Middle East Seafood Market SIZE & SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS & FORECASTS UP TO 2030

Middle East Seafood Market Analysis

The Middle East Seafood Market size is estimated at 22.13 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 24.3 billion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 1.88% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The Middle East seafood industry is experiencing significant transformation driven by changing consumer preferences and technological advancements in aquaculture. A notable shift towards healthier protein sources has emerged, particularly evident in regions with high obesity rates Kuwait, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia reporting over 25% of their population as obese in 2023. This health consciousness has led to increased investment in sustainable fishing practices and modern aquaculture facilities. The industry is also witnessing substantial demographic influences, with expatriate populations significantly impacting consumption patterns, particularly in the UAE where immigrants constitute 90% of the population, with Indians representing 40% of the total populace.

Infrastructure development and cold chain logistics are revolutionizing the fish and seafood distribution landscape across the Middle East. A prime example is Maersk's 2023 launch of a state-of-the-art cold store facility in Dubai Industrial City, featuring 12,500 pallet positions, significantly enhancing the region's seafood storage and distribution capabilities. This development is complemented by the region's robust digital infrastructure, with internet penetration reaching 83.9% in 2023, facilitating the growth of online marine food products retail and distribution channels.

Sustainability initiatives and government support are reshaping the industry's future trajectory. Saudi Arabia has made remarkable progress in domestic production, achieving 60% self-sufficiency with fish and seafood production reaching 119,000 tons in 2022. The UAE government's implementation of fuel subsidies for the fishing sector in 2023, in collaboration with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and national oil companies, demonstrates strong governmental commitment to supporting sustainable fishing practices and reducing operational costs for local fishermen.

Technological innovation in aquaculture is driving the industry's modernization, with countries investing heavily in advanced farming techniques and research facilities. The UAE has emerged as a pioneer in implementing recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), while Saudi Arabia's partnership with the Network of Aquaculture Centers in Asia-Pacific in 2023 signifies a major step toward adopting cutting-edge farming technologies. These developments are complemented by increasing per capita consumption rates, with the UAE recording 28.71 kg per person in 2022, indicating strong market demand and consumer acceptance of aquaculture products.

Middle East Seafood Market Trends

Production in the region is anticipated to grow due to self-sufficiency initiatives implemented by governments

• Saudi Arabia is the largest fish producer in the Middle East, producing 446,977 tons of fish in 2022. Fish production in Saudi Arabia increased by 6.48% from 2017 to 2022, followed by the United Arab Emirates, with 287091.9747 tons in 2022. Fish production increased gradually from 2021 to 2022, mainly due to the government's focus on fisheries. Governments are boosting opportunities to involve the private sector in fisheries. A unique program, the National Fisheries Development Program, aims to enhance the fisheries sector's contribution to GDP and increase the productivity of the aquaculture sector to 600 thousand tons in stages from 15 years to 2030. Regional centers for fishing academies have also been established to support fisheries. Over USD 80 million was invested in the research activities of fish to enhance production capabilities.
• Countries like the UAE have the highest annual per capita fish consumption in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which is nearly 50% higher than the global average. Despite rapid economic growth, the UAE's local fisheries are overfished, and local fish account for only 8% of UAE consumption.
• Fish production is projected to increase sustainably from 2023 to 2029. Support from the private sector and identification of fisheries for enhanced development, new partnerships with stakeholders and subsidies for fisheries, and the development of 3,000 fisheries with resource persons may help increase the production and productivity of fisheries from 2022. For instance, in 2021, NEOM Company and Tabuk Fish Company signed a memorandum of understanding to expand local aquaculture production and apply the new generation of aquaculture technologies in the NEOM region of Saudi Arabia.

Prices are rising due to the high dependency on imports

• In 2022, the United Arab Emirates had the highest fish prices compared to Saudi Arabia and the Rest of the Middle East, with the price difference being around USD 4,022 per ton. The difference was mainly due to more subsidies on fuel, infrastructure, and other associated costs by the Saudi Arabian government. It also has the added advantage of a 2,640 km coastline. The retail price range for United Arab Emirates (UAE) fish in June 2023 was between USD 4 and USD 20 per kg or between USD 1.81 and USD 9.07 per pound (lb). The prices in the Middle East increased mainly due to high demand, which exceeded the supply. The local fish supply decreased, and local production was hampered due to unfavorable climatic conditions in 2020 and 2021. The system of daily auctions for fish sales by fishermen enables buyers to strike good deals with them and resell their goods at higher prices, thus directly increasing retail consumer fish prices.
• From 2021 to 2022, fish prices increased by around 0.96%, from USD 3,043 to USD 3,072. The rising fish prices are mainly due to increasing oil prices and rising inflation. To curb this increase, the governments are launching relief measures, such as the UAE government doubling the budget to support low-income families in the country. Saudi Arabia’s King announced USD 5.33 billion for direct cash transfers and stockpiling. Fish prices may record a sustainable growth rate during the forecast period. Many public and private partnerships are being undertaken to enhance the production of fisheries in the Middle East. Saudi Arabia spent USD 80 million on research and planning to develop fish cultivation inland with master trainers to increase production, which may help with constant prices.

OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT

Segment Analysis: Type

Fish Segment in Middle East Seafood Market

Fish dominates the Middle East seafood market, commanding approximately 64% of the total market value in 2024. This substantial market share is primarily driven by the region's extensive coastline access and strong cultural preference for fish and seafood consumption. The United Arab Emirates leads the regional consumption with a per capita consumption rate significantly higher than the global average, supported by a large expatriate population that considers fish an essential part of their traditional cuisine. The segment's growth is further bolstered by government initiatives across the region, particularly in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, which have implemented comprehensive support measures including fuel subsidies and infrastructure development to enhance local fish production capabilities. The fresh/chilled fish segment particularly stands out as the most consumed form, with over 66% of residents in countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar consuming fresh fish at least once or twice a week.

Shrimp Segment in Middle East Seafood Market

The shrimp segment is experiencing remarkable growth in the Middle East seafood market, projected to expand at approximately 4% annually from 2024 to 2029. This growth trajectory is driven by several key factors, including increasing consumer awareness of shrimp's nutritional benefits and its growing popularity as a protein-rich option for weight-conscious consumers. The segment's expansion is particularly notable in the UAE, where significant investments are being made in shrimp farming infrastructure. For instance, the development of the region's first shrimp recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) farm aims to produce over 1,000 MT of shrimp annually. The processed shrimp category is showing particular promise, with frozen variants accounting for nearly 50% of overall shrimp sales, appealing to the region's growing working population seeking convenient meal options.

Remaining Segments in Type Segmentation

The other seafood segment, encompassing products like lobsters, crabs, and oysters, plays a vital role in diversifying the Middle Eastern seafood market. This segment caters to the premium market segment, particularly in luxury dining establishments and high-end retail outlets. The segment's growth is supported by the expanding tourism industry in the region, especially in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, where there is a strong demand for high-value marine food products. The development of advanced cold chain infrastructure and processing facilities has enabled better preservation and distribution of these premium seafood varieties, making them more accessible to consumers across the region. The canned and processed variants within this segment are gaining particular traction due to their convenience and longer shelf life.

Segment Analysis: Form

Fresh/Chilled Segment in Middle East Seafood Market

The fresh/chilled seafood segment dominates the Middle East seafood market, holding approximately 52% market share in 2024. This significant market position is driven by the region's strong cultural preference for fresh seafood, particularly in traditional Middle Eastern cuisine. The segment's dominance is further supported by the extensive coastline access of Middle Eastern countries, enabling a regular supply of fresh catches. The United Arab Emirates, with its sophisticated cold chain infrastructure and high-income consumer base, leads the consumption of fresh/chilled seafood in the region. The segment's growth is also bolstered by increasing health consciousness among consumers who prefer fresh seafood for its nutritional benefits and superior taste quality. Additionally, government initiatives supporting local fisheries and aquaculture development have helped maintain a steady supply of fresh seafood to meet the growing demand.

Processed Segment in Middle East Seafood Market

The processed seafood segment is emerging as the fastest-growing category in the Middle East seafood market, projected to grow at approximately 3% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. This growth is primarily driven by increasing urbanization and changing consumer lifestyles that demand convenient, ready-to-cook seafood options. The segment's expansion is supported by significant investments in processing facilities and cold chain infrastructure across the region. The United Arab Emirates leads this transformation with advanced processing capabilities and innovative product offerings. The growth is further accelerated by the rising number of working professionals seeking quick-preparation meal solutions while maintaining nutritional value. Modern retail formats and e-commerce platforms are playing a crucial role in making processed seafood more accessible to consumers, while manufacturers are introducing new value-added products to cater to diverse taste preferences.

Remaining Segments in Form Segmentation

The frozen and canned segments complete the Middle East seafood market's form segmentation, each serving distinct consumer needs. The frozen segment maintains a significant presence in the market, particularly popular among foodservice establishments and retail chains due to its longer shelf life and convenience in storage. This segment benefits from well-established cold chain infrastructure and increasing penetration of modern retail formats. The canned segment, while smaller in market share, plays a crucial role in providing shelf-stable seafood options, particularly important in regions with limited cold chain access. Both segments are witnessing technological advancements in preservation methods and packaging innovations to maintain product quality and meet evolving consumer preferences.

Segment Analysis: Distribution Channel

On-Trade Segment in Middle East Seafood Market

The on-trade distribution channel dominates the Middle Eastern seafood market, driven by the expansion of seafood restaurant chains and growing consumer preference for dining out. The segment's prominence is supported by the region's robust tourism industry and increasing disposable income, with approximately 42% of Middle Eastern consumers spending their disposable incomes on restaurant dining. Major restaurant chains are actively expanding their footprint, with UAE-originated seafood chain Golden Fork planning to open 20 more outlets across the country by 2024. The segment's growth is further bolstered by restaurants diversifying their menus to include both traditional and healthier seafood options, accommodating a wider range of dietary preferences. Governments across the region have implemented various support measures, including financial aid, tax relief, and loan programs, to assist the restaurant industry, strengthening the on-trade segment's market position. The segment's success is particularly evident in the UAE, which leads the on-trade channel segment with a market share of approximately 7% in 2024, attributed to increased tourism and multicuisine restaurants offering luxurious dining experiences.

Off-Trade Segment in Middle East Seafood Market

The off-trade segment is experiencing remarkable growth in the Middle East seafood market, projected to expand at approximately 3% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. This growth is primarily driven by the rapid evolution of e-commerce platforms and increasing internet penetration, which reached 83.9% in 2023. The segment's expansion is supported by the emergence of innovative online grocery delivery channels like Sadaf Foods and Hamle Market, catering to the growing consumer demand for convenience. Major retailers are actively enhancing their digital presence, with companies like Amazon significantly expanding their warehouse capacity in Dubai South and developing technologically advanced facilities in Abu Dhabi. The segment's growth is further accelerated by the increasing adoption of mobile shopping applications and the implementation of efficient cold chain logistics. Despite the preference for physical stores, with 56% of Middle Eastern consumers favoring in-store purchases, the off-trade segment continues to gain momentum through omnichannel strategies and enhanced digital capabilities.

Remaining Segments in Distribution Channel

Within the off-trade channel, various sub-segments play crucial roles in shaping the Middle East seafood market dynamics. Supermarkets and hypermarkets serve as primary retail points, offering a wide range of fresh, frozen, and processed seafood products with dedicated sections for fish and other seafood items. Convenience stores provide easily accessible options for quick purchases, particularly in urban areas, while maintaining temperature-controlled storage facilities to ensure product quality. The "others" category, including kiosks, vending machines, and unorganized distributors, caters to traditional market preferences and serves local communities, particularly during special occasions and religious events like Ramadan. These diverse distribution channels collectively ensure comprehensive market coverage and cater to varying consumer preferences across the region.

Middle East Seafood Market Geography Segment Analysis

Seafood Market in United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates dominates the Middle Eastern seafood market, holding approximately 6% of the total market value in 2024. The country's leadership in the seafood sector is driven by its diverse population base, with nearly 90% comprising immigrants who traditionally incorporate seafood into their daily diets. The UAE has positioned itself as a premium seafood destination, particularly appealing to high-income consumers who prioritize sustainable and organic fish products. The government actively supports the aquaculture sector through various initiatives, including fuel subsidies for the fishing sector, which has benefited hundreds of fishermen. The country's strategic location and sophisticated retail infrastructure have made it a hub for seafood distribution across the region. The UAE's commitment to food security has led to significant investments in aquaculture technology, including the development of recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and advanced cold storage facilities. The market is further strengthened by the country's robust tourism sector, which creates substantial demand through high-end restaurants and hotels.

Seafood Market in Bahrain

Bahrain's seafood market is projected to grow at approximately 2% annually from 2024 to 2029, marking it as the fastest-growing market in the region. The country's strategic focus on developing its aquaculture capabilities has positioned it as an emerging leader in seafood production. Bahrain's government has implemented comprehensive development plans, identifying multiple land plots specifically for fish farming initiatives. The country's approach to seafood development is particularly noteworthy for its emphasis on sustainable practices and technological innovation in aquaculture. Local authorities have established partnerships with international organizations to enhance production capabilities and implement modern farming techniques. The market is characterized by strong consumer preference for domestic seafood products, driven by the perception of better quality and sustainability. Bahrain's retail sector has evolved to accommodate this growth, with specialized seafood sections in major retail outlets and dedicated fish markets. The country's focus on reducing pressure on natural resources while maintaining food security has led to innovative approaches in fish farming and distribution.

Seafood Market in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia's seafood market demonstrates remarkable potential, supported by the country's ambitious Vision 2030 initiative. The kingdom has established itself as a significant player in the regional seafood industry through substantial investments in aquaculture infrastructure and technology. The market is characterized by a strong preference for fresh fish products, which account for a significant portion of seafood consumption. Saudi Arabia's strategic approach includes developing partnerships with international organizations and implementing advanced farming techniques to enhance production efficiency. The country has made significant strides in developing its aquaculture sector, with numerous fishing projects operational across various regions. Consumer preferences in Saudi Arabia are evolving, with increasing demand for both traditional seafood products and value-added processed items. The market benefits from well-established distribution networks and modern retail infrastructure, ensuring efficient delivery of seafood products across the vast geography of the kingdom.

Seafood Market in Oman

Oman's seafood market benefits from the country's extensive coastline and rich marine resources, positioning it as a significant player in the Middle Eastern seafood industry. The country has developed a robust fishing infrastructure supported by modern processing facilities and efficient distribution networks. Oman's strategic location provides it with access to diverse marine species, contributing to its varied seafood offering. The market is characterized by strong domestic consumption patterns, with seafood being an integral part of the local cuisine and culture. The government's focus on sustainable fishing practices and aquaculture development has helped maintain the balance between commercial fishing and resource conservation. Oman has also established itself as a significant exporter of high-quality seafood products, while simultaneously meeting domestic demand. The country's retail sector has evolved to include modern fish markets and specialized seafood sections in supermarkets, catering to changing consumer preferences. Notably, Oman Fisheries plays a crucial role in this development, enhancing the country's export capabilities.

Seafood Market in Other Countries

The seafood markets in Kuwait and Qatar exhibit distinct characteristics shaped by their unique geographical and demographic factors. Kuwait's market is characterized by its strong focus on traditional fishing practices combined with modern aquaculture initiatives, while Qatar has emphasized technological advancement in its seafood sector. Both countries have implemented comprehensive development strategies to enhance their domestic production capabilities and reduce dependence on imports. These markets benefit from high consumer purchasing power and sophisticated retail infrastructure, enabling the distribution of both local and imported seafood products. The governments in these countries have implemented various support measures for the fishing industry, including subsidies and technological assistance, to ensure sustainable growth and food security. The retail landscape in these markets continues to evolve, with an increasing presence of specialized seafood outlets and modern distribution channels catering to diverse consumer preferences. The seafood Middle East market continues to show dynamic growth, driven by these strategic initiatives.

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