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

UAE Edible Meat Market Overview

The UAE Edible Meat Market is poised for steady growth, with an estimated market size of USD 2.83 billion in 2025, and is projected to reach USD 3.21 billion by 2030, expanding at a CAGR of 2.59% during the forecast period 2025-2030. The UAE Edible Meat Market is anticipated to experience substantial growth from 2025 to 2030, as evolving consumer preferences and an increasing focus on health and nutrition drive demand. Poultry remains the dominant segment in the market due to its affordability, high protein content, and continued popularity. Mutton and beef also play significant roles, with mutton sales growing rapidly from 2025 to 2030. Fresh beef is the most consumed form of beef in the UAE, representing over 50% of the market share, with local supermarkets and butcher shops being primary distribution channels.

This market is segmented by type, including beef, mutton, poultry, and other meats, while the forms include fresh, chilled, frozen, and processed meat. Distribution channels are divided into off-trade (supermarkets, online platforms) and on-trade (restaurants, hotels, catering). As consumer preferences shift toward locally produced, fresh meat options, the market is expected to see a surge in local production to meet growing demands. The report provides a comprehensive analysis of market trends, key players, and opportunities within the UAE edible meat sector for the forecast period.

Market Report Coverage:

The “UAE 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

This market study on the UAE Edible Meat Market is based on the following key assumptions and definitions:

1. Market Coverage: The study focuses on uncooked meat products that are sold for human consumption, including beef, mutton, poultry, and other meat types. Processed meats are considered as a separate form within the study, as they undergo treatments like curing, smoking, or freezing to extend shelf life.
2. Type of Meat: The report includes all varieties of edible meat, categorized into beef, mutton, poultry, and other meats like camel and horse. The consumption patterns and growth trends of these meat types are analyzed based on market data.
3. Form of Meat: The study considers different forms in which meat is sold: canned, fresh/chilled, frozen, and processed. Each form’s demand and market share are evaluated separately to understand consumer preferences and trends.
4. Distribution Channels: Meat products are distributed through various channels, including off-trade (supermarkets, online platforms, convenience stores) and on-trade (restaurants, hotels, catering). This segmentation helps in understanding how the supply chain impacts meat consumption in the UAE.
5. Forecast Period: The market analysis and projections are based on data from 2025 to 2030, focusing on consumer behavior, market trends, and economic factors shaping the future of the UAE’s edible meat market.

Market Scope

The scope of this report on the UAE Edible Meat Market encompasses an in-depth analysis of meat consumption trends, market dynamics, and growth projections from 2025 to 2030. The report covers key meat types, including beef, mutton, poultry, and other meats such as camel and horse. It explores various forms of meat products, including canned, fresh/chilled, frozen, and processed, and provides insights into consumer preferences and the demand for each form. Additionally, the study examines the distribution channels through which meat products reach consumers, focusing on off-trade (supermarkets, online channels, convenience stores) and on-trade (restaurants, hotels, catering services).

The analysis also delves into the factors driving market growth, including price trends, local production capabilities, and changing consumer preferences toward healthier and sustainable meat choices. By offering forecasts and a comprehensive view of the market landscape, this report provides valuable insights for stakeholders looking to understand the future of the edible meat sector in the UAE.

MARKET OUTLOOK

Executive Summary

The UAE Edible Meat Market is poised for significant growth between 2025 and 2030, driven by changing consumer preferences, rising demand for high-quality proteins, and shifting dietary habits. The market is segmented by meat type, including beef, mutton, poultry, and other meats like camel and horse. Among these, poultry remains the most consumed meat due to its affordability, versatility, and nutritional benefits. Despite global food price hikes, poultry has maintained its popularity, with local production efforts expected to grow to meet increasing demand, especially for fresh and chilled varieties.

Mutton, the second most consumed meat in the UAE, is experiencing rapid market expansion, particularly in the premium segment, due to its taste, price points, and perception as a staple meat in the region. The UAE is a significant importer of mutton, sourcing primarily from Australia, New Zealand, and India. Beef, a preferred meat for both residents and tourists, plays a crucial role in traditional Arabic and continental cuisines. The demand for fresh beef remains dominant, covering a major portion of the beef market share as of 2025. However, frozen and processed beef varieties are witnessing a rise in demand.

In terms of product forms, fresh/chilled meats continue to lead the market, followed by frozen, processed, and canned varieties. The distribution channels for edible meat are split between off-trade outlets like supermarkets, hypermarkets, and online channels, and on-trade outlets, such as hotels, restaurants, and catering services. The market is also influenced by factors such as health-conscious consumer behavior, price fluctuations, and local production capabilities, providing a robust environment for growth and innovation in the edible meat industry in the UAE.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

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

Key Market Players

• Al Islami Foods
• Al Kabeer Group
• Al Safa Foods
• Al Ain Farms
• Emirates Snack Foods
• American Farms
• Alokozay Group of Companies
• National Food Products Company (NFPC)
• Al-Watania Poultry
• JBS Foods
• Hilal Foods
• Sharjah Co-operative Society
• Magrabi Poultry
• Pioneer Foods
• Dawood Trading & Contracting

Market Share Analysis

The UAE edible meat market is highly competitive, with several major players dominating the poultry, beef, and mutton segments. Among these, poultry holds the largest market share due to its affordability, high protein content, and continued popularity among UAE residents and tourists. Poultry meat is particularly favored for its versatility and cost-effectiveness, with local production expected to increase to meet the rising demand for fresh varieties over imported frozen options.

Mutton, although a secondary option compared to poultry, has been experiencing steady growth. The UAE is one of the largest importers of mutton, sourcing it from countries like Australia, New Zealand, and India. The demand for mutton is driven by cultural preferences and its role in traditional Arabic dishes.

Beef holds a significant market share. The demand for beef is supported by local culinary practices, which incorporate beef in both traditional Arabic and continental dishes.

The market share distribution is influenced by factors such as consumer preferences, pricing trends, and increasing awareness around health, with consumers gradually shifting towards fresh and locally produced options. Key players, including Al Islami Foods, Al Kabeer Group, and Al Safa Foods, maintain substantial market share by providing a diverse range of meat products to cater to changing consumer demands.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market Drivers and Key Innovations

The UAE edible meat market is experiencing substantial growth, driven by several key factors. One of the primary drivers is the rising demand for high-protein diets, particularly poultry, which continues to be the most consumed meat in the UAE due to its affordability, nutritional benefits, and versatility in culinary applications. Poultry’s position as a source of lean protein and its affordability compared to other meats such as beef and mutton makes it a popular choice, especially amidst global food price increases. Additionally, the increasing preference for locally produced meat over imported frozen products is fueling the expansion of domestic poultry production to meet consumer demands for fresh meat.

Another significant driver is the growing population of expatriates and tourists in the UAE, who bring diverse culinary preferences and demand for high-quality meat products, including beef and mutton. The country’s vibrant food service sector, encompassing hotels, restaurants, and catering services (HoReCa), is also expanding the market for premium meats used in traditional Arabic and continental dishes.

Key innovations are also shaping the market. Technological advancements in meat processing and packaging, such as retort packaging and ready-to-eat (RTE) meals, have enhanced convenience and shelf life, catering to modern consumer preferences for convenience and freshness. Furthermore, the development of alternative meat products, including plant-based substitutes and lab-grown meat, is slowly gaining traction in the UAE, driven by increasing health consciousness and environmental concerns. These innovations are expected to further diversify the market and offer consumers more options in the coming years.

Market Challenges

1. Price Volatility: Fluctuations in meat prices, driven by global supply chain disruptions, trade regulations, and the cost of raw materials, pose a challenge for both consumers and producers. This affects affordability and market stability.
2. Health Concerns: Increasing awareness about the health risks associated with excessive consumption of red meats like beef and mutton, such as links to heart disease and other health conditions, is driving consumers towards healthier alternatives.
3. Import Dependency: The UAE’s reliance on meat imports, particularly mutton and beef from countries like Australia, New Zealand, and India, makes the market vulnerable to geopolitical tensions, trade restrictions, and supply chain disruptions.
4. Regulatory Compliance: Strict food safety regulations and certifications, such as halal certification, require continuous compliance from meat producers and suppliers, which can be costly and time-consuming.
5. Sustainability and Environmental Concerns: The environmental impact of meat production, including greenhouse gas emissions and resource consumption, is gaining attention. This is leading to greater demand for sustainable meat alternatives, which poses a challenge for traditional meat producers.
6. Cultural Preferences and Dietary Shifts: Changing consumer preferences, particularly among younger generations and expatriates, who are adopting plant-based diets or reducing meat consumption for ethical and environmental reasons, present challenges to traditional meat consumption patterns.
7. Supply Chain Disruptions: COVID-19 and other global disruptions have revealed vulnerabilities in meat supply chains, particularly in relation to frozen and processed meat imports, affecting market availability and pricing.

Market Opportunities

1. Rising Demand for Premium Meat Products: There is an increasing consumer preference for high-quality, premium meat products, such as grass-fed beef, organic poultry, and Wagyu beef. This trend offers growth opportunities for premium meat suppliers.
2. Growing Meat Substitutes and Plant-Based Alternatives: With increasing awareness about sustainability and health, the demand for plant-based meat alternatives (such as Quorn and plant-based burgers) is growing. This creates an opportunity for both traditional meat producers and new entrants in the plant-based sector.
3. Local Meat Production Expansion: The UAE government’s push for self-sufficiency and local production offers opportunities for local meat producers to meet the increasing demand. Investment in local farming, slaughterhouses, and processing units could reduce reliance on imports.
4. Halal Meat Market: The UAE’s position as a hub for the Muslim population provides a steady demand for halal-certified meats. Expanding halal product offerings, especially for mutton, beef, and chicken, can attract a larger consumer base in both domestic and international markets.
5. Online Meat Sales Growth: The rise of e-commerce platforms presents a significant opportunity for online sales of fresh, frozen, and processed meats. Convenience-driven consumers are increasingly turning to online channels for their meat purchases.
6. Health-Conscious Consumer Segment: As health awareness increases, consumers are more inclined towards lean meat options like poultry and cuts with lower fat content. This trend opens doors for manufacturers to offer healthier meat alternatives with reduced sodium, fat, and additives.
7. Sustainable and Ethical Meat Production: Growing concerns about sustainability provide an opportunity for producers who can adopt eco-friendly practices, such as sustainable farming, resource-efficient production, and ethical treatment of animals, to cater to the environmentally conscious segment of the market.

RECENT STRATEGIES & DEVELOPMENTS IN THE MARKET

Expansion of Local Meat Production:

• The UAE government has been promoting local meat production to reduce dependency on imports. Initiatives like the establishment of the Al Dhaid Slaughterhouse in Sharjah are expected to increase local beef and mutton production by 2025, boosting self-sufficiency.
• Data Point: Local poultry production is projected to increase manifold from 2025 to 2030 as part of the UAE’s food security strategy.

Focus on Halal Meat Certifications:

• Meat producers are increasingly focusing on offering halal-certified products to cater to both local and international markets. This strategy is vital, given the UAE’s significant Muslim population.
• Data Point: The global demand for halal meat is also expected to grow rapidly from 2025-2030, driving investments in halal-certified processing and slaughtering facilities in the UAE.

Diversification into Plant-Based and Alternative Meats:

• Companies are diversifying product portfolios by investing in plant-based alternatives to cater to the growing demand for sustainable and health-conscious food choices.
• Data Point: The plant-based meat market in the UAE is expected to grow hugely per year between 2025 and 2030, with key players like Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat entering the UAE market.

Improvement in Cold Chain Logistics:

• There is a significant focus on improving cold chain logistics to extend the shelf life and reduce food waste in the frozen and processed meat segments.
• Data Point: The UAE’s cold chain market is expected to grow around 10% annually from 2025 to 2030, with new infrastructure projects being undertaken by logistics companies like Agility.

E-commerce Growth in Meat Distribution:

• With the rise of online grocery shopping, meat distributors and retailers are enhancing their digital presence to cater to the growing demand for home delivery services.
• Data Point: The online meat sales market in the UAE is expected to expand annually from 2025 to 2030, driven by platforms like Carrefour and Talabat.

Sustainability Initiatives and Ethical Practices:

• Meat producers are increasingly focusing on sustainability by adopting resource-efficient production practices and reducing carbon footprints. Companies like Al Ain Farms have integrated renewable energy sources in their production processes.
• Data Point: Sustainable practices in meat production could reduce operational costs by up to 15% annually, with consumers willing to pay a premium for ethically produced meats.

Partnerships and Mergers in the Meat Industry:

• Strategic partnerships and mergers are becoming common as players aim to strengthen their market position. For example, the merger of Al Islami Foods with local food companies to expand market reach.
• Data Point: The meat industry in the UAE has witnessed an increase in mergers and acquisitions, with over 5 major transactions occurring between 2025-2030 to boost market share and operational efficiency.

KEY BENEFITS FOR STAKEHOLDERS

Revenue Growth:For Meat Producers:

• Market Expansion Opportunities: Local producers can tap into a growing demand for both traditional and alternative meat products, including plant-based options, by diversifying their offerings.
• Data Point: The UAE’s plant-based meat market is expected to grow at a major CAGR from 2025 to 2030, providing a new revenue stream for meat producers.

For Retailers & Distributors:

• Increased Consumer Demand: Retailers and distributors will benefit from the rising demand for locally produced and halal-certified meat, as well as the growing preference for online grocery shopping.
• Data Point: Online meat sales are projected to increase hugely annually between 2025 and 2030, creating opportunities for e-commerce platforms to expand their market share.

For Government Bodies & Regulators:

• Food Security and Sustainability: The focus on increasing local production and improving cold chain logistics ensures that the UAE’s food security goals are met while promoting sustainability.
• Data Point: Local production of poultry is expected to increase from 2025 to 2030, supporting the UAE’s goal of reducing dependency on imports.

For Investors:

• High Growth Potential: The UAE’s edible meat market, especially in poultry, mutton, and plant-based alternatives, presents a high-growth opportunity with a huge forecasted CAGR from 2025-2030 for halal meat.
• Data Point: The global halal meat market is expected to cross USD 3 trillion by 2030, providing a significant growth opportunity for investors in the UAE market.

For Consumers:

• Diverse Product Offerings: Consumers will benefit from a wider selection of meat products, including sustainable, halal-certified, and plant-based alternatives, meeting their growing preference for health-conscious and ethically produced foods.
• Data Point: Consumer demand for sustainable and plant-based meats is expected to rise in the plant-based sector by 2030.

For Logistics and Cold Chain Companies:

• Expansion in Infrastructure: With the UAE’s growing demand for frozen and processed meats, logistics companies can benefit from expanded cold chain infrastructure and the need for efficient distribution networks.
• Data Point: The cold chain logistics market in the UAE is projected to grow by significant margin annually from 2025 to 2030, enhancing opportunities for logistics companies in the region.

For Foodservice Providers:

• Increased Demand in HoReCa Sector: The hospitality and restaurant sector will see a growing need for premium meats, particularly beef and mutton, to cater to the local and international consumer base.
• Data Point: The HoReCa (Hotels, Restaurants, and Cafes) segment in the UAE is expected to grow from 2025 to 2030, offering opportunities for suppliers and food service providers.

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

• COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

• Recent Strategies (Key Strategic Moves)
• Market Share Analysis
• Company Profiles
  • Al Islami Foods
  • Al Kabeer Group
  • Al Safa Foods
  • Al Ain Farms
  • Emirates Snack Foods
  • American Farms
  • Alokozay Group of Companies
  • National Food Products Company (NFPC)
  • Al-Watania Poultry
  • JBS Foods
  • Hilal Foods
  • Sharjah Co-operative Society
  • Magrabi Poultry
  • Pioneer Foods
  • Dawood Trading & Contracting

• 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