Middle East Poultry Meat Market Report | Market Size, Industry Analysis, Growth Opportunities, & Forecast (2025-2030)

Middle East Poultry Meat Market Overview

The Middle East Poultry Meat Market is witnessing steady growth, with an estimated market size of USD 16.27 billion in 2025, and is projected to reach USD 18.03 billion by 2030, expanding at a CAGR of 2.10% during the forecast period 2025-2030. The Middle East Poultry Meat Market is experiencing significant growth, driven by rising demand for protein-rich food and an expanding foodservice sector. Poultry meat, including chicken, turkey, duck, and geese, remains a staple in the region’s diet due to its affordability and versatility. The market is segmented by form (canned, fresh/chilled, frozen, and processed), distribution channel (off-trade and on-trade), and country (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE).

The on-trade segment, dominated by food service establishments such as restaurants and hotels, holds a large share of the market. With the growth of delivery platforms and the recovery of the food service industry post-pandemic, this segment is expected to continue expanding. On the other hand, the off-trade segment, which includes supermarkets, convenience stores, and online channels, is the fastest-growing segment, driven by e-commerce growth and increased internet penetration in the region. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of market trends, consumer preferences, key players, and future growth opportunities in the Middle East poultry meat industry, offering valuable insights for stakeholders seeking to capitalize on this evolving market.

Market Report Coverage:

The “Middle East Poultry Meat Market Report—Future (2025-2030)” by Digiroads Research & Consulting covers an in-depth analysis of the following segments in the market.

Study Assumptions and Definitions

In analyzing the Middle East Poultry Meat Market, several assumptions and definitions are critical for understanding the dynamics of the industry:

1. Meat: Defined as the flesh or other edible parts of animals intended for human consumption, with a focus on poultry meat (such as chicken, turkey, ducks, and geese). This report considers both uncooked meat and its processed variants (e.g., deli meats, sausages).
2. Poultry Meat: Refers to white meat from domesticated birds, primarily chickens, raised for consumption in the region. The market includes both fresh and processed forms of poultry.
3. Processed Poultry: Poultry meat that has undergone various preparation methods, including marination, seasoning, and cooking, to increase its shelf life or enhance flavor. Subcategories include deli meats, nuggets, sausages, and meatballs.
4. Distribution Channels:
   • On-Trade: Refers to the consumption of poultry meat in food service outlets, including restaurants, hotels, catering services, and other food service establishments.
   • Off-Trade: Involves the retail sale of poultry meat through supermarkets, convenience stores, online platforms, and other retail outlets.
5. Market Growth: Assumes a steady increase in consumer demand for poultry meat, driven by growing health consciousness, e-commerce growth, and the expanding food service industry in the Middle East.

Market Scope

The Middle East Poultry Meat Market encompasses a wide range of products, including fresh and processed poultry meats such as chicken, turkey, duck, and geese. The market analysis covers both domestic production and importation trends, focusing on key countries in the region, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, and others. The report evaluates market dynamics across various segments such as meat types (whole, cuts, processed), distribution channels (on-trade and off-trade), and consumer demographics.

The scope extends to market drivers such as growing health awareness, increasing demand for convenience foods, and the rise of fast-food chains. Additionally, the expansion of the food service industry, the increasing preference for halal-certified products, and the impact of e-commerce on poultry sales are also considered. The market scope further includes detailed competitive analysis, trends in production technologies, pricing strategies, and supply chain developments that influence the growth of poultry meat consumption in the Middle East.

MARKET OUTLOOK

Executive Summary

The Middle East Poultry Meat Market is experiencing significant growth driven by increasing consumer demand for convenient, affordable, and nutritious food options. Poultry meat, particularly chicken, is a staple in the Middle Eastern diet due to its versatility, affordability, and alignment with local dietary preferences, including halal certification. As a result, the market is expected to continue expanding, fueled by both domestic production and imports.

The report identifies two primary distribution channels in the region: on-trade and off-trade. The on-trade segment, driven by the growing food service industry, dominates poultry meat sales, with restaurants, hotels, and catering services playing a pivotal role. This trend has been bolstered by the post-pandemic shift toward food delivery services. On the other hand, the off-trade segment, particularly supermarkets, hypermarkets, and online platforms, is also witnessing rapid growth. E-commerce has gained momentum in the region due to increasing internet penetration, especially through mobile applications that facilitate meat delivery.

In terms of product offerings, fresh/chilled, frozen, and processed poultry products are the primary forms available in the market. Among processed products, deli meats, marinated products, and ready-to-cook items like sausages, meatballs, and nuggets are gaining popularity due to busy lifestyles and a preference for convenience.

Key countries analyzed in this report include Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, and Qatar. These countries are major consumers and producers of poultry meat, with varying market dynamics and growth potential. With a large young population and evolving consumer preferences, the Middle East Poultry Meat Market is positioned for robust growth in the coming years, supported by technological advancements in production, distribution, and marketing.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

The Middle East Poultry Meat Market is moderately fragmented, with regional and multinational players competing fiercely for market share.

Key Market Players

• Al Watania Poultry
• Almarai
• Savola Group

Market Share Analysis

The Middle East Poultry Meat Market is highly competitive, with a mix of local and international players vying for market share. The market is predominantly segmented into various forms of poultry meat such as canned, fresh/chilled, frozen, and processed products, with processed poultry meat gaining traction due to changing consumer preferences for convenience and ready-to-eat options. The distribution channels are also diverse, including off-trade segments such as supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, and online platforms, as well as on-trade segments like restaurants and food service outlets.

In terms of market share, on-trade channels dominate, driven by the growing food service industry, with nearly two-thirds of poultry meat products consumed through these outlets. The increasing popularity of food delivery services, particularly post-pandemic, further contributes to the sector’s growth. The off-trade segment, however, is witnessing rapid expansion, largely due to the rise of e-commerce and online grocery shopping.

Countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar lead the market in terms of consumption and production, benefiting from increasing consumer demand for poultry due to health considerations and the growing trend of experimenting with new food offerings. Local and international players continue to expand their footprint in these countries to capitalize on the rising demand for poultry products.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market Drivers and Key Innovations

Several key factors are driving the growth of the Middle East Poultry Meat Market. Rising consumer demand for protein-rich foods plays a significant role, as poultry is often seen as a healthier and more affordable alternative to red meat. Health and dietary preferences are shifting towards leaner meats, with poultry being favored due to its lower fat content and higher protein levels. Additionally, population growth and urbanization are expanding consumer bases, especially in key markets like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. As more people move to urban areas, demand for convenient and ready-to-eat food options, including processed poultry products, is rising.

The food service sector’s expansion, driven by the increase in restaurants, cafes, and fast-food outlets, is another key driver. The rise of food delivery services, particularly post-pandemic, has also boosted poultry consumption. Furthermore, government initiatives in many countries in the region, aimed at promoting local poultry production and reducing dependence on imports, are enhancing market stability and growth.

Key Innovations:

Innovations in the Middle East poultry market are focused on product diversification and convenience. There has been a rise in value-added processed poultry products like ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat meals, catering to the growing demand for convenience foods. Companies are also increasingly offering health-conscious options such as low-fat, organic, and antibiotic-free poultry products to meet consumer preferences for healthier, more sustainable food.

Technological advancements in packaging are also significant, with innovations such as vacuum-sealed and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) extending shelf life and ensuring freshness. Moreover, sustainable production practices, including improved animal welfare standards and eco-friendly packaging, are gaining traction among both producers and consumers.

Market Challenges

1. High Dependency on Imports: Many Middle Eastern countries rely heavily on poultry meat imports, making the market vulnerable to supply chain disruptions, price fluctuations, and geopolitical tensions.
2. Rising Feed Costs: The cost of feed, particularly for poultry, has been rising due to factors such as inflation, global trade issues, and the impact of climate change on crop production. This increases production costs and affects profit margins.
3. Competition from Alternative Protein Sources: With the growing trend of plant-based and lab-grown protein options, the poultry industry faces stiff competition, especially among health-conscious consumers seeking alternatives to animal-based proteins.
4. Regulatory Challenges: Strict food safety and halal certification regulations in the region require poultry producers to comply with stringent standards, which can increase operational costs and complicate the market entry process.
5. Fluctuating Consumer Preferences: Consumer preferences for poultry products can be unpredictable, with changing dietary habits influenced by health trends, cultural shifts, and economic factors. This can affect demand for certain types of poultry products.
6. Environmental and Sustainability Concerns: Growing concerns about the environmental impact of poultry farming, including issues related to waste management, water usage, and carbon emissions, pose challenges for producers striving for sustainable practices.
7. Disease Outbreaks: Poultry diseases, such as avian influenza, can have a devastating impact on the industry, leading to mass culling, loss of consumer confidence, and disruptions in the supply chain.
8. Price Sensitivity: Many consumers in the Middle East are highly price-sensitive, and economic downturns or fluctuations in household income can reduce demand for premium poultry products.

Market Opportunities

1. Rising Population and Urbanization: The growing population and rapid urbanization in the Middle East create a larger consumer base for poultry meat. As urban areas expand, demand for convenient and affordable protein sources like poultry is expected to rise.
2. Increasing Health Consciousness: As consumers become more health-conscious, there is a shift towards leaner meat options like poultry. This presents an opportunity for producers to market poultry as a healthier, lower-fat alternative to red meats.
3. Expanding Halal Meat Market: With the Middle East being home to a large Muslim population, the halal meat market presents significant growth opportunities. Offering halal-certified poultry products can help companies tap into this niche market and cater to religious and cultural preferences.
4. Growing Demand for Processed Poultry Products: There is a rising demand for processed poultry products such as frozen chicken, ready-to-cook meals, and value-added products. This trend reflects busy lifestyles and an increasing preference for convenience, providing opportunities for innovation and product diversification.
5. Technological Advancements in Poultry Farming: The adoption of advanced farming technologies such as precision farming, automation, and improved breeding practices can help increase production efficiency and reduce costs, providing a competitive edge to producers.
6. Government Support for Domestic Production: Many Middle Eastern governments are investing in and promoting local poultry production to reduce reliance on imports and strengthen food security. This creates an opportunity for producers to capitalize on government incentives and subsidies.
7. Export Potential to Other Regions: The Middle East can serve as a strategic export hub for poultry products to neighboring regions like Africa and Asia. Expanding export opportunities can help increase market reach and revenue.
8. Growing Trend of Sustainable and Ethical Production: Consumers are increasingly looking for sustainably produced food. Companies that focus on ethical and environmentally friendly poultry farming practices can differentiate themselves in the market and attract environmentally-conscious consumers.

RECENT STRATEGIES & DEVELOPMENTS IN THE MARKET

Expansion of Production Facilities:

• Companies are investing in new production facilities to meet the growing demand for poultry products. For instance, Al Watania Poultry in Saudi Arabia expanded its production capacity by 25% to enhance supply to both local and international markets.

Investment in Halal Certification:

• Major poultry producers like Almarai have increasingly focused on acquiring and maintaining halal certifications for their poultry products to cater to the region’s predominantly Muslim population. This ensures they meet the cultural and religious preferences of the target market.

Adoption of Automation and Technology:

• Poultry producers are increasingly investing in automation technologies to improve the efficiency of their operations. For example, Atyab has implemented advanced robotic systems in processing plants, reducing labor costs and increasing production speed.

Sustainability Initiatives:

• Companies such as Al Baik are adopting sustainable farming practices. They are focusing on reducing water usage, improving waste management systems, and enhancing the energy efficiency of their operations to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

Diversification into Processed and Ready-to-Eat Products:

• Producers like Emirates Modern Poultry Co. have expanded into value-added products like frozen chicken nuggets, chicken patties, and ready-to-cook meals to cater to the growing demand for convenience food among busy consumers.

Regional Expansion and Export Strategies:

• Companies are focusing on expanding their reach to neighboring markets. For instance, Al Watania Poultry has started exporting its products to North Africa and the GCC region to strengthen its presence in the global poultry market.

Strategic Partnerships and Mergers:

• Almarai, one of the largest food producers in the Middle East, recently formed a strategic partnership with SADAFCO to streamline its poultry supply chain and enhance its product offerings across the region.

Focus on Consumer Health and Wellness:

• Companies are innovating to meet rising health trends. Al Othaim has introduced organic and antibiotic-free poultry products in response to growing consumer demand for healthier and cleaner meat options.

Improved Distribution Networks:

• To cater to growing demand, leading poultry brands like Al Rawdah have been enhancing their distribution networks through direct-to-consumer models, online platforms, and increased retail presence in supermarkets and hypermarkets.

Government Support for Local Production:

• Various governments, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, have been implementing policies to support local poultry producers by providing subsidies and tax breaks. For example, the Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture has granted financial support to expand poultry production capacity, boosting local supply.

KEY BENEFITS FOR STAKEHOLDERS

Enhanced Market Insights for Investors:

• The growing demand for poultry meat in the Middle East presents lucrative opportunities for investors. By understanding market trends and consumer preferences, stakeholders can make informed decisions on investments, mergers, or acquisitions within the poultry sector.

Increased Revenue Potential for Producers:

• The expansion of production facilities, adoption of automation, and diversification into value-added products provide poultry producers with the ability to scale operations, increase production efficiency, and cater to a broader range of consumer needs, leading to higher revenue potential.

Strategic Expansion Opportunities for Retailers:

• Retailers can benefit from the increasing demand for poultry products by expanding their product offerings, both in-store and online. Stakeholders can tap into consumer preferences for convenience and health-conscious options by stocking processed, organic, and ready-to-eat poultry products.

Cost Efficiency for Supply Chain Participants:

• Poultry producers who adopt automated systems, improve waste management, and enhance production efficiency can benefit from reduced operational costs. This directly affects stakeholders in the supply chain, including logistics providers and distributors, who can work more efficiently with optimized operations.

Competitive Advantage for Innovators:

• Stakeholders who introduce innovative products such as organic or antibiotic-free poultry will enjoy a competitive edge in the market. Innovators can build brand loyalty by aligning their offerings with shifting consumer preferences for healthier and sustainable food options.

Increased Export Opportunities for Producers:

• Regional and international expansion presents export opportunities for local poultry producers. By entering neighboring markets or expanding into new regions like North Africa, stakeholders can diversify their revenue streams and strengthen their market presence.

Government Support and Policy Benefits:

• Local producers in the Middle East benefit from government initiatives, such as subsidies, tax incentives, and grants, aimed at boosting domestic production. This helps stakeholders within the poultry industry by lowering operational costs and increasing profitability.

Consumer Trust and Loyalty for Halal-certified Producers:

• Companies that focus on halal certification meet the cultural and religious needs of the region’s predominantly Muslim population, building consumer trust and loyalty. This can increase market share and consumer retention for stakeholders focused on halal offerings.

Sustainability and Long-Term Viability for Environmental Advocates:

• Stakeholders focused on adopting sustainable farming practices, reducing water usage, and enhancing waste management contribute to the environmental and social sustainability of the poultry industry. This can lead to long-term viability in a market increasingly influenced by eco-conscious consumers and regulatory pressures.

Innovation and Diversification for Business Growth:

• Through innovation in product offerings such as processed, ready-to-eat, and organic poultry, stakeholders can tap into evolving consumer needs. By diversifying product portfolios, stakeholders can create new revenue streams and minimize risks associated with market saturation.

At DigiRoads Research, we emphasize reliability by employing robust market estimation and data validation methodologies. Our insights are further enhanced by our proprietary data forecasting model, which projects market growth trends up to 2030. This forward-thinking approach ensures our analysis not only captures the current market landscape but also anticipates future developments, equipping stakeholders with actionable foresight.

We go a step further by offering an exhaustive set of regional and country-level data points, supplemented by over 60 detailed charts at no additional cost. This commitment to transparency and accessibility allows stakeholders to gain a deep understanding of the industry’s structural and operational dynamics. By providing exclusive and hard-to-access data, DigiRoads Research empowers businesses to make informed strategic decisions with confidence.

In essence, our methodology and data delivery foster a collaborative and data-driven decision-making environment, enabling businesses to navigate industry challenges and capitalize on opportunities effectively.

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Table of Contents

• INTRODUCTION

  • Market Overview
  • Years Considered for Study
  • Market Segmentation
  • Study Assumptions and Definitions
  • Market Scope

• RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

• MARKET OUTLOOK

  • Executive Summary
  • Market Snapshot

• Market Segments 

  • Form:
    • Canned, Fresh / Chilled, Frozen, Processed
  • Processed Types:
    • Deli Meats, Marinated/Tenders, Meatballs, Nuggets, Sausages, Other Processed Poultry
  • Country:
    • Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Rest of Middle East

• COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

  • Recent Strategies (Key Strategic Moves)
  • Market Share Analysis
  • Company Profiles
    • Al Watania Poultry
    • Almarai
    • Savola Group 

• MARKET DYNAMICS

  • Market Drivers
  • Market Challenges
  • Market Opportunities
  • Porter’s Five Forces’ Analysis
    • Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    • Bargaining Power of Buyers
    • Threat of New Entrant
    • Threat of Substitutes
    • Competitive Rivalry

• GLOSSARY OF PROMINENT SECONDARY SOURCES

• DISCLAIMER

• ABOUT US