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

Saudi Arabia Seafood Market Overview

The Saudi Arabia Seafood Market is poised for significant growth, with an estimated market size of USD 1.49 billion in 2025, and is forecasted to reach USD 1.76 billion by 2030, expanding at a steady CAGR of 3.31% during the forecast period 2025-2030. The Saudi Arabia Seafood Market report offers an in-depth analysis of the industry’s current trends, growth drivers, and future prospects from 2025 to 2030. It provides valuable insights into key segments, including fish, shrimp, and other seafood, with detailed breakdowns by product form (canned, fresh/chilled, frozen, processed) and distribution channels (off-trade, on-trade). The report highlights the significant growth in seafood consumption driven by a rising population, health-conscious lifestyles, and increasing domestic seafood production.

Key drivers of the market include the growing demand for sustainably farmed shrimp, the country’s investment in sustainable fishing practices, and a robust supply chain with key imports from Thailand, the UAE, and other regions. The seafood market’s expansion is also fueled by advancements in aquaculture and government initiatives aimed at increasing local production. With detailed forecasts, market shares, and competitive dynamics, this report is essential for stakeholders looking to understand and capitalize on opportunities in Saudi Arabia’s seafood sector.

This comprehensive market analysis is crucial for businesses, investors, and policymakers looking to navigate the evolving seafood market landscape in Saudi Arabia.

Market Report Coverage:

The “Saudi Arabia Seafood 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 study on the Saudi Arabia Seafood Market follows several key assumptions and definitions to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the analysis. The market data is based on a combination of primary and secondary research, including expert insights and historical data from various sources. The assumptions are structured to reflect realistic market scenarios, such as a consistent annual growth rate for each segment and the impact of government policies on domestic production. The forecast period is set from 2025 to 2030, considering potential market trends, consumer preferences, and technological advancements in seafood production.

Definitions:

1. Frozen/Canned Seafood: Seafood products that are preserved by freezing or canning to maintain freshness and extend shelf life.
2. Processed Seafood: Seafood that has undergone preservation processes such as curing, salting, smoking, or drying.
3. Seafood: A broad category encompassing all marine species consumed as food, including fish and shellfish.
4. Shrimp: A type of crustacean characterized by its elongated body and slender abdomen, primarily consumed as seafood.
5. Distribution Channels: Refers to both off-trade (retail stores, convenience stores, supermarkets, online platforms) and on-trade (food service, restaurants, etc.) methods of selling seafood.

Market Scope

The scope of the Saudi Arabia Seafood Market report encompasses a detailed analysis of the seafood industry within the Kingdom, focusing on key segments, trends, and growth drivers from 2025 to 2030. The study covers various seafood types, including fish, shrimp, and other seafood, as well as the forms in which they are sold, such as frozen, canned, fresh/chilled, and processed. Additionally, the report analyzes the market through different distribution channels, including off-trade (supermarkets, convenience stores, online platforms) and on-trade (foodservice, restaurants).

The market scope also considers domestic production, government initiatives, and the growing consumer demand for sustainably sourced seafood. The report highlights the rise of shrimp as a fast-growing segment and examines regional and international trade influences. The forecast period includes both historical analysis and projections, providing a comprehensive view of the Saudi seafood market’s potential for growth, challenges, and evolving consumer preferences.

MARKET OUTLOOK

Executive Summary

The Saudi Arabia Seafood Market has experienced significant growth, driven by an increase in domestic production, consumer demand, and government initiatives. In 2022, Saudi Arabia’s domestic seafood production reached 399.5 million metric tons, an increase of 15 million metric tons compared to 2018, supported by investments in sustainable fishing practices. Fish is the most consumed seafood, with sales growing rapidly between 2025 and 2030. The growing population and rising health-consciousness have increased domestic consumption, with fish per capita crossing 5 kg in 2024.

The shrimp segment is the fastest-growing within the market, projected to grow with a high CAGR during the 2025-2030 forecast period. This growth is fueled by the growing consumer preference for sustainably farmed shrimp, reasonable prices, and large-scale shrimp cultivation in the Tabuk region, one of the Middle East’s largest aquaculture programs.

The market is segmented by type (fish, shrimp, other seafood), form (frozen, canned, fresh/chilled, processed), and distribution channel (off-trade, on-trade). Off-trade sales, including supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, and online platforms, dominate, with significant growth in online channels due to shifting consumer buying habits.

Government efforts to boost domestic production and the growing demand for seafood in Saudi Arabia, combined with sustainable practices and technological advancements, are set to fuel market expansion in the coming years. However, challenges such as disease outbreaks and the need for continuous innovation in processing and packaging remain. Overall, the Saudi Arabian seafood market presents promising growth opportunities in the forecast period.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

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

Key Market Players

• Saudi Fisheries Company (SFC)
• Al Khorayef Group
• Almarai Company
• Red Sea Farms
• National Aquaculture Group (NAQUA)
• Saudi Fish Co.
• Al-Jazeera Fisheries
• Badr Al Samaa Group
• Bahri & Mazroei Group
• Al-Daem Al-Khaleej Fishery

Market Share Analysis

The market share analysis of the Saudi Arabia seafood market reveals a dynamic and competitive landscape, driven by both domestic production and imports. Fish remains the dominant category in terms of both consumption and market share, accounting for a significant portion of the total seafood market value. The sales of fish grew significantly from 2023 to 2024, largely fueled by increasing domestic consumption, supported by health-conscious dietary preferences among the population.

Shrimp, however, is the fastest-growing segment. The demand for sustainably farmed shrimp is rising, supported by domestic aquaculture projects in regions like Tabuk. This has allowed Saudi Arabia to scale up shrimp production on a commercial scale, further contributing to its growth in the market share.

Frozen and processed seafood forms a significant portion of the market, benefiting from advances in preservation technologies. Distribution channels also play a pivotal role in market segmentation, with off-trade channels (such as supermarkets and hypermarkets) leading in volume and value share, while online and convenience stores are witnessing rising sales.

The Saudi government’s focus on enhancing domestic production through sustainable practices also contributes to shaping market dynamics, ensuring steady growth across various seafood categories. The competitive market share is continuously evolving with these trends.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market Drivers and Key Innovations

The Saudi Arabia seafood market is witnessing strong growth due to several key drivers and innovations.

Market Drivers:

1. Increasing Health Consciousness: As consumers become more health-conscious, the demand for seafood, particularly fish and shrimp, has surged. Seafood is seen as a healthier protein source due to its low-fat content and high omega-3 fatty acids, driving its popularity among the Saudi population.
2. Government Support for Aquaculture: The Saudi government is investing heavily in sustainable fishing and aquaculture, particularly shrimp farming. The Tabuk region’s closed-system shrimp farming program is one of the largest in the Middle East, significantly boosting domestic shrimp production. This initiative helps reduce dependence on imports, supporting market growth.
3. Rising Domestic Consumption: As the population grows and lifestyles shift toward healthier diets, the per capita consumption of seafood has increased. In particular, fish consumption has seen steady growth from 2023 to 2024.

Key Innovations:

1. Sustainable Farming Techniques: The development of advanced, environmentally-friendly aquaculture practices, such as the closed farming systems used for shrimp in Tabuk, is an innovation helping Saudi Arabia increase domestic seafood production while ensuring sustainability.
2. Frozen and Processed Seafood Technologies: Advances in freezing and processing methods have significantly extended the shelf life of seafood products, allowing for greater market reach and consumer accessibility.
3. E-commerce and Online Sales Channels: With the rise of digital platforms, online seafood sales are rapidly growing, providing consumers with easy access to fresh and frozen seafood products. This trend is also supported by enhanced packaging technologies ensuring product freshness.

Market Challenges

1. Environmental Sustainability Issues: Overfishing, water pollution, and habitat destruction are significant challenges that threaten the long-term sustainability of seafood production. Ensuring that fishing practices are sustainable is crucial to maintaining healthy seafood stocks.
2. Dependency on Imports: Despite growth in domestic production, Saudi Arabia still relies heavily on seafood imports, particularly from countries like Thailand, the UAE, and Norway. This reliance makes the market vulnerable to supply chain disruptions and price fluctuations.
3. Disease in Aquaculture: Shrimp and other farmed seafood are susceptible to diseases such as Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease (AHPND), which can result in high mortality rates and disrupt production, especially in shrimp farming.
4. Fluctuating Prices: Prices of seafood can be volatile due to various factors, including climate change, supply chain issues, and global trade dynamics. This volatility can impact market stability and profitability.
5. Consumer Preferences and Awareness: While health consciousness is rising, a lack of awareness about the benefits of seafood over other meats can limit market growth. Additionally, traditional dietary habits may hinder the widespread acceptance of seafood.
6. Regulatory Challenges: Ensuring compliance with food safety standards, both for domestically produced and imported seafood, can be a challenge. Stringent regulations related to seafood imports and exports may lead to delays and increased operational costs.

Market Opportunities

1. Growth in Domestic Aquaculture: With increased investment in sustainable aquaculture practices, there is significant potential for expanding domestic seafood production, especially in shrimp farming, where Saudi Arabia has already established large-scale operations.
2. Rising Health Consciousness: The growing trend towards healthier eating habits offers an opportunity to promote seafood as a lean and nutritious protein source. Educating consumers about the health benefits of seafood can increase demand.
3. Expansion of Online and Convenience Store Channels: The rising popularity of online shopping and convenience stores presents an opportunity to expand seafood distribution channels. More consumers are looking for convenient, ready-to-eat, or frozen seafood options available through e-commerce and retail outlets.
4. Export Potential: As domestic production increases, there is an opportunity for Saudi Arabia to boost seafood exports to neighboring regions and international markets, particularly with high-quality frozen and processed seafood products.
5. Sustainability Demand: Growing demand for sustainably sourced seafood opens up opportunities for Saudi producers to cater to environmentally conscious consumers. Implementing eco-friendly fishing practices and certifications can differentiate products in the market.
6. Technological Advancements in Seafood Processing: Innovations in seafood processing technologies, such as packaging improvements, can enhance the shelf-life and quality of products, meeting the demand for longer-lasting seafood products.
7. Tourism and Hospitality Sector Growth: The expansion of the tourism and hospitality industries in Saudi Arabia provides an opportunity for increased seafood consumption through restaurants, hotels, and catering services.

RECENT STRATEGIES & DEVELOPMENTS IN THE MARKET

Increased Government Investment in Aquaculture:

• The Saudi government is heavily investing in sustainable aquaculture, particularly in shrimp farming in the Tabuk region. The region’s closed system for shrimp farming is one of the largest in the Middle East. This initiative aims to increase domestic production and reduce reliance on imports.

Rising Domestic Production:

• Saudi Arabia’s domestic seafood production reached 399.5 million metric tons in 2022, showing an increase of 15 million metric tons from 2018. The government aims to boost local seafood supply to cater to the rising demand.

Focus on Sustainability:

• As consumer demand for sustainably farmed seafood increases, local producers are focusing on eco-friendly practices. The country is embracing more sustainable fishing methods and certifications to align with global sustainability trends.

Expansion of Online and Retail Channels:

• The increasing preference for e-commerce and convenience store shopping has led to growth in online seafood sales. Retail giants and seafood distributors are capitalizing on this trend by expanding online sales platforms for frozen, canned, and fresh seafood products.

Investment in Processing Technology:

• Seafood processing companies are focusing on improving processing technology to enhance product quality and shelf-life. This includes the introduction of advanced packaging solutions to extend freshness and reduce waste.

Partnerships and Export Initiatives:

• Saudi Arabia is exploring new international markets for seafood exports, particularly in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region and beyond. Partnerships with global suppliers and distributors are enabling the market to meet the export potential.

Growing Demand for Shrimp:

• Shrimp has become the fastest-growing segment of the market during the 2025-2030 forecast period. The country’s shrimp production in inland waters is expanding to meet this demand, particularly for sustainably farmed shrimp.

Enhancing the Hospitality and Foodservice Sector:

• The expansion of the tourism sector in Saudi Arabia is driving demand for seafood in hotels, restaurants, and catering services. This trend is particularly prominent in urban areas and newly developed resorts, contributing to increased seafood consumption.

KEY BENEFITS FOR STAKEHOLDERS

Increased Market Opportunities:

• Stakeholders, including suppliers, producers, and distributors, benefit from a growing market fueled by increasing demand for seafood, particularly fish and shrimp. This growth offers opportunities for expansion in both domestic and international markets.

Government Support for Local Production:

• Government initiatives to boost domestic seafood production and promote sustainable practices present advantages for local stakeholders. This includes subsidies, investments in infrastructure, and research into innovative aquaculture methods, particularly for shrimp farming.

Rising Consumer Preference for Healthy Foods:

• The growing consumer shift toward healthier and sustainable diets creates a favorable environment for seafood stakeholders. As seafood is perceived as a healthy protein source, demand for both fresh and processed seafood continues to rise.

Opportunities in E-commerce and Retail Expansion:

• As the Saudi population increasingly turns to online shopping and convenience stores, stakeholders can capitalize on the expanding retail and e-commerce channels to distribute seafood products. This provides a more direct route to consumers, especially in urban areas.

Favorable Export Conditions:

• For exporters, the growing interest in Saudi seafood in international markets offers opportunities for expansion. The GCC region and other international markets are key opportunities for export, providing a competitive advantage for Saudi producers.

Technological Advancements in Processing:

• Technological improvements in seafood processing, including packaging innovations and sustainability certifications, allow stakeholders to enhance product quality, extend shelf life, and meet consumer demands for premium, eco-friendly products.

Growth in the Foodservice Sector:

• With the expansion of the foodservice sector, particularly in hotels, restaurants, and catering services, stakeholders have access to a growing market for bulk seafood supplies. This trend is especially driven by Saudi Arabia’s tourism and hospitality growth.

Sustainability Credentials:

• Stakeholders investing in sustainable seafood production and environmentally friendly practices can enhance their brand image. This is particularly beneficial as consumers and global markets increasingly prioritize sustainability, offering a competitive edge to those who align with eco-conscious trends.

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.

Contact Us For More Inquiry. 

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: 
    • Fish, Shrimp, Other Seafood
  • By Form: 
    • Canned, Fresh/Chilled, Frozen, Processed
  • By Distribution Channel: 
    • Off-Trade (Convenience Stores, Online Channel, Supermarkets & Hypermarkets, Others), On-Trade

• COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

• Recent Strategies (Key Strategic Moves)
• Market Share Analysis
• Company Profiles
  • Saudi Fisheries Company (SFC)
  • Al Khorayef Group
  • Almarai Company
  • Red Sea Farms
  • National Aquaculture Group (NAQUA)
  • Saudi Fish Co.
  • Al-Jazeera Fisheries
  • Badr Al Samaa Group
  • Bahri & Mazroei Group
  • Al-Daem Al-Khaleej Fishery

• 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