Saudi Arabia Edible Meat Market Report | Market Size, Industry Analysis, Growth Opportunities, & Forecast (2025-2030)

Saudi Arabia Edible Meat Market Overview

The Saudi Arabia Edible Meat Market is on a steady growth trajectory, with an estimated market size of USD 7.27 billion in 2025 and projected to reach USD 8.27 billion by 2030, expanding at a CAGR of 2.61% during the forecast period 2025-2030. The Saudi Arabia Edible Meat Market is expected to experience significant growth between 2025 and 2030. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the market, covering key segments such as beef, mutton, poultry, and other meats. Poultry remains the dominant meat type in Saudi Arabia, with the highest consumption rates, driven by its affordability and high per capita consumption. Poultry’s market share is expected to maintain its stronghold, surpassing both beef and mutton during the forecast period.

Despite poultry’s dominance, beef is projected to be the fastest-growing segment, with a robust CAGR of 2.61% by value, fueled by increased demand from the expatriate population. The shift towards local production, supported by initiatives like the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP), is set to reduce dependency on imports and enhance food security. This report offers valuable insights into market trends, growth drivers, distribution channels, and key players in the Saudi Arabian edible meat industry.

With a focus on market forecasts, this report is essential for businesses and stakeholders looking to capitalize on opportunities in this evolving market.

Market Report Coverage:

The “Saudi Arabia Edible 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

The following assumptions and definitions have been considered to provide a clear and consistent framework for understanding the Saudi Arabia Edible Meat Market:

1. Meat refers to the flesh or other edible parts of an animal, primarily consumed by humans, and excludes any non-food uses. The market focuses exclusively on uncooked meat, with processed forms being categorized separately.
2. Poultry Meat (white meat) includes meats from domestically raised birds such as chicken, turkey, ducks, and geese, with chicken being the most consumed in Saudi Arabia.
3. Red Meat encompasses beef, lamb, goat, veal, and mutton, characterized by a red color when raw and a darker color when cooked. This market includes both domestically produced and imported red meats.
4. Other Meats include less commonly consumed varieties, such as camel, horse, and rabbit, which contribute to niche markets in the region.
5. Form categories include Canned, Fresh/Chilled, Frozen, and Processed meats, all of which are consumed through various distribution channels.
6. Distribution Channels are divided into Off-Trade (retail outlets like supermarkets and convenience stores) and On-trade (foodservice outlets like restaurants, hotels, and catering services).

These assumptions and definitions guide the analysis and projections for the market from 2025 to 2030, focusing on consumer trends, demand patterns, and industry growth.

Market Scope

The scope of the Saudi Arabia Edible Meat Market from 2025 to 2030 encompasses an in-depth analysis of various meat types, forms, and distribution channels. This report covers poultry, beef, mutton, and other meats such as camel, horse, and rabbit, highlighting their consumption trends, production, and market demand. The study further classifies meat forms into canned, fresh/chilled, frozen, and processed, reflecting how different forms influence consumer preferences and purchasing behaviors.

The report also examines the two main distribution channels: Off-Trade (including supermarkets, convenience stores, and online sales) and On-Trade (restaurants, hotels, and catering services). Key market drivers such as the growing demand for poultry, beef, and processed meats, and the expansion of domestic production driven by government initiatives like the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP) are analyzed.

This market scope aims to provide actionable insights, projections, and trends to help stakeholders navigate the evolving Saudi Arabian edible meat sector.

MARKET OUTLOOK

Executive Summary

The Saudi Arabia Edible Meat Market is expected to experience substantial growth between 2025 and 2030, driven by increasing consumption, changes in consumer preferences, and local production efforts. Poultry remains the dominant segment, accounting for the highest share of meat consumption in Saudi Arabia. This is attributed to its affordability, high per capita consumption rate, and religious restrictions on pork. With the country having the highest per capita chicken consumption globally at 50 kg annually, poultry is set to continue its growth trajectory. In 2020, local production accounted for 60% of domestic poultry consumption, indicating strong domestic production capabilities.

However, beef is predicted to be the fastest-growing segment during the forecast period, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.61%. The increase in demand is linked to Saudi Arabia’s growing expatriate population, which prefers beef, especially in slow-cooked preparations. The government’s efforts to reduce dependency on imports through initiatives like the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP) are expected to further boost local production.

The market is segmented by meat type (poultry, beef, mutton, and other meats), form (canned, fresh/chilled, frozen, and processed), and distribution channels (Off-trade, including convenience stores, online platforms, and supermarkets, and On-Trade, including restaurants and catering). These segments are expected to evolve in line with changing consumer behaviors, increasing focus on health-conscious choices, and the rise of processed and ready-to-eat meat products.

This report provides comprehensive insights into the Saudi Arabian edible meat market, offering stakeholders valuable information on market trends, production dynamics, and distribution networks, with projections and forecasts for the 2025-2030 period.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

The Saudi Arabia Edible Meat Market is moderately fragmented, with regional and multinational players competing fiercely for market share.

Key Market Players

• Almarai Company
• Hail Agricultural Development Company
• Al-Watania Poultry
• Saudi Arabian Meat Company (S.A.M.C)
• National Poultry Company (NPC)
• Al Kabeer Group
• Al-Dahel Food Company
• Tamimi Markets
• Albaik Food Systems
• Abbar & Zainy Co.

Market Share Analysis

The Saudi Arabia Edible Meat Market is predominantly dominated by poultry, which holds a significant share due to its affordability, cultural acceptance, and higher consumption rates compared to other meats. In 2021, poultry captured a market share larger than beef and mutton. Poultry is the most consumed meat in the country, benefiting from high per capita consumption, which is the highest globally at 50 kg annually.

Beef, while more expensive and traditionally less consumed due to religious and price constraints, is predicted to experience the fastest growth within the forecast period from 2025 to 2030. It is expected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.61% by value during this period, driven by increasing demand, especially among the expatriate population.

Mutton, while still significant in consumption, faces stiff competition from poultry and is less favored due to similar challenges related to price and availability. The introduction of the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP) is expected to reduce the country’s dependency on imported meats, boosting local production and contributing to a more balanced market share across the different meat segments.

Overall, poultry will continue to dominate the market, while beef and mutton are projected to grow steadily, aided by strategic initiatives to boost local production and reduce reliance on imports.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market Drivers and Key Innovations

The Saudi Arabia edible meat market is driven by several key factors, shaping its growth trajectory from 2025 to 2030.

Market Drivers:

1. High Consumption of Poultry: Poultry remains the most consumed meat in Saudi Arabia, driven by its affordability, availability, and religious acceptability. Saudi Arabia holds the highest per capita consumption of chicken globally, fueling demand.
2. Growing Population and Expats: The expanding population, along with a significant expatriate community, drives the demand for diverse meat types, particularly beef and poultry, boosting market growth.
3. Government Initiatives: The National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP), launched to increase local meat production and reduce import dependency, plays a crucial role in ensuring food security and stabilizing prices.
4. Increasing Disposable Income: As Saudi consumers’ income levels rise, there is an increase in the demand for premium meat, including higher-grade beef and lamb, which contributes to the market’s expansion.

Key Innovations:

1. Technological Advancements in Meat Processing: Innovations in meat preservation techniques, such as advanced freezing and packaging methods, are improving the shelf life and quality of meat products.
2. Sustainable Meat Production: There is an increasing focus on sustainability, with companies investing in cleaner production methods, such as more efficient feed and breeding practices for cattle and poultry.
3. Alternative Proteins: The growing interest in plant-based and lab-grown meat alternatives is leading to the development of innovative products catering to the changing dietary preferences of Saudi consumers.

Market Challenges

1. Dependence on Imports: Despite efforts to increase local production, a significant portion of Saudi Arabia’s meat supply is still imported. This dependence makes the market vulnerable to global supply chain disruptions and fluctuations in international meat prices.
2. Price Volatility: The prices of beef and mutton are subject to volatility due to factors like feed costs, transportation, and international trade policies. This affects consumer purchasing behavior, particularly in a price-sensitive market.
3. Religious and Cultural Restrictions: The religious restrictions on pork consumption limit the variety of meat available in the market, constraining opportunities for diversification and leading to higher competition among beef, poultry, and other permissible meats.
4. Environmental Concerns: The environmental impact of livestock farming, including water usage and carbon emissions, is a growing concern. Saudi Arabia’s harsh climate further exacerbates challenges related to sustainability in meat production.
5. Health and Nutrition Awareness: As health consciousness rises among consumers, there is increasing demand for leaner meat and alternatives to traditional meat products. This could impact demand for higher-fat meats like beef and mutton, while pushing for healthier options.
6. Labor Shortages: The meat industry faces challenges in sourcing skilled labor, particularly in meat processing and butchery, which can affect production efficiency and quality standards.
7. Food Safety and Hygiene Regulations: Strict regulations on meat safety and hygiene are essential, but maintaining high standards in processing and distribution remains a challenge for both local and imported meats.

Market Opportunities

1. Expansion of Local Production: With initiatives like the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP), there is an opportunity to reduce reliance on meat imports by increasing local production. This can create opportunities for local producers to meet domestic demand and reduce food security risks.
2. Growing Demand for Beef: The increasing expat population and the rising preference for premium meat products provide an opportunity for beef consumption to grow. Beef is expected to be the fastest-growing segment in the Saudi Arabian edible meat market.
3. Poultry Dominance: Poultry remains the most consumed meat in Saudi Arabia, and with high per capita consumption rates, there are significant opportunities for poultry producers to expand. Additionally, poultry’s affordability compared to beef and mutton opens growth avenues, especially in the processed and frozen forms.
4. Health-Conscious Consumer Trends: As consumers become more health-conscious, there is an opportunity to tap into demand for leaner meats and healthier alternatives, such as organic or antibiotic-free poultry and beef, as well as plant-based meat substitutes.
5. Rise in Halal Meat Demand: The growing Muslim population worldwide, coupled with the demand for halal-certified meat, presents an opportunity to expand both domestically and in international markets by offering certified halal products.
6. E-commerce and Online Sales: The growth of online shopping platforms and convenience stores presents a significant opportunity to reach a broader consumer base for both fresh and processed meats. E-commerce has become an increasingly popular channel for meat sales.
7. Technological Advancements in Meat Processing: Investment in modern meat processing technologies can enhance product quality, improve efficiency, and offer value-added products, such as ready-to-eat or marinated meat, catering to the convenience-oriented consumer.
8. Sustainability and Eco-friendly Meat Production: With growing concerns over sustainability, there is a market opportunity for eco-friendly meat production practices, such as reduced carbon footprint, ethical farming practices, and packaging innovations.

RECENT STRATEGIES & DEVELOPMENTS IN THE MARKET

Increase in Local Meat Production:

• Saudi Arabia launched the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP) to boost local meat production, aiming to meet 85% of domestic demand by 2030.
• Local poultry production accounted for 60% of domestic consumption in 2020, with further expansion plans.

Focus on Beef Segment Growth:

• Beef is forecasted to be the fastest-growing edible meat segment, with a projected CAGR of 2.61% by value from 2025 to 2030.
• The demand is driven by the growing expat population and a preference for premium meat products, with investment in domestic beef production.

Expansion of Halal Meat Offerings:

• Producers are expanding halal-certified meat production to cater to the growing global demand for halal meat, positioning Saudi Arabia as a key player in the market.
• Increased meat exports are expected to tap into global halal demand, especially in Asia and the Middle East.

Advancement in Meat Processing Technologies:

• Investment in modern processing facilities for poultry and red meats is improving production efficiency and product quality.
• The introduction of advanced processing techniques, such as retort packaging, enhances shelf life and meets consumer health-conscious trends.

Sustainability and Environmental Concerns:

• Saudi Arabia is adopting sustainable meat production practices, focusing on reducing environmental footprints through improved farming and livestock management.
• Companies are exploring plant-based and eco-friendly alternatives to meet growing consumer demand for sustainable protein sources.

Online Retail and E-Commerce Growth:

• The rise in online food retail platforms and delivery services has increased access to meat products, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Major retailers are capitalizing on e-commerce channels to offer meat delivery services, boosting market accessibility.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships:

• International partnerships with meat suppliers and processing companies are helping secure high-quality meat imports while expanding local production capacity.
• These collaborations ensure efficient meeting of increasing domestic and export demands.

Government Regulations and Initiatives:

• The government is investing in specialized manufacturing clusters for meat processing to improve food security and local meat availability.
• Ambitious targets for self-sufficiency in meat production by 2030 aim to make Saudi Arabia a regional food hub.

KEY BENEFITS FOR STAKEHOLDERS

For Meat Producers:

• Access to a growing consumer base with increasing demand for poultry and beef.
• Opportunities for local production growth through government initiatives like the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP).
• Ability to reduce dependency on imports by tapping into the local meat processing and production markets.

For Retailers:

• Expansion of consumer base through e-commerce and online retail platforms, improving market reach.
• Opportunities to offer a variety of meat forms (fresh, frozen, canned) to cater to diverse consumer preferences.
• Potential to tap into the growing halal meat market for both local and export needs.

For Exporters:

• Saudi Arabia’s strategic location provides access to global halal meat markets, especially in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
• Government support for improving meat production efficiency and meeting international standards for exports.

For Consumers:

• Increased availability of locally produced and processed meats, enhancing food security.
• Access to a wider range of meat products, including premium and sustainable options.
• Improved affordability of meat due to increased local production and reduced import dependency.

For Investors:

• Growing demand for high-quality meat products presents significant investment opportunities in production, processing, and retail.
• Supportive government policies aimed at developing the domestic meat industry create a favorable investment environment.
• Potential for high returns driven by the increasing expat population and meat consumption growth in the region.

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 
  • By Type:
    • Beef, Mutton, Poultry, Other Meat
  • By Form:
    • Canned, Fresh / Chilled, Frozen, Processed
  • By Distribution Channel:
    • Off-trade (Convenience Stores, Online Channels, Supermarkets and Hypermarkets, Others), On-Trade

• COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

• Recent Strategies (Key Strategic Moves)
• Market Share Analysis
• Company Profiles
  • Almarai Company
  • Hail Agricultural Development Company
  • Al-Watania Poultry
  • Saudi Arabian Meat Company (S.A.M.C)
  • National Poultry Company (NPC)
  • Al Kabeer Group
  • Al-Dahel Food Company
  • Tamimi Markets
  • Albaik Food Systems
  • Abbar & Zainy Co.

• 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