. Saudi Arabia leads the consumption of other meats, particularly camel meat, which is considered a delicacy and often served on special occasions. The segment's expansion is supported by government initiatives to develop the domestic camel meat industry, with significant investments in processing facilities and supply chain infrastructure. The processed meat category within this segment is showing particular promise, driven by changing consumer preferences and the development of innovative product offerings that cater to both traditional and modern consumption patterns.

Remaining Segments in Type Segmentation

The beef segment represents a significant portion of the GCC red meat market, serving as a crucial protein source for the region's diverse population. The segment's dynamics are shaped by substantial imports from major beef-producing nations, with fresh and chilled beef particularly popular among consumers. The market is witnessing a notable shift toward premium beef products, especially in countries focusing on tourism and hospitality sector development. The segment's growth is supported by increasing shelf-life regulations for imported beef products and the expansion of cold chain infrastructure across the region. Additionally, the processed beef category is gaining traction, particularly in urban areas, driven by the rising demand for convenient food options among the working population.

Segment Analysis: Form

Fresh/Chilled Segment in GCC Red Meat Market

The fresh and chilled segment dominates the GCC red meat market, accounting for approximately 52% of the total market value in 2024. This significant market share is primarily driven by the strong cultural preference for fresh meat in traditional Middle Eastern cuisine, particularly in dishes like kebabs, shawarma, and grilled meats. The segment's dominance is further reinforced by consumer perception of fresh meat having superior quality, better flavor, and texture compared to other forms. Major retail chains and local butcher shops across the GCC region have invested heavily in cold chain infrastructure to maintain the quality and freshness of meat products, while key players like Almunajem Foods and Tanmiah Food Group have established dedicated facilities to serve the fresh mutton segment specifically.

Processed Segment in GCC Red Meat Market

The processed meat segment is projected to be the fastest-growing category in the GCC red meat market during 2024-2029, with an expected growth rate of approximately 3% annually. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for ready-to-eat meals, particularly among the growing working population and expatriate communities in the region. The rapid expansion of various online and offline retail channels, coupled with the establishment of numerous quick-service restaurants across the Middle East, has propelled the sales of packaged processed products. The segment's growth is further supported by significant investments in meat processing facilities by both regional and international players, along with technological advancements in processing and packaging methods that extend shelf life while maintaining halal compliance.

Remaining Segments in Form Segmentation

The frozen and canned segments complete the GCC red meat market's form segmentation, each serving distinct consumer needs and preferences. The frozen segment has gained significant traction due to its longer shelf life and convenience, particularly among expatriate communities and institutional buyers. This segment has benefited from improved cold chain infrastructure and storage facilities across the region. Meanwhile, the canned segment, while smaller in market share, maintains steady demand due to its convenience and longer shelf life, particularly in remote areas and for emergency food supplies. Both segments have seen increased adoption in the foodservice sector and retail channels, supported by improvements in packaging technology and preservation methods that maintain halal compliance and product quality.

Segment Analysis: Distribution Channel

On-Trade Segment in GCC Red Meat Market

The on-trade distribution channel dominates the GCC red meat market, accounting for approximately 60% of the total market value in 2024. This significant market share is primarily driven by the region's thriving food service industry, which caters to both locals and tourists. The segment's strength is particularly evident in countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, where a robust restaurant sector, coupled with high disposable incomes and a strong dining-out culture, continues to drive demand. The growth in religious tourism, particularly in Saudi Arabia, has further bolstered the on-trade segment, with numerous restaurants and food service establishments serving halal-certified red meat products. Additionally, the segment has evolved to incorporate modern dining trends, including premium steakhouses and specialized meat restaurants, which cater to the region's affluent population and international visitors. The expansion of hotel chains and quick-service restaurants across GCC countries has also contributed significantly to the segment's dominant position.

Off-Trade Segment in GCC Red Meat Market

The off-trade distribution channel is emerging as the fastest-growing segment in the GCC meat market, projected to grow at approximately 2% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. This growth is being driven by several factors, including the increasing adoption of e-commerce platforms and digital payment solutions across the region. The segment is witnessing significant investments in cold chain infrastructure and last-mile delivery capabilities, particularly in major cities across Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Modern retail formats are increasingly incorporating advanced meat processing and packaging technologies to ensure product quality and extend shelf life. The segment's growth is further supported by the rising trend of home cooking and meal preparation, especially among the younger population and working professionals. Additionally, retailers are expanding their premium meat offerings and implementing strict quality control measures to meet the growing consumer demand for high-quality, traceable meat products.

Remaining Segments in Distribution Channel

Within the off-trade channel, various sub-segments play crucial roles in shaping the market dynamics. Supermarkets and hypermarkets serve as primary retail destinations, offering a wide range of fresh, frozen, and processed meat products under one roof. Convenience stores cater to immediate consumption needs and are particularly important in residential areas and business districts. The online channel, though relatively newer, is rapidly evolving with specialized meat delivery platforms and e-commerce solutions. Other distribution channels, including traditional butcher shops and specialty meat stores, continue to serve specific consumer segments with customized cutting and processing services. Each of these channels contributes uniquely to the market's development by catering to different consumer preferences and shopping behaviors across the GCC region.

GCC Red Meat Market Geography Segment Analysis

Red Meat Market in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia dominates the GCC red meat market, commanding approximately 34% of the total market value in 2024. The country's robust market position is driven by its large population base and strong consumer preference for premium red meat products. The market is characterized by a growing demand for both fresh and processed red meat products, with beef emerging as the most consumed meat type. The country's regulatory bodies are actively encouraging local producers to boost meat production to cater to the surging demand. The growing automation in meat processing facilities and cold chain infrastructure has significantly improved the quality and availability of red meat products. The rise in the working women population and changing dietary preferences have led to increased consumption of processed red meat products. The country has also seen significant investments in meat processing units and cold storage facilities to ensure a consistent supply throughout the year.

Red Meat Market in Oman

Oman's red meat market is projected to grow at approximately 2% during 2024-2029, driven by strategic investments in the meat processing industry. The country's government is actively investing in integrated livestock rearing and meat processing projects through initiatives like the Al Bashayer Meat Project. The growing automation in meat processing facilities and increasing focus on local production capabilities are reshaping the market dynamics. Beef constitutes the largest segment, with fresh and chilled forms being particularly popular among consumers. The rise in disposable income and changing consumption patterns from carbohydrate-rich to protein-rich diets are driving market growth. The country's meat processing industry is witnessing significant technological advancements, improving production efficiency and product quality. The market is also benefiting from the growing tourism sector and increasing expatriate population, which is driving demand for diverse meat products and cuts.

Red Meat Market in United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates' red meat market is characterized by its sophisticated distribution network and strong import infrastructure. The country has established itself as a major hub for meat trade in the region, with well-developed cold chain facilities and processing units. Mutton remains the predominant meat type, particularly popular in traditional dishes and during festive seasons. The market is witnessing increased demand for premium quality red meat products, driven by the country's large expatriate population and robust tourism sector. The UAE has also made significant strides in science-led farming, particularly in breeding sheep adapted to the warmer Gulf climate. The country's focus on food security has led to investments in local production capabilities while maintaining strong import relationships with major meat-producing nations. The market is also seeing rapid growth in processed red meat products, catering to the busy urban lifestyle of its population.

Red Meat Market in Kuwait

Kuwait's red meat market demonstrates strong growth potential, supported by its robust retail infrastructure and evolving consumer preferences. The country has liberalized its regulations on shelf life for chilled meat products, enhancing market efficiency and product availability. Mutton dominates the market, particularly in fresh and chilled forms, reflecting traditional dietary preferences. The government's focus on increasing domestic production and processing capabilities is reshaping the market landscape. The country has witnessed significant growth in modern retail formats, improving accessibility to various meat products. Kuwait's meat processing industry is undergoing modernization, with companies investing in advanced technologies and cold chain infrastructure. The market is also benefiting from the growing food delivery services and e-commerce platforms, making premium red meat products more accessible to consumers.

Red Meat Market in Other Countries

The red meat markets in Bahrain and Qatar exhibit unique characteristics shaped by their respective demographic and economic factors. Bahrain's market is influenced by its high per capita consumption of red meat and growing tourism sector, while Qatar's market is driven by its focus on achieving self-sufficiency in meat production. Both countries are witnessing significant investments in meat processing infrastructure and cold chain facilities. The markets are characterized by a strong presence of international brands and a growing preference for premium red meat products. These countries are also experiencing rapid growth in modern retail formats and online meat delivery services, catering to changing consumer preferences and lifestyles. The governments in these regions are implementing supportive policies to enhance local production capabilities while maintaining quality standards through strict regulatory frameworks.

GCC Red Meat Industry Overview

Top Companies in GCC Red Meat Market

The competitive landscape of the GCC red meat market is characterized by a mix of global and regional players focusing on strategic expansion and innovation. Companies are actively investing in enhancing production capacity, particularly through new manufacturing facilities and cold storage units to strengthen their regional presence. Product innovation remains a key focus area, with firms developing new red meat variants and value-added products tailored to local preferences and halal requirements. Operational agility is demonstrated through the establishment of robust distribution networks and partnerships with local retailers and foodservice operators. Strategic moves in the market predominantly revolve around expanding production capabilities, securing halal certifications, and developing direct-to-consumer channels through both traditional and digital platforms.

Market Dominated by Diversified Food Conglomerates

The red meat market in the GCC exhibits a relatively fragmented structure, with major players including both multinational food corporations and regional meat processing specialists. Global players leverage their extensive research and development capabilities, established supply chains, and international sourcing networks to maintain their competitive edge. Regional players, particularly those based in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, capitalize on their local market knowledge, established distribution networks, and understanding of regional taste preferences. The market is characterized by a strong presence of diversified food conglomerates that operate across multiple segments of the food industry, allowing them to benefit from economies of scale and integrated operations.


The market has witnessed increasing consolidation through strategic partnerships and joint ventures, particularly between international meat processors and local distributors. These collaborations aim to combine global expertise with local market access and distribution capabilities. Vertical integration strategies are becoming more prevalent, with companies investing in their own farming operations, processing facilities, and retail networks to ensure better control over the supply chain and maintain product quality standards. The competitive dynamics are further influenced by government initiatives promoting domestic meat production and processing capabilities.

Innovation and Local Presence Drive Success

For incumbent players to maintain and expand their market share, developing strong local manufacturing and distribution capabilities is crucial. Companies need to focus on product innovation, particularly in value-added and convenience red meat products that cater to changing consumer preferences and lifestyles. Building strong relationships with local retailers and foodservice operators, investing in cold chain infrastructure, and maintaining strict quality and halal compliance standards are essential success factors. Digital transformation initiatives, including e-commerce platforms and direct-to-consumer channels, are becoming increasingly important for market leadership.


New entrants and challenger brands can gain ground by focusing on niche market segments and developing specialized product offerings. Success factors include establishing partnerships with local distributors, investing in marketing and brand-building activities, and ensuring strict adherence to regional quality and religious requirements. Companies must also consider the growing importance of sustainability practices, animal welfare standards, and transparency in sourcing. The regulatory environment, particularly regarding food safety and halal certification, continues to shape competitive strategies, while the risk of substitution from alternative protein sources necessitates continuous innovation and adaptation of product portfolios.

GCC Red Meat Market Leaders

  1. BRF S.A.

  2. JBS SA

  3. Tanmiah Food Company

  4. The Organic Meat Company Ltd

  5. The Savola Group

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

  • February 2023: Saudi-based Tanmiah Food Company and US-based Tyson Foods Inc. renewed their partnership signed previously in 2022. The partnership was signed in order to recognize the potential growth opportunities across Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East.
  • July 2022: Tanmiah Food Company and Tyson Foods entered a strategic partnership to expand meat production capacity. The investment is expected to enable Tanmiah Food Company to access the high demand for protein in the Middle East and other international markets.
  • December 2021: Tanmiah Food Company’s wholly owned subsidiary Gulf Brand Fast Food Co. signed a master franchise and development agreement with Popeyes, an international quick service restaurant chain, to diversify across the value chain by offering high-quality food options, including Popeyes Chicken Sandwich made from fresh and locally sourced fresh chicken.

GCC Red 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
  • 3.2 Production Trends
    • 3.2.1 Beef
    • 3.2.2 Mutton
    • 3.2.3 Pork
  • 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 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 Almunajem Foods
    • 5.4.2 BRF S.A.
    • 5.4.3 Golden Gate Meat Company
    • 5.4.4 JBS SA
    • 5.4.5 Kibsons International LLC
    • 5.4.6 Tanmiah Food Company
    • 5.4.7 The Organic Meat Company Ltd
    • 5.4.8 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 Red Meat Industry Segmentation

Beef, Mutton 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
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 Red Meat Market Research FAQs

How big is the GCC Red Meat Market?

The GCC Red Meat Market size is expected to reach USD 4.00 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 1.89% to reach USD 4.40 billion by 2030.

What is the current GCC Red Meat Market size?

In 2025, the GCC Red Meat Market size is expected to reach USD 4.00 billion.

Who are the key players in GCC Red Meat Market?

BRF S.A., JBS SA, Tanmiah Food Company, The Organic Meat Company Ltd and The Savola Group are the major companies operating in the GCC Red Meat Market.

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

In the GCC Red Meat Market, the Mutton segment accounts for the largest share by type.

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

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

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

In 2025, the GCC Red Meat Market size was estimated at 4.00 billion. The report covers the GCC Red Meat Market historical market size for years: 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the GCC Red Meat Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.

GCC Red Meat Market Research

Mordor Intelligence provides a comprehensive analysis of the GCC meat market. We leverage our extensive research capabilities, including detailed market photos from banks and industry documentation. Our expertise covers the entire red meat industry, with a particular focus on the Saudi Arabia red meat market dynamics. The report offers crucial insights into regional consumption patterns. It also examines international trade dynamics, including beef export rankings from India 2023 for competitive context.

This detailed industry analysis covers both traditional red meat market segments and emerging alternatives like the GCC plant-based meat market. It offers stakeholders actionable intelligence for strategic decision-making. The report is available in an easy-to-download PDF format. It includes detailed market forecasts, regulatory framework analysis, and competitive landscape evaluation across the GCC region. Stakeholders benefit from our thorough examination of supply chain dynamics, consumer behavior trends, and price analysis. This enables informed business strategies and investment decisions.